Maha Saptami, the seventh day of the ten-day Durga Puja festival, is a significant occasion celebrated with great enthusiasm across India and in various countries with Indian communities. This day, marked by the waxing moon of "Shukla Paksha" in the Hindu month of Ashwin, holds a special place in the hearts of devotees. When is Maha Saptami 2024? What is the Durga Puja Maha Saptami 2024 date? What are the rituals that will be observed on this important day during Pujo? So many questions and we have answers to all! 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 Saptami 2024 Date and Significance

In 2024, Maha Saptami falls on Thursday, October 10. Maha Saptami is especially revered in states like West Bengal, Assam, Tripura, Odisha, and Sikkim, where the festivities take on a grand scale. The day is not only a celebration of the festival but also a reminder of the mythological battle between Goddess Durga and the demon king Mahishasura, which is believed to have commenced on this very day.

The significance of Maha Saptami extends beyond mere rituals; it symbolises the triumph of good over evil, a theme that resonates deeply within the human spirit. The culmination of this battle is celebrated on Vijayadashami, the festival's final day, which represents hope and righteousness.

Rituals of Maha Saptami

Maha Saptami is rich with traditional rituals that enhance its spiritual essence. Here are some key practices associated with the day:

Navapatrika: This ritual involves gathering nine sacred plants that symbolise the eight goddesses created by Durga to assist her in her battle against Mahishasura. These plants include turmeric, bel, ashoke, jayanti, pomegranate, banana, paddy, colocasia, and arum. Before sunrise, these plants are taken to the Ganges River for ceremonial bathing, symbolising purity and devotion.

Mahasnan: In this ritual, a mirror is treated as the embodiment of Goddess Durga. The mirror is placed in front of the goddess's idol and is given a ceremonial bath, representing the reflection of divine energy.

Prana Prathishta: This important ritual involves a pot filled with holy water, topped with a coconut and surrounded by five mango leaves. A priest consecrates this pot with the spirit of the Goddess while chanting sacred hymns, further sanctifying the space. After this, the Goddess is worshipped with sixteen specific offerings, known as Shodashopachar, signifying the devotion and reverence of the devotees. Subho Maha Sasthi 2024 Date and Significance: Everything You Need To Know About 'Devi Paksha' That Marks the Official Start of Durga Puja.

As Maha Saptami approaches in 2024, communities will come together to partake in these rich traditions, reinforcing bonds of faith and culture. The day stands as a powerful reminder of the enduring struggle between good and evil, inspiring individuals to seek strength and righteousness in their own lives.

(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 10:53 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).