Ashtami is one of the most
auspicious days and many people who cannot fast on all the nine Navaratri days,
keep the vrata on Ashtami. As the name suggests, Ashtami is the eighth day of Navaratri.
Durgashtami Significance
Durgashtami is special among all
the nine Navaratri days. There are several puja rituals on Ashtami. Nine little
girls between five and nine years old are invited and served a special meal with
sweets. According to legends, the nine little girls symbolize the avatars of
Goddess Durga.
Observance
On Ashtami, many families put up
community kitchens to serve the poor and underprivileged in the neighborhood. During
Kanya Puja, the girls are seated near
an idol or a photo of the goddess, their feet are washed and a red thread is
tied on their wrist with best wishes. A red bindi or kumkuma tilaka is put on their forehead. The girls are given
decorated plates with food, coin, and small gifts.
Durga Puja is also known as Durgotsava wherein Goddess Durga is welcomed by the devotees and preparations for the 5-day festivity begin much in advance. People immerse themselves in devotion, enjoy the fun, and pandal-hopping remains a highlight besides many traditional rituals and practices strictly followed by Bengalis across the globe.