Chaitra Navratri began on 30 March and will continue until 6 April. This festival holds great significance in Hinduism. While Navratri is observed four times a year, Chaitra Navratri and Sharad Navratri are the most widely celebrated. Each of the nine days is dedicated to a different form of Goddess Durga, and devotees worship her with unwavering devotion. Many believe that fasting during Navratri brings blessings and fulfils wishes. The fast is traditionally broken with Kanjak Puja on Ashtami. However, this year, there is some confusion regarding the exact dates of Ashtami and Navami Puja. Here is everything you need to know.
The Ashtami Tithi begins on 4 April at 8:12 pm and ends on 5 April at 7:26 pm. Kanya Pujan can be performed on 5 April between 11:59 am and 12:49 pm.
Many people also observe Kanjak Puja on Navami, which falls on 6 April. This day is also celebrated as Ram Navami, making it another significant occasion for devotees.
Ashtami is one of the most important days of Navratri, as many devotees break their fast and offer bhog to Goddess Durga. On this day, homes are cleaned, temples are decorated, and special prasad is prepared as an offering to the goddess. Bhog is an essential part of the puja, and after making the offering, young girls who have not reached puberty are served food, as they are considered living embodiments of Goddess Durga. While each household has its own variations, bhog thali is always prepared without garlic and onion. Some traditional dishes are a must-have in this sacred meal.
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