Confusion Surrounding the Date of Maha Ashtami in Sharad Navratri
The festival of Sharad Navratri is celebrated with immense devotion and enthusiasm across the country. During these nine sacred days, devotees worship various forms of Goddess Durga. However, similar to every year, confusion persists regarding the exact dates for Maha Ashtami and Mahanavami. Many devotees remain unsure whether to observe the Ashtami fast and perform Kanya Pujan on October 18 or October 19 according to their family traditions.
Prominent astrologers and religious scholars have clarified this ambiguity by explaining the astrological calculations and Udayatithi rules that determine the most auspicious time for these rituals. In this report, we examine the exact duration of the Ashtami tithi, the correct time for breaking the fast, and the most favorable muhurtas for performing Kanya Pujan.
Astrological Calculations and Tithi Timings for Ashtami
According to the Hindu calendar, the Ashtami tithi for the Shukla Paksha of Ashwin month begins on October 18 at 8:27 AM. This tithi concludes the following day, October 19, at 10:51 AM. Since the Ashtami tithi is not fully prevalent during sunrise on October 18, many priests and scholars recommend observing Maha Ashtami on October 19 based on the Udayatithi principle.
On the other hand, some astrologers note that families who traditionally observe the fast on October 18 may continue to do so according to their customs. However, from a strict scriptural and calendar perspective, performing Kanya Pujan on October 19 is considered highly auspicious and rewarding. Coincidentally, the Navami tithi also begins on the same day, making careful attention to timing essential for devotees.
Auspicious Muhurtas for Kanya Pujan
Kanya Pujan holds profound significance during Navratri, and it is widely believed that Navratri worship remains incomplete without it. Several highly auspicious muhurtas are available on October 19 for performing Kanya Pujan. Devotees can invite young girls to their homes and seek divine blessings during these preferred time windows.
According to the panchang, the Brahma Muhurta on October 19 will last from 4:52 AM to 5:40 AM. Furthermore, the Amrit Kaal will be from 7:28 AM to 9:16 AM, and the Abhijit Muhurta will run from 11:49 AM to 12:34 PM. Worshiping Goddess Mahagauri and feeding young girls during these favorable hours brings happiness, peace, and prosperity to the household.
Significance of Including Two Boys in Kanya Pujan
A common question among devotees is why only young girls are worshipped during Kanya Pujan and what role young boys play in the ritual. According to scriptures, the presence of two young boys alongside nine girls is considered mandatory for completing the ceremony. This tradition carries deep mythological and spiritual significance.
"While the young girls are regarded as direct manifestations of the Goddess, the young boys accompanying them are considered symbolic representations of Lord Ganesha and Bhairava. Without them, the complete benefits of the ritual cannot be attained." — Renowned Astrologer
According to the Devi Bhagavata Purana, worshippers should always invite young girls between the ages of 2 and 10 years for Navratri rituals. Girls younger than two years are generally not included, and girls older than ten years should also be avoided. Different age groups represent different forms of the Goddess, each bestowing specific blessings upon the devotee.
