Durga Ashtami in March 2026 Date, Time; Maha Gauri Puja, Panchang Shubh Muhurat, Vrat, Kanya Pujan Rituals

Durga Ashtami, also known as Mahashtami, will be observed with great devotion during Chaitra Navratri in March 2026. Considered one of the most sacred days of the nine-day festival, Ashtami is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga, particularly her eighth form, Maa Maha Gauri. Devotees across India observe fasts, perform special prayers, and take part in rituals to seek blessings for peace, strength, and prosperity.

Durga Ashtami in March 2026 Date, Time: Chaitra Navratri Ashtami Tithi, Maha Gauri Puja Shubh Muhurat As Per Panchang & Hindu Calendar

According to the Drik Panchang, the Ashtami tithi began on March 25, 2026, at 1:50 PM and end on March 26, 2026, at 11:48 AM.

25 or 26 March? When is Ashtami?

However, as per the Udaya Tithi (sunrise rule), Durga Ashtami will be observed on March 26, 2026 (Thursday). This means most devotees will perform fasting, Kanya Pujan and special prayers on March 26.

Sandhi Puja Muhurat

One of the most significant rituals of the day is Sandhi Puja, performed during the transition period of Ashtami and Navami. In 2026, the Sandhi Puja Muhurat is from 11:24 AM to 12:12 PM on March 26.

Devotees consider this time highly auspicious for offering prayers to Goddess Durga.

Kanya Pujan, Kumari Puja & Kanjak Timings; Shubh Muhurat

Kanya Pujan, or Kumari Puja or Kanjak is one of the most important rituals of Durga Ashtami. Young girls are worshipped as forms of Maa Durga and offered food and gifts.

The auspicious timings for Kanya Pujan on March 26, 2026, are:

First Muhurat: 6:18 AM to 7:50 AM

Second Muhurat: 10:55 AM to 3:31 PM

During this ritual, devotees typically serve prasad such as halwa, puri, black chana and kheer, believing it brings prosperity and happiness into the home.

Durga Ashtami Vrat and Rituals

The Ashtami fast (vrat) will be observed on March 26, 2026. Many devotees begin fasting from Saptami (March 25) and conclude it after Kanya Pujan on Ashtami or Navami.

The day is marked by chanting powerful mantras such as:
"Om Devi Maha Gaurya Namah" and "Om Sarva Mangal Mangalayayei Shive Sarvartha Sadhike, Sharanyayi Triambike Gauri Narayani Namostute."

Ram Navami 2026 Date, Time, Puja Shubh Muhurat

Ram Navami, which marks the birth of Lord Ram, will follow immediately after Ashtami. In 2026, Navami Tithi will begin on March 26 at 11:48 AM and end on March 27 at 10:06 AM.

As per Udaya Tithi, Ram Navami will be celebrated on March 27, 2026 (Friday). The Madhyahna Muhurat for Ram Navami is from 11:13 AM to 1:41 PM.

Kanya Pujan can also be performed on Navami, especially for those who could not do it on Ashtami.

Religious Significance of Durga Ashtami

Durga Ashtami holds deep spiritual importance as it represents the victory of divine energy over negative forces. The day is dedicated to Maa Maha Gauri, symbolising purity, calmness, and wisdom.

According to scriptures, after defeating evil forces, the Goddess was worshipped by various deities, highlighting her role as a protector and source of strength. Devotees see this day as an opportunity to express gratitude, seek blessings, and strengthen their faith.