Sandhi Puja 2026: Date, Exact Muhurat, 108 Diyas and Why This Ritual Is Important During Durga Puja

Sandhi Puja 2026 is one of the most spiritually significant rituals observed during Durga Puja, especially in Bengal and among Bengali communities. It marks the sacred transition between Maha Ashtami and Maha Navami, a period traditionally known as the Sandhi or junction of the two lunar tithis.

During this brief period, devotees worship Goddess Durga in her fierce Chamunda form. One of the most distinctive traditions associated with Sandhi Puja is the lighting of 108 diyas, accompanied by prayers, devotional chants and offerings to the Goddess.

In 2026, Sandhi Puja will be observed during the transition from Maha Ashtami to Maha Navami. Devotees should check their local Panchang for the exact city-wise timing, as the Sandhi period is calculated according to the prevailing Ashtami and Navami tithis at the location.


Also Read: Complete Guide To Durga Puja 2026 Dates: Know When Maha Saptami, Maha Ashtami, Maha Navami and Vijayadashami Fall

Sandhi Puja 2026 Date and Exact Muhurat

Sandhi Puja takes place at the exact junction when Maha Ashtami ends and Maha Navami begins. Traditionally, this sacred period lasts for 48 minutes, the final 24 minutes of Ashtami and the first 24 minutes of Navami. For Durga Puja 2026, Sandhi Puja will be observed on the Ashtami-Navami transition during the Durga Puja festivities.

Ritual	Details
Festival	Durga Puja 2026
Occasion	Sandhi Puja
Tithi	Maha Ashtami–Maha Navami transition
Duration	48 minutes
Main deity	Goddess Durga in her Chamunda form
Major ritual	Lighting 108 diyas

What Is Sandhi Puja?

The word “Sandhi” means junction or transition. Sandhi Puja is therefore performed at the precise junction between Maha Ashtami and Maha Navami.

This 48-minute period is regarded as highly auspicious for worshipping Goddess Durga. In traditional Durga Puja celebrations, special prayers and offerings are made during this short window, making it one of the most important moments of the entire festival.

Unlike a regular puja performed over a longer period, Sandhi Puja has a very specific timing. The ritual begins during the final 24 minutes of Ashtami and continues into the first 24 minutes of Navami.

Also Read: Mahalaya to Durga Puja 2026: What Happens Before Maa Durga Arrives? Complete Timeline

Why Is Sandhi Puja Performed During Durga Puja?

According to Hindu tradition, Sandhi Puja is associated with the divine battle between Goddess Durga and the demons Chanda and Munda. During the battle, the Goddess manifested her fierce form, later known as Chamunda, to defeat the two demons. The transition between Ashtami and Navami is traditionally associated with this powerful moment.

This is why the Sandhi period is considered particularly sacred for devotees of Goddess Durga. Worship during these 48 minutes is believed to honour the Goddess's strength, courage and victory over negative forces.

Sandhi Puja 2026: Why Are 108 Diyas Lit?

One of the most recognisable traditions of Sandhi Puja is the lighting of 108 oil lamps or diyas. The number 108 holds a special place in Hindu spiritual traditions and is associated with completeness and sacredness. During Sandhi Puja, 108 lamps are traditionally lit as an offering to Goddess Durga. The glow of the diyas also symbolises the removal of darkness and the triumph of divine energy over ignorance and negativity.

Sandhi Puja and the Story of Goddess Chamunda

The mythology associated with Sandhi Puja is connected to the battle between Goddess Durga and the asuras Chanda and Munda. According to the traditional account, when the demons challenged the Goddess, a fierce form emerged from her divine energy. This powerful manifestation defeated Chanda and Munda and came to be associated with the name Chamunda.

The Sandhi period is therefore connected with the Goddess's fierce and protective aspect. Devotees worship her during this time seeking strength, protection and the destruction of negative influences. The ritual also represents the triumph of Dharma over Adharma and good over evil.

Also Read: Bengali Durga Puja 2026: Powerful Maa Durga Mantras, Stotras and Chants for Devotees

Sandhi Puja Vidhi: Rituals and Offerings

Sandhi Puja is traditionally performed with great attention to timing. While customs differ between households, temples and Durga Puja committees, the ritual generally includes several important steps.

1. Preparing the Puja Space

The puja area is cleaned and decorated before the Sandhi period begins. The idol or image of Goddess Durga is placed and the required offerings are kept ready.

2. Lighting 108 Diyas

The traditional 108 diyas are lit during the Sandhi period. In community celebrations, priests and organisers often prepare the lamps in advance so that they can be illuminated at the appropriate time.

3. Offering Flowers

Flowers are offered to Goddess Durga along with prayers and devotional chants. Red flowers are commonly associated with Durga worship, although offerings vary according to local traditions.

4. Chanting Mantras

Devotees recite Durga mantras and other sacred prayers during the ritual. The atmosphere is often filled with conch-shell sounds, bells and devotional chanting.

5. Offering Bhog

Traditional bhog or prasad may be offered to the Goddess according to the customs followed by the family, temple or community puja.

6. Aarti and Prayers

The ritual concludes with prayers and aarti, with devotees seeking the blessings of Goddess Durga for protection, strength and well-being.

Why Is Sandhi Puja Special in Bengali Durga Puja?

Sandhi Puja has a particularly important place in Bengali Durga Puja traditions. In West Bengal and among Bengali communities across India and abroad, the Sandhi period is often one of the most anticipated moments of the Puja celebrations. Traditional homes and community puja committees may prepare extensively for the ritual.

The lighting of 108 diyas, the sound of dhak, conch shells and bells, devotional chanting and the offering of prayers create a distinctive spiritual atmosphere.

You May Like: Why Durga Puja Is More Than a Festival In Kolkata: Know Must-Visit Pandals and Unique Rituals That Make West Bengal's Heart Beat

Sandhi Puja vs Maha Ashtami Puja: What Is the Difference?

Although both are important parts of Durga Puja, they are not the same ritual.

Maha Ashtami Puja	Sandhi Puja
Observed on Maha Ashtami	Performed at the Ashtami-Navami junction
Has a broader puja period	Takes place during a specific 48-minute period
Includes regular Ashtami rituals and prayers	Focuses on the sacred transition between two tithis
Goddess Durga is worshipped	Goddess is especially associated with her fierce Chamunda form
Rituals may continue for a longer duration	Timing is highly specific

Can Sandhi Puja Be Performed at Home?

Yes, devotees may observe Sandhi Puja at home according to their family traditions and religious practices. However, the most important aspect is to follow the correct local Sandhi timing. Since the ritual is specifically linked to the transition between Ashtami and Navami, devotees should consult a reliable local Panchang for the exact Muhurat.