Dussehra (Maha Ashtami) – The Power of Goddess Durga in India

Maha Ashtami is one of the most important and revered days in the Durga Puja festival, particularly celebrated in West Bengal, Odisha, Assam, and other parts of eastern India. It falls on the eighth day of the waxing moon during the Hindu month of Ashwin (September–October) and is marked by grand rituals, prayers, and devotion to Goddess Durga.

On this day, Durga is worshipped in her fierce and powerful form, symbolising the destruction of evil forces.

Maha Ashtami is also associated with the worship of young girls, representing the Kumari form of the goddess. The day culminates with the performance of Sandhi Puja, a special ritual that marks the transition from Ashtami to Navami, the ninth day of Durga Puja. The energy and divinity of Durga are believed to be at their peak during this time.

Maha Ashtami Dates in India for 2024, 2025, and 2026

Here are the dates for Maha Ashtami in India for the upcoming years:

The Significance of Maha Ashtami in India

Maha Ashtami holds immense significance in the Durga Puja celebrations as it is believed to be the day when Goddess Durga slays Mahishasura, the buffalo demon, symbolising the victory of good over evil. The day represents the pinnacle of the goddess’s power and strength, and it is celebrated with great fervour and devotion.

One of the most important rituals on this day is the Kumari Puja, where young pre-pubescent girls are worshipped as the living embodiment of the goddess. This ritual signifies the purity and divine energy of the goddess and is performed to invoke her blessings. Another key ritual on Maha Ashtami is the Sandhi Puja, which is conducted at the juncture of Ashtami and Navami, symbolising the goddess’s transition from one form to another.

How Maha Ashtami is Celebrated in India

Maha Ashtami is celebrated with a variety of rituals, prayers, and cultural events that honour the power and divinity of Goddess Durga. Devotees gather in large numbers at Durga Puja pandals to participate in the worship and seek the blessings of the goddess.

• Kumari Puja: One of the most sacred rituals on Maha Ashtami is the Kumari Puja, where young girls, typically between the ages of five and ten, are worshipped as the living manifestation of Goddess Durga. The girls are dressed in traditional attire, adorned with flowers, and offered sweets and fruits as part of the ritual. Kumari Puja is performed to honour the goddess in her youthful form and to seek her blessings for prosperity, protection, and strength.
• Sandhi Puja: Sandhi Puja is another significant ritual performed on Maha Ashtami. This puja is conducted at the exact moment when Ashtami ends and Navami begins, representing the goddess’s transition from one form to another. It is believed that this is the time when Durga’s power is at its peak, and special offerings of flowers, fruits, and lamps are made to the goddess. The ritual is accompanied by the lighting of 108 lamps, chanting of mantras, and the offering of bali (sacrifice), symbolising the destruction of evil forces.
• Worship of Weapons (Astra Puja): On Maha Ashtami, weapons are worshipped as part of the rituals, symbolising the power and strength of Durga. The goddess is often depicted holding various weapons in her hands, representing her ability to destroy evil and protect her devotees. Devotees offer prayers to these weapons, seeking the goddess’s blessings for strength and protection.
• Processions and Cultural Performances: Maha Ashtami is also a day of celebration and cultural expression. Many communities organise processions, where idols of Goddess Durga are taken through the streets, accompanied by music, drums, and dance performances. Traditional dance forms like Dhunuchi Naach, where devotees dance with earthen incense burners, are performed in front of the goddess’s idol, adding to the festive atmosphere.
• Feasts and Offerings: On Maha Ashtami, elaborate feasts are prepared and offered to the goddess. Devotees prepare a variety of dishes, including rice, vegetables, sweets, and fruits, which are first offered to Durga and then shared among family members and friends. The sharing of food symbolises the blessings of the goddess and the joy of the festival.

Maha Ashtami in Different Parts of India

While Maha Ashtami is primarily celebrated in West Bengal and other eastern states, it is observed in various forms across the country, particularly in regions with significant Bengali populations.

• West Bengal (Kolkata): In Kolkata, the heart of Durga Puja celebrations, Maha Ashtami is observed with great devotion and enthusiasm. Thousands of people visit the beautifully decorated pandals to offer prayers and witness the Kumari Puja and Sandhi Puja rituals. The city comes alive with cultural performances, music, and dance, making it a vibrant and festive occasion.
• Assam and Odisha: In Assam and Odisha, Maha Ashtami is celebrated with similar fervour. Durga Puja pandals are set up in cities and towns, and devotees participate in the rituals with devotion. The Kumari Puja and Sandhi Puja are key events on this day, and people gather in large numbers to offer their prayers.
• Delhi and Mumbai: In cities like Delhi and Mumbai, where there are large Bengali communities, Maha Ashtami is celebrated with the same devotion as in West Bengal. The rituals are performed in pandals set up by local Bengali associations, and the day is marked by cultural events, feasts, and community gatherings.

Maha Ashtami – A Day of Power, Devotion, and Victory

Maha Ashtami is a day of immense religious and cultural significance in India. It represents the triumph of good over evil, the power of the goddess, and the strength of devotion. The rituals performed on this day, particularly the Kumari Puja and Sandhi Puja, reflect the deep connection between devotees and the divine, as well as the belief in the goddess’s ability to protect and bless her followers.

As people gather to offer prayers, participate in rituals, and celebrate the power of Durga, Maha Ashtami serves as a reminder of the enduring strength of good over evil and the importance of faith, devotion, and community in Indian culture.

More Information about Maha Ashtami in India