Durga Ashtami

History of Durga Ashtami

One of the most significant and cherished Hindu holidays is Durga Ashtami, also known as Navratri. This Pan-Indian event entails the ceremonial adoration of Goddess Durga in nine forms over nine nights and is observed in varied ways throughout India. The event takes place in the month of Ashwin, which is usually September or October, and it is well-known not just in India but also in neighboring nations. Durga Ashtami ceremonies last 10 days, with the first and last five days being special festivals that are observed as public holidays in several Indian states.

Durga Ashtami commemorates Goddess Durga’s triumph over Mahishasura, the terrible buffalo monster. According to legend, Mahisasura could only be vanquished by a female fighter due to a blessing given to it by Lord Brahma. The holy trinity, Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, formed Durga when Lord Indra was defeated on the battlefield, and each portion of her body was gifted with the energy of various male gods. Durga Ashtami used her trident to vanquish Mahisasura on this day, using weapons that signified their manly might.

One of the many reasons why this celebration is so popular is to obtain the Goddess’s blessings in the hopes of gaining money, success, and wisdom. Every Indian holiday has a deep connection and importance concerning purchasing investments such as gold, silver, and real estate. This is because celebrations are often connected with riches, and many feel that investing in something major or beginning something new on such auspicious occasions would bring them greater happiness and fortune in the next year.

Durga Ashtami timeline

1600s

The First Durga Ashtami

According to some historians, the first Durga Ashtami is conducted by Bhabananda Mazumdar of Nadiya or Raja Kangshanarayan of Taherpur.

1790

First Community of Puja

A dozen Bengali friends join together and raise funds to do the first communal puja, beginning a trend that is still widely followed in India today.

1909

Celebrations in Kolkata

The Puja is observed for the first time in Kolkata.

2017

The Statue Stands 100 feet tall

As part of the Durga Puja celebrations in Guwahati, India, a 100-foot towering Durga statue is presented.

Durga Ashtami FAQs

When is Durga Ashtami?

Durga Ashtami 2026 falls on Monday, October 19. It’s a day of profound devotion and vibrant celebrations across India, marking the eighth day of Navaratri.

How is Durga Ashtami celebrated?

Durga Ashtami is celebrated with great fervor through fasting, special prayers, and elaborate rituals like ‘Astra Puja,’ where Goddess Durga’s weapons are worshipped. Devotees also perform ‘Kumari Puja,’ honoring young girls as manifestations of the goddess.

How many people celebrate Durga Ashtami?

Durga Ashtami is a widely celebrated Hindu festival, observed by millions of devotees globally, especially in India, Nepal, and among the Indian diaspora. It’s a key part of the larger Navaratri festival.

What is the significance of Durga Ashtami?

Durga Ashtami holds immense significance as it commemorates Goddess Durga’s victory over the buffalo demon Mahishasura, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. It reinforces faith in divine justice and protection.

How to Observe Durga Ashtami

Visit Shiva Temple

At midnight, visit a neighboring Shiva temple and take in all of the wonderful vibratory energy during a midnight puja. It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Offer Lord Shiva prayers and a pledge to improve oneself and follow the path of goodness.

Wish people peace and serenity

This day commemorates the victory of good over evil. This is a sentiment that is shared by almost everyone. Even if you aren't Hindu or Indian, wishing others well on this day would be much appreciated by your friends or acquaintances who observe this holy festival.

Read about the legends surrounding Durga Puja

The narrative of Mahishasur and Ravana's killing is one that most youngsters enjoy hearing. Both adults and children will enjoy reading the epic "Ramayana."

5 Facts About Durga Ashtami

Draw eyes in the darkness

This is a contrasting ceremony and one of the many mind-boggling aspects of this puja is the eyes that are commonly thought of as light routes.

Ten hands

Durga is sometimes represented with ten hands, which represent her numerous "Shaktis" (powers).

Made of clay

According to legend, the idol or pratima of Durga is formed of clay, and the attendant gods and goddesses (four in total) are known as ‘ek chala’ (one cover).

Collected from the banks of the river

The dirt or clay used to make the idols is taken from the banks of the Ganges, also known as the Hooghly in West Bengal.

Durga never fails to return home

Every year during Durga Puja, Goddess Durga is said to descend from heaven to her parents' home on Earth.

Why Durga Ashtami is Important

It is dedicated to the Hindu god

Durga Ashtami is a Hindu holiday that honors the Hindu goddess Durga, who is worshipped by Hindus worldwide. Durga was formed by the holy trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, and each portion of her body was gifted with the energy of various male gods.

It commemorates the triumph of good over evil

It is about regaining our faith in everything good and moral. It is also about realizing the requirement of leading a true, moral life devoid of worldly pleasures and wrongdoings is essential.

It's a fasting and feasting season

Some individuals fast for nine days, while others eat special delicacies prepared exclusively for this event. It is up to each individual to celebrate in their own unique way.