Ashtami and Navami Tithi have special significance in Shardiya Navratri. On both these days, the eighth form of Maa Durga, Maa Mahagauri, and the ninth form of Maa Siddhidatri are worshipped. Kanya Puja is also performed in the last days of Navratri.
However, this time due to Ashtami and Navami Tithi falling on the same day, there is confusion among the people regarding the date. Let us know when Mahashtami and Mahanavami will be celebrated in the year 2026 and which time will be auspicious for Kanya Puja.
When is Ashtami and Navami in Shardiya Navratri 2026?
- According to the Panchang, Ashtami Tithi of Ashwin Shukla Paksha will start on October 18, 2026 at 8:27 am and will end on October 19 at 10:51 am. On the basis of Udayatithi, the festival of Mahashtami will be celebrated on 19th October. Mother Mahagauri can be worshiped on this day and Kanya Puja can be done on Ashtami.
- At the same time, Navami Tithi will start at 10:51 am on October 19 and will continue till 12:50 pm on October 20. On this basis, Kanya Puja on Navami Tithi can be done after 10.51 am on 19th October. However, while deciding the time of puja, the local almanac and tradition of puja should be kept in mind.
Importance of worshiping girls on Ashtami and Navami
Worshiping girls during Navratri is considered especially fruitful. According to religious beliefs, small girls are considered to be the form of Mother Durga and worshiped. During this, the feet of the girls are washed, tilak is applied to them and food is offered with reverence. After this, their blessings are taken by giving Dakshina and gifts as per capacity. It is believed that by worshiping a girl as per the rituals on Ashtami or Navami day, one gets the blessings of Mother Durga. Devotees pray for happiness, prosperity and well-being of the family through this ritual.
What is the mythological belief related to girl worship?
In mythological beliefs, girl worship is considered an important medium of worship of Goddess Shakti. According to a popular story, Indradev had sought guidance from Lord Brahma to know the solution to please Mother Goddess. Lord Brahma advised him to worship the girls and feed them. After this, Indradev worshiped the girls and fed them. According to religious belief, pleased with the devotion and service towards the girls, the Goddess blessed Lord Indra. Since then the tradition of girl worship is said to have become prevalent. However, different versions of this story are found in folk traditions.