In Jaipur’s bustling Raja Park, crowds of devotees poured into the Vaishno Devi temple on the eighth day of Sharadiya Navratri, known as Maha Ashtami. The festive energy kicked off early in the morning on September 30, with worshippers arriving to pay homage to the specially dressed goddess idol.
Temple priest Pandit Madan Mohan shared the day’s deep spiritual meaning. “Today, we honor Mahagauri, the eighth form of the divine feminine power in Navratri,” he said. “Those who fast and follow rituals for eight days earn her special blessings.”
He also touched on why Navratri matters so much. This nine-day festival cleanses the mind, body, and even wealth, filling people with fresh energy while chasing away illnesses and hardships. A key highlight on Maha Ashtami is Kanya Pujan, where families invite eight-year-old girls into their homes. They gently wash the girls’ feet and treat them like the goddess herself. This simple act delights Mahagauri, bringing joy, prosperity, and endless blessings to the household. Mahagauri, with her soft smile, even represents Annapurna Mata, the goddess of abundance and plentiful harvests.
Mahagauri, the eighth of Goddess Durga’s nine forms, gets her name from her glowing, snow-white appearance—meaning “extremely white” or radiant. An ancient legend explains her beauty: To win Lord Shiva’s love, she endured tough penance that covered her in dust and darkened her skin. Once Shiva agreed to marry her, he bathed her in the holy Ganges water, turning her back to her pure, luminous self.
Devotees see Mahagauri as a beacon of purity, peace, and calm. Worshipping her helps wash away old sins, sparking inner wisdom and serenity during Navratri celebrations.
Kanya Puja adds a touching layer to Maha Ashtami. Young, unmarried girls—seen as living embodiments of the goddess—receive special foods, clothes, and gifts as offerings. This ritual, blending Ashtami and Navami, strengthens the festival’s spirit of devotion and community in places like Jaipur’s Vaishno Devi shrine.
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.
