Maha Ashtami: Who is Maa Mahagauri? Know the significance, shubh muhurat, Kanya puja vidhi, mantra

The eighth day of Shardiya Navratri is called Maha Ashtami. Maha Ashtami, also known as Ashtami or Durgashtami, is considered as one of the most auspicious days of Navratri and Durga Puja festivities. This year Ashtami falls on October 3. Devotees worship Goddess Mahagauri, the eighth incarnation of Maa Durga on this day. During the nine-day Navratri festival, devotees worship Maa Durga's nine incarnations in order to obtain her blessings.

According to Hindu mythology, Mahagauri attained "Gaur Varna" by rigorous penance. The name 'Mahagauri' means the one extremely bright. She mounts on the ox.

On this day, people also perform Kanya/Kumari Puja or Kanjak. Devotees invite small kids at home to offer food and worship them as Devi and Launguras. The day is also observed as Durgashtami by those who observe Durga Puja.


Maha Ashtami Significance:
It is believed that Goddess Shakti defeated buffalo demon Mahishasura on this day. The day is celebrated as the victory of the Goddess Shakti over Mahishasura. Devotees worship Maa Mahagauri, eighth incarnation of Maa Durga, on this day.

The Goddess Mahagauri is known for bestowing money and prosperity on worshipers. It is also believed that worshipping Mahagauri on this day can help worshippers overcome all obstacles and cleanse all sins. People also observe fast on this day to get the blessings for money and good luck.

Ashtami Kanya/Kumari Vidhi:
Devotees also perform Kanya/Kumari Puja or Kanjak by worshipping young unmarried girls. They are considered divine forms of Goddess Shakti and honoured with special Navratri gifts. Worshippers wash their feet, offer them red dupatta, bangles, and a few other signs of thanks, and pray for their blessings.

Ashtami Kanya Pujan Shubh Muhurat:
The Ashtai tithi will start at 6:48 pm on Sunday, October 2, and will end at 4:37 pm on Monday, October 3.

Shubh Muhurat: 9:12 and 10:41 a.m.

Ashtami Mantra:
* Om Devi Mahagauryai Namah
* Shwete Vrishesamarudha Shwetambaradhara Shuchih
* Mahagauri Shubham Dadyanmahadeva Pramodada