Durga Ashtami 2026: Is It on 25 or 26 March? Date and Kanya Pujan Timings Explained The eighth day of Chaitra Navratri, known as Durga Ashtami or Mahashtami, is a significant day dedicated to worshipping Maa Mahagauri, the eighth avatar of Goddess Durga. Devotees observe rituals and perform Kanya Pujan, a practice where young girls are honored and offered food, to seek blessings for prosperity and spiritual renewal. This day holds deep cultural and religious importance, marking a key moment in the Navratri festival. The date of Durga Ashtami has caused some confusion due to the Ashtami tithi spanning two days. According to the Drik Panchang, the Chaitra Shukla Ashtami tithi begins at 1:50 pm on 25 March 2026 and ends at 11:48 am on 26 March 2026. Based on the Udaya tithi, the observance of Durga Ashtami will fall on Thursday, 26 March 2026. This clarification helps devotees determine the correct day for rituals and prayers. Kanya Pujan is a central ritual during Chaitra Navratri, with Durga Ashtami and Mahanavami being particularly important. On Durga Ashtami, Kanya Pujan is performed on Thursday, 26 March, while Mahanavami Kanya Pujan takes place on Friday, 27 March. These days are considered auspicious for invoking the blessings of Goddess Durga and ensuring abundance. For those observing Kanya Pujan on Durga Ashtami, favorable timings on 26 March include the Sarvartha Siddhi Yoga from 6:17 am to 3:24 pm, the Abhijit Muhurat from 12:02 pm to 12:51 pm, and the Labh-Unnati Muhurat from 7:50 am to 9:22 am. Additionally, Ravi Yoga is considered favorable throughout the day. On 27 March, the same auspicious combinations enhance the significance of Mahanavami Kanya Pujan.#drik_panchang #chaitra_navratri #durga_ashtami #kanya_pujan #gurudev_sri_sri_ravi_shankar
