Shardiya Navratri 2026 Ashtami-Navami: Ashtami and Navami are the two days in Shardiya Navratri that hold special significance. On the day of Ashtami, Goddess Mahagauri is worshipped, whereas on Navami, Goddess Siddhidatri is worshipped. What makes these two days particularly important is Kanya Pujan, havan, Sandhi Puja, and the completion of the Navratri fast.
As both days are significant, find out when Ashtami and Navami fall during Shardiya Navratri in 2026. Also, know the auspicious timings for Kanya Pujan and which gifts to offer to Kanyas according to your zodiac sign. Above all, understand the significance of the young girls participating in the ritual.
In 2026, Shardiya Navratri begins on October 11 and continues until October 19. Maha Ashtami will fall on October 18, and Maha Navami will fall on October 19. Dussehra, which is the 10th day, will be celebrated on October 20, 2026. However, these dates can vary according to the Panchang and the tradition followed.
The Ashtami Tithi of the Ashwin month begins at 8:27 AM on October 18 and ends at 10:51 AM on October 19. However, those who follow the Udaya Tithi tradition will observe Ashtami on October 19.
The Navami Tithi of the Ashwin month begins at 10:51 AM on October 19 and continues until 12:50 PM on October 20. On this day, Maha Navami fasting, Kanya Pujan, and the worship of Goddess Siddhidatri are observed on this occasion. However, those who follow the Udaya Tithi tradition will observe the Navami tithi, or festival, on October 20th and should complete the ritual before 12:50 PM.
During Kanya Pujan, on both Asthami and Navami, young girls are invited and worshipped as the Goddess. These girls, aged 2 to 10, participate in this ritual.
According to Hindu scriptures, girls of different ages represent different forms of Maa Durga. Each form of Maa Durga holds spiritual significance and bestows particular blessings upon devotees. Get to know, with the table below, the significance of worshipping girls of different ages.
| Girl’s Age | Significance of Worshipping Different Forms |
| 2 years | A two-year-old girl is worshipped as Kumari Mata. It is believed that she removes sorrow and poverty from one’s life. |
| 3 years | A three-year-old girl is worshipped as Trimurti Mata. It is believed that she brings wealth, food, and prosperity in one’s life. |
| 4 years | A four-year-old girl is worshipped as Kalyani Mata. It is believed she helps one in accomplishing family endeavours. |
| 5 years | A five-year-old girl is worshipped as Rohini. It is believed that she protects family members from illness and physical suffering. |
| 6 years | A six-year-old girl is worshipped as Kalika. It is believed that she fosters intelligence and knowledge and helps one gain recognition. |
| 7 years | A seven-year-old girl is worshipped as Chandika. It is believed that she brings prosperity, strength, and wealth in one’s life. |
| 8 years | An eight-year-old girl is worshipped as Shambhavi. It is believed that she helps one succeed in legal matters and in marriage. |
| 9 years | A nine-year-old girl is worshipped as Goddess Durga herself. It is believed that she helps one in fulfilling wishes. |
| 10 years | A ten-year-old girl is worshipped as Subhadra. It is believed that she brings happiness and well-being in one’s life. |
According to astrology, each zodiac sign is associated with a particular planet. Traditional astrological beliefs suggest that giving gifts to Kanya according to one’s zodiac sign can strengthen the planet in the birth chart. It is also believed that giving zodiac-based gifts to girls during Kanya Pujan invokes the blessings of the Divine Goddess.
Considering the importance of gift-giving, here are some gift ideas for each zodiac sign. Further, if you need personalised guidance about your zodiac sign or Kundali, you can chat with an astrologer for free.
Choose your and your partner's zodiac sign to check compatibility
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