Durga Ashtami, the eighth day of the nine-day-long Navratri festival, is also known as Maha Ashtami. This year, Durga Ashtami is being observed today, October 22. On this day, Hindus worship Goddess Mahagauri who represents serenity and purity.
According to Hindu mythology, Maha Ashtami marks the day when Goddess Durga defeated the buffalo demon Mahishasura who had been terrorizing the gods and humans, and the gods were not able to attain victory over him.
Hence, they turned to Goddess Durga for help and she fought Mahishasura for nine days and night. Finally, on the tenth day, Goddess Durga defeated the demon and people celebrated the day of victory of good over evil.
Many devotees also observe fast on Durga Ashtami, offer their prayers, and seek blessings. Hindus across the country decorate their homes with flowers and lights. Hindus also conduct kanya puja on Durga Ashtami. Kanjakiya or kanya puja is performed on young girls who have not yet reached puberty.
Those kanjas are considered to be the purest form of the goddess. Devotees invite nine young girls to their homes and worship them.
On this auspicious day, may Maha Ashtami grant you the strength to overcome obstacles and find success in all your endeavors. Subho Maha Ashtami!