Durga Ashtami / Maha Ashtami Puja

During Maha Ashtami, devotees chant sacred mantras dedicated to Maa Durga as part of their traditional worship. These prayers express devotion to the Goddess and seek her blessings for courage, strength, peace, and spiritual well-being.

मंत्र:

ॐ दुं दुर्गायै नमः॥

Meaning: This is a traditional mantra offered in reverence to Maa Durga. Devotees chant it as an expression of श्रद्धा and devotion while performing Durga Puja.

Maa Durga Prarthana

शरणागतदीनार्तपरित्राणपरायणे। सर्वस्यार्तिहरे देवि नारायणि नमोऽस्तु ते॥

Meaning: This verse from the Devi Mahatmya praises the Goddess as the compassionate protector of those who seek refuge in her and as the remover of suffering. It is recited as a prayer of surrender and devotion to the Divine Mother.

Durga Ashtami Puja Vidhi

The worship may begin with the preparation of the पूजा स्थल, lighting a diya, and offering flowers, incense, and bhog to Maa Durga. The devotee or Pandit may chant “ॐ दुं दुर्गायै नमः॥” during the puja. Depending on the family tradition and selected package, the ceremony may also include Durga Saptashati Path, आरती, Havan, and prayers dedicated to the Goddess.

Durga Ashtami Aarti and Bhog

After the main पूजा and mantra recitation, devotees may perform Maa Durga's आरती and offer फल, मिठाई, नारियल, and other customary bhog. Kanya Pujan (कन्या पूजन) may also be arranged on Ashtami or Navami according to family tradition. Havan and Kanya Pujan should be confirmed separately if they are not part of the selected package.