Ashtami Navratri 2023: Everything You Need to Know

Ashtami Navratri 2023

Ashtami Navratri, also known as Durga Ashtami, is the eighth day of the nine-day Hindu festival of Navratri. It is a day of great celebration and devotion, as Hindus celebrate the goddess Durga’s victory over the demon Mahishasura.

Significance of Ashtami Navratri

Ashtami Navratri is one of the most important days of Navratri, as it marks the day of Durga’s victory over evil. It is also a day of great spiritual significance, as it is believed that the goddess Durga is most powerful on this day.

Ashtami Navratri 2023 Date and Time

Ashtami Navratri 2023 will be celebrated on Sunday, October 22, 2023. The Ashtami Tithi will begin at 9:53 PM on October 21 and end at 7:58 PM on October 22.

Ashtami Navratri Rituals and Celebrations

On Ashtami Navratri, Hindus perform a variety of rituals and celebrations to honor the goddess Durga. Some of the most common rituals include:

• Kanya Puja (kanjak): On Ashtami Navratri, Hindus worship nine young girls, representing the nine forms of the goddess Durga. This ritual is believed to bring good luck and prosperity.
• Havan: Hindus also perform a havan, or fire ceremony, on Ashtami Navratri. This ritual is believed to purify the atmosphere and invoke the blessings of the goddess Durga.
• Fasting: Many Hindus fast on Ashtami Navratri as a way to show their devotion to the goddess Durga.
• Wearing the color purple: Purple is the color associated with Ashtami Navratri. Hindus often wear purple clothing on this day to honor the goddess Durga.

How to Celebrate Ashtami Navratri at Home

If you are unable to visit a temple on Ashtami Navratri, you can still celebrate the holiday at home. Here are a few ideas:

• Set up a small altar with a picture or statue of the goddess Durga. You can also decorate your altar with flowers, fruits, and other offerings.
• Perform a simple puja by offering the goddess Durga flowers, fruits, and incense. You can also recite mantras or prayers to the goddess Durga.
• If you are fasting, you can eat a simple meal of fruits, vegetables, and dairy products.
• Wear purple clothing to honor the goddess Durga.
• Spend time with your family and friends and share stories about the goddess Durga.

Ashtami Navratri is a special day to celebrate the goddess Durga and her victory over evil. It is a time to reflect on the goddess’s teachings and to seek her blessings.