Durgashtami 2025 – Celebrating Shakti’s Power and Purity

Durgashtami, also known as Mahashtami, is the eighth and most spiritually intense day of the Navratri or Durgotsav festival. It honors Goddess Shakti, the fierce and compassionate embodiment of Durga, who symbolizes the triumph of good over evil.

Date & Calendar Details

Festival Type: Part of Sharad Navratri, beginning from Mahalaya
Tithi: Ashtami (8th day) of Shukla Paksha in the month of Ashwin
Gregorian Calendar: Falls in September–October
Durgashtami 2025: Tuesday, September 30
Masik Durga Ashtami: Also observed monthly on every Shukla Ashtami

Rituals & Observances

Fasting: Devotees observe a day-long fast to invoke the blessings of Goddess Durga.
Astra Puja: Weapons used by Durga to slay Mahishasura are ritually worshipped, symbolizing divine strength.
Virashtami: Martial arts and weapon displays are performed to honor the warrior aspect of the Goddess.
Ashta Nayika Worship: The eight forms of Durga—Brahmani, Indrani, Vaishnavi, Varahi, Narasinghi, Kameshwari, Maheshwari, Chamunda—are invoked.
Ghat Sthapana: A sacred altar is prepared with red sandalwood paste, fruits, flowers, sweets, betel leaves, cardamom, and coins.
Lamp Offering: A lamp is waved seven times before the deity.
Durga Saptashati Recitation: Chanted 108 times for divine protection and grace.
64 Yoginis: Worshipped as divine attendants of the Goddess.
Bhairava & Minor Deities: Honored as protectors and guardians of Shakti.

Kanya Puja (Gauri Worship)

Nine Virgin Girls (Kanya) are worshipped as manifestations of Goddess Gauri.
Ritual includes:

Washing their feet
Offering halwa, puri, and kheer
Honoring them with gifts and blessings

Temple Celebrations

Large-scale Pujas & Havans: Held in temples across India, especially in Bengal, Odisha, and North India.
Sandhi Puja: Marks the transition from Ashtami to Navami, considered the most auspicious moment of the festival.

Beliefs & Spiritual Significance