Sharidya Navratri Last Day 2023: The Significance and Celebration

Sharidya Navratri holds great importance in the Sanatan Dharma. It is celebrated four times a year, with the Sharad Navratri, occurring in the Ashwin month, being one of the most significant. This year, the Sharad Navratri commenced and will culminate on 23rd October 2023, marking its ninth day. On the following day, Dashami or Vijayadashami, also known as Dussehra, will be celebrated on 24th October 2023. This is the day when the idol of Goddess Durga is immersed. Let’s delve deeper into the specifics of the eighth and ninth day of Navratri and the auspicious moments for worship.

Navratri: A Glimpse

Navratri is a nine-day festival dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga, the divine feminine power. It symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and the significance of inner strength. Each day of Navratri has its unique importance, rituals, and celebrations. The eighth day, known as Durga Ashtami, and the ninth day, Maha Navami, hold a special place in the hearts of devotees.

Durga Ashtami: 23rd October 2023

Durga Ashtami, also known as Mahishmati, is celebrated on the eighth day of Sharad Navratri. It is dedicated to the worship of Maa Mahagauri, the eighth manifestation of Goddess Durga. This day is marked by special rituals, including ‘Havan’ and ‘Kanya Pujan’ (worship of young girls). The auspicious moments for Durga Ashtami puja are as follows:

• Abhijeet Muhurat: From 12:00 PM to 12:46 PM
• Vijay Muhurat: From 2:19 PM to 3:05 PM
• Amrit Kaal: From 12:38 PM to 2:10 PM
• Sandhi Puja Time: From 7:34 PM to 8:22 PM
• Nishith Kaal Muhurat: From 11:58 PM to 12:48 AM (Next day)
• Sarvarth Siddhi Yoga: From 6:35 AM to 6:44 AM
• Ravi Yoga: From 6:44 AM to 6:35 AM (Next day)

It is believed that performing these rituals on Durga Ashtami brings immense blessings and prosperity.

Mahanavami: 23rd-24th October 2023

Mahanavami, the ninth day of Sharad Navratri, is dedicated to the worship of Maa Siddhidatri, the ninth form of Goddess Durga. The auspicious moments for Mahanavami puja are as follows:

• Abhijeet Muhurat: From 11:43 AM to 12:28 PM
• Vijay Muhurat: From 1:58 PM to 2:43 PM
• Amrit Kaal: From 7:29 AM to 8:59 AM
• Nishith Kaal Muhurat: From 11:40 PM to 12:31 AM (Next day)
• Sarvarth Siddhi Yoga: From 6:27 AM to 5:14 PM
• Ravi Yoga: Continues throughout the day.

Mahanavami is a day of great significance, and the worship of Maa Siddhidatri is believed to grant devotees the power to overcome obstacles and achieve success.

The Significance of Kanya Pujan

Kanya Pujan, the ritual of worshipping young girls on the eighth and ninth day of Navratri, is an integral part of the celebration. It is believed that by honoring young girls as a symbol of the divine feminine, one can attain blessings and protection from the Goddess. This tradition embodies the idea that respecting women is acknowledging the strength of the divine Shakti within them.

The Blessings of Navratri

Celebrating the last days of Sharad Navratri with devotion and rituals brings immense blessings. It is believed that it helps in removing obstacles, ensuring a prosperous life, and inviting the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi into one’s home. Navratri is not just a festival; it’s a spiritual journey that strengthens the connection between devotees and the divine.

Conclusion

Sharad Navratri is a time of joy, devotion, and spiritual awakening. As we celebrate Durga Ashtami and Maha Navami, let’s remember the significance of these days and the blessings they bring. May the divine grace of Goddess Durga fill your life with happiness and prosperity.