Navratri is a nine-day Hindu festival dedicated to Goddess Durga and her nine divine forms. The last two days of the festival, Maha Ashtami and Maha Navami, are considered very special. On these days, devotees perform Kanya Pujan or Kumari Puja, a ritual where young girls are worshipped as a form of Goddess Durga. In 2025, there is some confusion about whether Kanya Pujan should be held on September 30 or October 1.
According to the Hindu panchang, the Ashtami tithi will begin on 29 September and end on 30 September in the evening, making September 30, 2025, the most auspicious day for Kanya Pujan. Some families, however, follow the tradition of doing the puja on Navami, which will fall on October 1, 2025.
Kanya Pujan is a traditional ritual of Navratri in which young girls, usually between the ages of 2 to 10, are worshipped as the embodiment of Goddess Durga. Devotees wash their feet, offer flowers, food, and gifts, and seek blessings from them. The ritual is seen as a way to honour feminine energy and divine power.
DATE OF KANYA PUJAN IN 2025
- Ashtami Tithi: Starts on 29 September at 4:31 PM and ends on 30 September at 6:06 PM.
- Navami Tithi: Begins on 30 September at 6:06 PM and continues till 1 October evening.
Therefore, the main day for Kanya Pujan in 2025 is September 30 (Maha Ashtami). However, those who prefer performing the ritual on Navami can do so on October 1.
AUSPICIOUS MUHURAT FOR KANYA PUJAN
On 30 September 2025, the most auspicious time for Kanya Pujan will be during the Abhijit Muhurat, which falls between 11:47 AM and 12:35 PM. Devotees are advised to avoid Rahu Kaal, which will be from 3:09 PM to 4:39 PM on that day.
SIGNIFICANCE OF THE RITUAL
Kanya Pujan symbolises purity, innocence, and the divine feminine energy. It is believed that worshipping young girls during Navratri pleases Goddess Durga and brings blessings of health, happiness, and prosperity. The food offered to the girls usually includes puri, halwa, and chana, which are later considered as prasad.
ASHTAMI OR NAVAMI: WHICH DAY SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?
Most traditions and panchangs recommend Ashtami (September 30, 2025) for Kanya Pujan. However, if someone is unable to perform it on that day, Navami (October 1, 2025) is also acceptable. The choice often depends on family tradition and regional customs.
For Navratri 2025, Kanya Pujan should be performed on September 30, but devotees may also choose October 1 as per their tradition. The most auspicious time on September 30 is between 11:47 AM and 12:35 PM.
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