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Maha Ashtami
October 2, 2022
Durga Ashtami Puja is observed in many parts of India mainly in Bengal, Orissa, Jharkhand, and other eastern parts of India. The day is considered significant as life is “breathed” into the idol of Durga by priests who perform elaborate rituals amidst chanting of religious verses.
The devotees of Goddess Durga start the celebrations on the morning of Maha Ashtami with Pushpanjali. Devotees perform ritualistic bathing and fasting before offering Pushpanjali. Fresh flowers are held in hand and the mantra is recited after the priest. After reciting the Sanskrit couplets everyone showers flowers at the Goddess’s feet.
The worship of little girls, called ‘kumari puja, is the main attraction of the day. Kumari Puja is the puja where a young girl, between ages of 12-13 is worshipped, as the young girl representation of Devi Durga.
Yoginis (the companions of Devi Durga) are worshiped on this day. The nine manifestations of the Goddess- Durga, Jayanti, Mangola Kali, Bhadra Kali, Kapalini, Kshama Dhatri, Siva, Svaha, and Svadha are worshiped.
Puja at Toronto Durgabari: 10/10.15 am
Anjali: 12 pm – 3 pm
Prasad/food: 1.30 pm
Evening Puja/Aroti – 7/7.15 pm
Cultural Program: 8 pm
