Durga ‘Ashtami’ is considered one of the most important days of Navratri. It begins with Mahasnan and Shodashopachar Puja. On this day, all nine forms of the goddess and young women are worshiped on this day. This is known as Kumari puja.
#WATCH: Tomorrow ‘aarti’ is performed at Delhi’s Jhandewalan Temple on the eighth day (Ashtami) of #Navratri https://t.co/Dv4GDibrGB
– TOI Delhi (@TOIDelhi) 1603504634000
Devotees can visit Jhandewalan Temple from 4 am to 12 pm
The word Navratri translates as “nine nights”. In most parts of India different forms of the goddess, Maa Durga, are worshiped during these nine nights: Shilaputri, Brahmacharni, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandama, Katyayani, Kalratri, Maha Gauri, and Siddhidatri.
On the eighth day of Navratri, devotees across the country worship Goddess Mahagauri, the eighth avatar / form of Goddess Durga.
Meanwhile, the morning ‘aarti’ was also held at Kalka Mandir, where devotees attended prayers following the Covid-19 protocol.
Speaking to ANI, Karan Bhatia, head of media for the Jhandewalan temple, said: “We have been following the Covid-19 guidelines issued by the central government as there are different teams made up of 25.00 men and 300 women working for different departments, the temple facilities twice a day. We also make sure that those who enter the temple wear a mask and use disinfectant. ”
“We have two ambulances ready for any emergency and we also have a team of qualified doctors in case someone needs medical treatment immediately,” he added.
This year, the Covid-19 pandemic has clouded the festivities as there is a large decrease in the number of devotees coming to the temple to offer prayers. Temple authorities adhere to Covid-19 guidelines issued by the Ministry of the Interior (MHA).
The festival is popularly and prominently celebrated in Gujarat, Maharashtra, West Bengal, and the southern state of Karnataka.
In West Bengal, the last four days of Navratri are celebrated with much pomp and enthusiasm and are known as Durga Puja.
Also known as Sharad Navratri, the occasion is believed to mark the victory of the goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura, signifying the victory of good over evil.
Jyoti Kalash, Kumari Puja, Sandhi Puja, Navami Homa, Lalitha Vrat, and Chandi Path are other famous rituals and events observed during the nine days of Navratri. The 10th day of Sharad Navratri is celebrated as Dussehra or Vijaya Dashami.
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