Maa Durga signifies the epitome of wrath & energy, playing an important role in killing the demons like Mahishasura. Created by the Lord Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh, Maa Durga is worshipped by the devotees to get ultimate blessings.

Observed on the eighth day of Navratri or Durgostav, Durgashtami is one the auspicious festival celebrated with excitement, enjoyment and a unique level of energy among the Hindus. Also known as Masik Durgashtami or Monthly Durgashtami, this festival generally falls in the Shukla Paksha of the lunar phase.

On the day of Masik Durgashtami, devotees are observed to keep a daylong fast, stretching from the dawn to the dusk. Also known as Astra puja, Durgashtami puja is the day on which the weapons are also worshipped.

Rituals & Rules to be followed on Durgashtami Puja & vrat:

Maha Ashtami Pooja:

The procedure starts after getting a bath in the early morning, where people wear red color clothes, apply red tilak & offer arghya to the Sun God with a copper pot. Along with red flowers, necklaces, incense sticks, earthen lamps are kept in the temple of Suhagan or Navadurga.

Sit on the red colored woolen posture and concentrate on the Maa Durga and chant the Durga Saptashati mantra for 108 times. Light a lamp & Akhanda Jyoti in front of the idol of Goddess Durga, offer the Charnamrit & later distribute the prasad among others.

On the other hand, some people perform a puja called Kumari Puja, where at least nine girls of age between 6-12 are invited treating them as the representative of Goddess Durga. The feet of these small girls are washed offered with gifts, Halwa (a sweet dish made of semolina, ghee, milk & nuts), Puri and Kheer. This puja is popularly known as ‘Kanya Poojan’ is performed on Mahashtami & Mahanavami.

How to keep fast for Durga Maa:

On the day of Vrat, it is recommended not to keep the house empty on any said condition. Furthermore, the individual observing the Vrat should not eat or drink anything for the entire day & chant the divine names or mantras of Goddess Durga.

Consuming milk & fruits is allowed, but one should abstain from eating non-veg or alcohol on this day. Also, the worshipper is asked to keep himself/herself away from the luxuries & hence should sleep on the floor or bed made of mat or hay.

Benefits of Durgashtami Puja & Vrat:

Boosts the growth in career, good health, wealth, happiness, and prosperity

Eliminates evil forces & all the problems & obstacles of life

Fulfills your every desire & brings in peace

Strengthens intimacy in relationships, self-confidence & blesses with progeny