Mumbai: Kanjak, also known as Kanjak Puja or Kanya Pujan, is a deeply revered ritual performed during Chaitra Navratri, particularly in Northern India. It is observed on the eighth or ninth day of the festival, aligning with Durga Ashtami or Navami. This year, Kanjak Puja will be celebrated on April 6. The ritual involves worshipping young girls, typically between the ages of 2 and 10, as they are believed to embody the pure and divine feminine energy of Goddess Durga.
This sacred tradition holds immense spiritual significance, as it symbolises the reverence and gratitude towards the feminine divine and acknowledges the vital role of women and girls in society. By honouring these young girls, devotees seek the blessings of Goddess Durga for prosperity, good health, and happiness. It is a way of recognising the power, grace, and strength that the Goddess represents while instilling values of respect and admiration for women from a young age.
During the ceremony, the young girls—who are treated as living embodiments of the Goddess—are welcomed with great devotion. They are seated, their feet are washed as a mark of respect, and they are offered a special prasad consisting of traditional dishes such as halwa (a sweet semolina dish), puri (fried bread), and chana (black gram). These sacred offerings are not just a meal but a representation of divine nourishment and blessings.
After the rituals, it is customary to present gifts to the Kanjak girls as a token of appreciation and as a way of expressing gratitude for their presence in the ceremony. These gifts hold special meaning, as they serve as a gesture of love, blessings, and goodwill. Choosing thoughtful and meaningful gifts for Kanjak can make the occasion even more special and memorable. Here are some wonderful gift ideas that can add joy to this auspicious celebration.
Kanjak gifts under 50
Here are Kanjak gift ideas under Rs 50:
- Bangles and jewellery: Adornments like bangles, necklaces, or earrings that celebrate their femininity.
- Books or storybooks: Age-appropriate books or storybooks that can inspire and entertain them, fostering a love for reading.
- Colouring books: Age-appropriate colouring books or storybooks that can help them showcase their creativity.
- Art supplies: A set of colouring books, crayons, or watercolour paints to spark their creativity and provide hours of entertainment.
- Sticker sets: Fun sticker sets featuring their favourite themes or characters for decorating their belongings.
- Fashion accessories: Trendy bags, scarves, or headbands that can complement their festive attire.
- Customised jewellery: Personalised name necklaces or charm bracelets that add a special touch to their accessory collection.
- Decorative bindi box: A beautifully designed box filled with colourful and intricate bindis for their festive looks.
- Artisan chocolates: A box of gourmet chocolates, beautifully packaged for a sweet treat.
- Cartoon rings: Girls like to wear cartoon rings and this gift will make them extremely happy.
- Hair accessories: Pretty clips and bands to adorn Kanjak’s hair with style.
- Fancy pens: Colourful pens with fun designs to make writing more enjoyable.
- Handkerchiefs: Colourful handkerchiefs with cute patterns for everyday use.
- Pencil boxes: Pencil boxes or pouches to keep their stationary like erasers, pencils, rulers etc.
- Chocolates and toffees – A small pack of assorted chocolates or toffees will delight the kids.
- Bubble bottles – Small bottles of bubble solution for playful fun. 🫧
- Sketch Pens – Small packs of colours for creative fun.
- Balloons pack – A set of colourful balloons for playful joy.
- Small Devotional Idol or Poster – Images or mini Idols of Goddess Durga.
- Handmade beaded bracelets – Beautiful ethnic bracelets for little wrists.
Kanjak gifts under 100
Here are Kanjak gift ideas under Rs 100:
- Personalised mugs or water bottles: Cute mugs or water bottles with their names or favourite characters printed on them.
- Mini puzzles or games: You can gift them mini puzzles or games which involve some mental exercise.
- Stationery sets: Colourful pencils and notepads for learning and creativity.
- Colourful dupatta sets: They can match with their ethnic outfits.
- Soft toys (Mini plushies) – Tiny stuffed animals or cartoon characters.
- Lunch box with cartoon prints – A practical and fun gift.
- Crafted home decor: Handmade decor items like wall hangings or decorative pieces to add to their rooms.
- Playdough or clay kits: Creative kits that allow them to mould and create their sculptures or shapes.
- Eco-friendly products: Sustainable gifts like reusable tote bags or bamboo lunch boxes that promote environmental consciousness.
- Festive nail art kit: A nail art set with vibrant colours and decorative stickers for them to create festive nail designs.
- Gourmet snack box: A curated box of healthy snacks, nuts, or sweets for indulging during the festive season.
- Fancy socks – Cute and comfy essentials with fun prints.
- Cartoon-themed hand towels – Soft and practical gifts.
- A set of nail paints (Child-friendly) – Fun and safe mini nail polish sets.
- Colouring book with sketch pens – A complete art set for young artists.
The essence of Kanjak Puja lies in honouring and cherishing the divine feminine energy that these young girls represent. A thoughtful gift, no matter how small, is a beautiful way to show love, respect, and appreciation. By selecting meaningful and joyful gifts, you not only bring a smile to their faces but also add warmth and significance to the celebrations.
This Chaitra Navratri, make Kanjak Puja more special by choosing gifts that reflect love, tradition, and blessings. Whether it’s colourful bangles, storybooks, or creative art kits, these budget-friendly options under Rs 50 and 100 will surely make the little Goddesses feel cherished and valued.
Kanjak Puja is a sacred tradition that honours young girls as embodiments of Goddess Durga. A meaningful part of this celebration is offering gifts as a token of love and blessings. If you’re looking for the best Kanjak gifts under Rs 50 and100, here are some thoughtful and delightful options to make this occasion extra special. Events Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips
