Celebrating Navratri: Significance of Ashtami and Worship of Goddess Mahagauri

The Importance of Navratri and Ashtami

Navratri is a revered festival dedicated to the worship and reverence of Shakti, symbolizing power. Among the nine days, Ashtami stands out as particularly significant. On this day, devotees engage in special prayers and rituals to honor the Mother Goddess. The eighth day is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Mahagauri, who is believed to bring blessings and fulfillment to her devotees.

According to scholar Pt. Anupam Maharaj, Ashtami is a day of great importance during Navratri. It is marked by unique puja rituals dedicated to Mahagauri, who is said to be in a state of bliss on this day. Devotees often adorn the Goddess with 16 types of ornaments, presenting her as a radiant figure, akin to camphor, and dressed in white, wielding various weapons.

Rituals and Offerings for Goddess Mahagauri

Guidelines for Worship and Offerings

Pt. Anupam Maharaj emphasizes that Goddess Mahagauri has a fondness for coconuts, which should be offered as prasad during the rituals. Those who raise a flag at her shrine on Ashtami are believed to receive blessings of success and triumph in all endeavors. Engaging in the rituals at the Goddess's temple on this day is said to yield the full benefits of the yagna.

Additionally, devotees are encouraged to recite special prayers, including the Satchandi. The Devi Bhagavat suggests performing Kanya Pujan, which involves honoring young girls, and offering them gifts. It is customary to adorn the Goddess with a variety of flowers, present coconuts, and share the prasad with fellow devotees.

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