| Aashtami, also known as Durga Ashtami, is considered one of the most significant days during the Navratri festival. It falls on the eighth day of the Navratri festival, which is a nine-night festival dedicated to the worship of the Hindu goddess Durga. The term 'Aashtami' is derived from 'Asht' which means 'eight' in Sanskrit. The significance of Aashtami in Navratri lies in the belief that Goddess Durga, in her form as Mahagauri, is worshipped on this day. Mahagauri symbolizes intelligence, peace, prosperity, and calm. She is considered to be the most beautiful form of Goddess Durga and is known for her ability to fulfill all the desires of her devotees. On this day, devotees observe a fast and perform special pujas and rituals to seek the blessings of the goddess. The rituals include the recitation of Durga Saptashati, a set of 700 verses in praise of the goddess, and the performance of Durga Ashtami Puja. One of the most important rituals performed on Aashtami is the 'Kanya Puja', where nine young girls, representing the nine forms of Goddess Durga, are worshipped. These girls are treated as the goddess herself and are offered new clothes, gifts, and a special meal. This ritual is believed to bring prosperity and good luck. In many parts of India, a grand procession, known as 'Durga Ashtami procession' or 'Jyoti Kalash', is carried out on this day. The procession includes the carrying of earthen pots, filled with burning camphor and covered with a cloth, on the head. This is done to symbolize the presence of the divine power of the goddess. Aashtami is also significant as it marks the beginning of the end of the evil demon Mahishasura by Goddess Durga, which is celebrated on the tenth day as Dussehra. This victory of good over evil is one of the main themes of the Navratri festival. In conclusion, Aashtami holds immense significance in the Navratri festival as it is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga in her form as Mahagauri. It is a day of intense devotion, fasting, and various rituals, all aimed at seeking the blessings of the goddess for prosperity, peace, and the victory of good over evil. |