Overview

• Durga Ashtami, observed on April 5, 2025, is dedicated to worshipping Mahagauri, symbolizing purity and divine grace.
• Key rituals include Kanya Pujan, performed between 11:59 AM and 12:49 PM, where nine young girls are honored as embodiments of the goddess.
• Devotees gather at major temples like Vaishno Devi and Jhandewalan, participating in prayers, offerings, and traditional bhog preparation.
• The Ashtami Tithi began on April 4 at 8:12 PM and concludes on April 5 at 7:26 PM, as per Hindu lunar calendar calculations.
• Traditional bhog offerings of poori, halwa, and kala chana are prepared, symbolizing devotion, nourishment, and abundance.