Maha Navami, also known as Durga Navami, is the ninth day of the vibrant Hindu festival of Navratri and the fourth day of Durga Puja. Durga Puja 2024 will start on October 9. This auspicious occasion marks the penultimate day of worship before the festival culminates in Vijaya Dashami, celebrated the following day. Maha Navami is recognised as a public holiday in various states across India, although the observance may differ depending on local traditions. Maha Navami 2024 falls on October 11 and is packed with major rituals and festivities such as Ayudha Puja, Kanya Pujan and Navami Homa. Durga Puja 2024 Start and End Dates in India: When Is Mahalaya, Durga Ashtami, Maha Navami and Bijoya Dashami? Check Date-Wise Details of Bengali Durga Puja.

Maha Navami 2024 Date & Significance

This year, Maha Navami will be celebrated on October 11, 2024. The roots of Maha Navami lie in the legendary battle between Goddess Durga and the demon Mahishasura. This epic confrontation symbolises the eternal struggle between good and evil, a theme that resonates in the hearts of people everywhere. On Maha Navami, it is believed that Goddess Durga inflicted a fatal wound on Mahishasura, setting the stage for his ultimate defeat on Vijayadashami. Durga Ashtami 2024 Date and Time: When Is Maha Ashtami? From Shodashopachara Puja to Kumari Puja, Know About Rituals and Celebrations Falling on Day 3 of Durga Puja.

During this festival, devotees honour the goddess in her form as Mahishasuramardhini, which translates to "She who defeated Mahishasura." The day is celebrated with great reverence and joy, especially in regions such as West Bengal, Assam, Odisha, Tripura, Jharkhand, and Bihar.

Maha Navami Rituals and Celebrations

Maha Navami is celebrated with a range of rituals and festivities that showcase the devotion of the worshippers:

Worship of the Goddess: Goddess Durga, along with her counterparts Lakshmi and Saraswati, is worshipped with great fervour. Additionally, the deities Ganesha and Kartikeya are also honoured during this time. The Devi Mahatmya, a sacred text detailing the legends of Goddess Durga, is recited with enthusiasm.

Ayudha Puja: In Southern India, the ritual of Ayudha Puja is significant, where not just the goddess but also tools, instruments, and vehicles are worshipped. This practice prepares devotees for new ventures as they seek blessings for success and prosperity on Vijaya Dashami.

Kanya Pujan: In North and East India, the Kanya Pujan is performed, honouring nine young girls who symbolise the goddess. Rituals include washing their feet, applying kumkum and sandalwood paste, and offering new clothes and special meals, signifying respect and reverence for feminine energy.

Navami Homa: This ritual serves as a culmination of the nine days of Navratri and includes various pujas. In some regions, traditional practices like Navami Bali, or animal sacrifice, are still observed.

Activities to Embrace on Maha Navami

Participate in Durga Puja: Engaging in local Durga Puja celebrations is a wonderful way to experience the festive spirit. Temples and homes are beautifully adorned, and various rituals, including Kanya Pujan, are performed to honour the goddess.

Observe a Day of Fasting: Many devotees fast as a form of devotion. While some choose to abstain from food for the entire day, others may fast until noon and then enjoy a light meal, followed by traditional sweets.

Explore the Legends: Dive into the captivating stories of Goddess Durga’s victory over Mahishasura and other ancient narratives. Sharing these tales can help spread awareness about the significance of Maha Navami.

Maha Navami is a day filled with spiritual significance, devotion, and community spirit. As worshippers come together to honour the goddess, they reflect on the triumph of good over evil, renewing their faith and resilience in the face of life's challenges.

(Disclaimer: The information provided here is based on beliefs and legends only. Before applying any information in real life, consult the concerned expert.)

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 30, 2024 11:20 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).