Kumari Puja 2024 is on Friday, October 11. Also known as Kanya Puja, it is a significant Hindu ritual observed on Durga Ashtami that involves the worship of young prepubescent girls as a manifestation of the divine feminine energy or Shakti. The word Kumari means 'virgin,' and during this ritual, the girl, symbolising the goddess in her purest form, is revered and worshipped. The tradition is particularly prominent during festivals like Durga Puja in India and Nepal, where it is celebrated to honour Goddess Durga and her different forms, especially her youthful and dynamic aspect. On the auspicious occasion of Kumari Puja on Durga Ashtami, we bring you Happy Durga Ashtami 2024 wishes and Kumari Puja HD images that you can share with your close friends and family with Durga Puja messages, Pujo greetings and Ashtami wallpapers.

The ritual of Kumari Puja on Durga Ashtami typically involves selecting a girl, usually between the ages of 5 and 12, who is dressed in fine clothes and adorned with jewellery to resemble a goddess. The girl is then seated on a special throne, and devotees offer prayers, flowers, fruits, and sweets to her. She is treated with great reverence and is believed to embody the divine during the ritual. Kumari Puja reflects the belief that divinity resides in all beings, especially in the innocence and purity of young girls, who are seen as vessels of divine grace. Let's celebrate Kumari Puja 2024, with these Durga Ashtami 2024 wishes, Kumari Puja HD images, wallpapers and Subho Maha Ashtami greetings.

Happy Durga Ashtami Wishes

Happy Durga Ashtami Wishes (Photo Credits: File Image)

Happy Durga Ashtami Wishes

Happy Durga Ashtami Wishes (Photo Credits: File Image)

Happy Durga Ashtami Wishes

Happy Durga Ashtami Wishes (Photo Credits: File Image)

Kumari Puja Images 

Kumari Puja Images (Photo Credits: File Image)

Kumari Puja Images

Kumari Puja Images (Photo Credits: File Image)

In Nepal, Kumari Puja takes on a unique form with the tradition of the living goddess, the Kumari Devi. In this ancient practice, a young girl is chosen to be the living embodiment of the goddess Taleju, and she is worshipped as a goddess until she reaches puberty. The Kumari plays a vital role in cultural and religious events, with devotees seeking her blessings for protection, prosperity, and well-being. This practice is deeply rooted in Nepalese culture and is an essential part of the festivities during Indra Jatra and other important occasions.

Kumari Puja emphasises the celebration of feminine power and purity, representing the belief that the goddess's energy resides in every woman, especially in young girls. The ritual encourages reverence for women and girls, reminding society of their divine nature. It also highlights the significance of nurturing respect, compassion, and protection for young girls, as they symbolise the future and the potential for transformation and growth within the community.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 11, 2024 08:35 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).