Maha Ashtami of Durga Puja Today, Kumari Puja at Ramakrishna Mission

Maha Ashtami, one of the most significant days of Sharadiya Durga Puja, is being observed today, Monday, October 19. Worship of Goddess Durga began early in the morning with Kalparambha, prescribed rituals and recitation of the Chandi.

One of the main highlights of Maha Ashtami is Kumari Puja, during which a young unmarried girl is worshipped as a manifestation of the divine feminine.

Religious rituals have been underway since morning at the Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission in the capital. Kumari Puja is scheduled to take place there at 9:30 am. During the ritual, a girl aged between one and 16 is worshipped as a living embodiment of Goddess Durga.

According to Hindu scriptures, the Divine Mother is envisioned in a young girl and worshipped with reverence. Devotees believe that the power of Mahamaya is reflected in every woman. Respect for women and reverence for feminine power are among the central teachings of Kumari Puja.

Another important ritual of Maha Ashtami is Sandhi Puja, performed at the transition between the Ashtami and Navami lunar days. According to Hindu mythology, the ritual commemorates Goddess Durga taking the form of Chamunda to slay the demons Chanda and Munda.

After the Ashtami worship, devotees will offer flowers and bel leaves at the feet of the goddess while reciting sacred mantras. They will then seek the blessings of the girl worshipped as the goddess. Mahaprasad will be distributed at various temples after the ceremonies.