Durga Ashtami falls on the Ashtami tithi of Chaitra month in the Hindu calendar. Ashtami, in particular, is celebrated with a great passion and fervor, especially in West Bengal. The ten-armed goddess riding the lion is highly regarded in this part of the country and even the weapons of Goddess Durga are worshipped while reciting mantras in a ritual known as Astra Puja. Ashtami marks the eighth day of the festival and on this auspicious day, devotees tend to observe rigorous fast, feast and worship for Goddess Durga who symbolizes strength. A celebration of traditional culture and customs, massive idols of Goddess Durga are installed throughout India while enormous puja pandals are set up at various places for devotees to visit and worship.
Lore Behind Durga Ashtami
Durga Ashtami celebrates the victory of Goddess Durga over the evil buffalo demon, Mahishasura. Legend has it that owing to a boon bestowed upon it by Lord Brahma, Mahisasura could only be defeated by a female warrior. When Lord Indra was vanquished in the battlefield, the holy trinity, Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva, created Durga and each part of her body was blessed with strength with the energies of different male Gods. On this day, Durga Ashtami, she made use of the weapons that symbolized their masculine strength to defeat Mahisasura with her trident.
In this festival, women tend to take the center stage while being a stark reminder of how women used to hold a lot more power and status in ancient India. Here are some of the many myths associated with this festival:
- In certain parts of the country, especially West Bengal, Odisha and Assam, animal sacrifices are performed at temples to commemorate the occasion.
- In South India, computers, vehicles, books, & work equipment are worshiped on the ninth day as an expression of gratitude for the blessings received in the previous year. By offering the tools of their trade to God, one commits to performing all work as worship.
- On the day of Ashtami, before breaking the fast, nine girls below the age of ten are worshiped and are fed sumptuously and, amongst other things, presented with new clothes.