When is Ashtami? Durga Ashtami 2026
In Sharadiya Navratri 2026, Durga Ashtami (Maha Ashtami) falls on October 19, 2026, Monday. Ashtami tithi lasts from October 18, 8:29 am to October 19, 10:52 am. This time Ashtami and Navami fall on the same day. Sandhi Puja will be on October 19, from 10:28 am to 11:16 am (New Delhi).
Ashtami and Navami together? · Navratri niyam · Durga Chalisa · Jai Ambe Gauri · When is Dussehra
What to do on Maha Ashtami
- After the morning bath, worship Maa Mahagauri and offer a red chunri and coconut.
- Do kanya pujan while Ashtami tithi lasts: wash the feet of 9 girls and one boy, apply tilak, and offer puri, halwa and chana as bhog.
- In sandhi kaal, do Sandhi Puja with 108 diyas and 108 lotuses (or flowers).
- Read the Durga Saptashati or Durga Chalisa, and do the aarti Jai Ambe Gauri.
Frequently asked questions
When is Ashtami 2026?
In Sharadiya Navratri 2026, Durga Ashtami (Maha Ashtami) falls on October 19, 2026, Monday. Ashtami tithi lasts from October 18, 8:29 am to October 19, 10:52 am. This time Ashtami and Navami fall on the same day. Sandhi Puja will be on October 19, from 10:28 am to 11:16 am (New Delhi).
When should the kanya pujan of Ashtami be done?
On the morning of October 19, 2026, Monday, while Ashtami tithi lasts (before 10:52 am).
Which Devi is worshipped on Maha Ashtami?
Maa Mahagauri — the eighth form of Navdurga. Sandhi Puja is held on this day, and in many homes a havan too.
How many girls should be invited for kanya pujan?
9 girls aged 2 to 10 years and one boy (Langur/Bhairav). They are fed puri, halwa and black chana and given gifts.
Durga Ashtami 2026 date?
Durga Ashtami 2026: October 19, 2026. Sandhi Puja (New Delhi): 10:28 am–11:16 am.