Bhakti D
Durga Ashtami, also called Maha Ashtami, is the eighth day of Navaratri and perhaps the most significant day in the ten-day Durga Puja festival. On this day, devotees worship Goddess Shakti, an aspect of Durga symbolising eternal power and the triumph of good over evil. Many observe fasting, and in some traditions, this day is also called Astra Puja (worship of weapons), since the weapons of Durga are honoured.
According to belief, on this day, Goddess Kali emerged from the forehead of Durga and destroyed the demons Chanda, Munda, and Raktabija. Major temples hold large-scale pujas and havans, attended by many devotees. The evening also features Sandhi Puja, which bridges Ashtami into the next day, which is Maha Navami. In 2025, Durga Ashtami falls on Tuesday, 30 September.
Also Read: Navratri 2025: Why We Celebrate Navratri and Dussehra
When is Durga Ashtami celebrated?
Durga Ashtami is observed on the eighth day (Ashtami tithi) of Navratri, counted from Mahalaya, in the Shukla Paksha of the Ashwin month in the Hindu calendar. In Gregorian terms, it typically falls in September or October. In 2025, Navratri begins on 22 September and ends on 2 October.
In 2025, the Ashtami tithi begins at 4:32 PM on 29 September and ends at 6:06 PM on 30 September. Since the tithi (lunar day) overlaps, the main observance of Maha Ashtami is placed on 30 September. Maha Navami then follows on Wednesday, 1 October 2025.
Ashta Nayikas
During Durga Puja rituals, the 64 Yoginis and Ashta Nayikas (the eight consorts or energies of Goddess Durga) are worshipped. Though regional interpretations vary, these eight goddesses are viewed as aspects of Shakti. But ultimately, all eight goddesses are incarnations of Shakti. They are the same powerful Divine Feminine, representing different energies.
The Ashta Nayikas worshipped during Durga Puja are Brahmani, Maheshwari, Kameswari, Vaishnavi, Varahi, Narasinghi, Indrani and Chamunda.
Durga Ashtami Tradition and Rituals
A “ghat” (small altar) is often established before the Goddess Durga. Red sandalwood paste, fruits, flowers, sweets, betel leaves, cardamom and coins are distributed among the kin.
A popular North Indian custom is Kanya Puja / Kanya Kanjak — inviting a group of young unmarried girls (usually five or seven) to the home, washing their feet, performing Aarti/Puja, offering them food and sweets, and giving small gifts. The girls are regarded as manifestations of the divine Shakti on earth. The tradition is based on the belief that each of these young girls (kanjaks) represents the shakti (energy) of Durga on Earth.
It is believed that those who fast strictly on this day to please Mother Durga receive her care and are freed from illusions in life.
Ashtami Prasad (Bhog)
People wait eagerly for the Ashtami bhog, which is distinct from bhogs on other days. Common dishes include:
- Khichdi or Khichur made with mixed vegetables (green peas, potatoes, beans, cauliflower)
- Sand payesh (kheer / sweet milk dessert)
- In pandals, typical offerings may include: rice, chana dal, paneer curry, mixed vegetable dishes, begun bhaja(eggplant fritters), tomato chutney, papad, rajbhog, and payesh.
