Maha Ashtami 2024: Date, Timings, Significance, and Messages

Navratri 2024: Maha Ashtami and Maha Navami mark the final two days of Durga Puja. Maha Ashtami, the eighth day of Shardiya Navratri , holds immense religious significance.

This year, Dussehra concludes on October 12, 2024, celebrating Maa Durga's triumph over the evil Mahishasura.

According to the Drik Panchang, the timings for Maha Ashtami this year are as follows:

Durga Ashtami (Maha Ashtami):
Date: Friday, October 11, 2024
 Ashtami Tithi Begins: 12:31 PM on Oct 10, 2024
 Ashtami Tithi Ends: 12:06 PM on Oct 11, 2024

Maha Navami:
Date: Friday, October 11, 2024
Navami Tithi Begins: 12:06 PM on Oct 11, 2024
Navami Tithi Ends: 10:58 AM on Oct 12, 2024

Who is Worshipped Today?

On Maha Ashtami, Maa Mahagauri, a form of Goddess Parvati, is worshipped. According to mythology, Parvati undertook severe penance to win Lord Shiva's love. Pleased with her devotion, Shiva married her, but her intense efforts caused her to lose her fair complexion. To regain it, she sought Lord Brahma’s help, who advised her to defeat the demons Sumbha and Nisumbha and then bathe in the Ganges. After this, she emerged as Maa Mahagauri.

Colour of the Day

The auspicious color for the day is Pink, symbolizing compassion, harmony, and love.

Maha Durga Ashtami Rituals

Maha Durga Ashtami is the second last day of Durga Puja. The day begins with Mahasnan and Shodashopachar Puja, where all nine forms of Goddess Durga are worshipped in nine small pots, representing the nine Shaktis of Durga. Kumari Puja, where young unmarried girls are revered, also takes place on this day.

The Sandhi Puja, held at the juncture of the last 24 minutes of Ashtami Tithi and the first 24 minutes of Navami Tithi, is considered the most auspicious time during the entire Durga Puja.

In many parts of West Bengal, Balidan (animal sacrifice) is traditionally performed. However, symbolic offerings like vegetables (e.g., banana, cucumber, or pumpkin) are also common.

Messages to Send Your Family and Friends on Maha Ashtami 2024:

1. "May Maa Durga's blessings fill your life with strength, courage, and prosperity. Happy Maha Ashtami!"
2. "Wishing you and your family a blessed Maha Ashtami. May the divine energy of the Goddess guide us towards a brighter future."
3. "On this auspicious day of Maha Ashtami, may the power of good prevail over evil. Warm wishes to you and your loved ones."
4. "Maha Ashtami ki shubhkamnayein! May this day bring joy, love, and togetherness to your family."
5. "Wishing you a vibrant and colorful Maha Ashtami. May the festivities bring happiness and prosperity to your life."
6. "May the spirit of Maha Ashtami inspire you to overcome challenges and achieve success."
7. "Wishing my favorite people a Happy Maha Ashtami! May this special day bring you closer to your loved ones."