Mumbai: During the auspicious festival of Chaitra Navratri, the worship of Goddess Durga holds special significance. One of the key rituals observed during this time is Kanya Pujan, which takes place on Ashtami and Navami—the eighth and ninth days of Navratri. According to Hindu scriptures, the ritual of Navratri is considered incomplete without the observance of Kanya Pujan.
Kanya Pujan involves honouring young girls as divine manifestations of the Goddess. However, to receive the full spiritual benefits of this ritual, certain rules must be followed. Failing to observe these can diminish the blessings believed to be granted during this sacred ceremony.
Rules for Kanya Pujan
Below are the essential guidelines to follow while performing Kanya Pujan.
1. Choose a Clean and Sacred Space
The area where the puja is to be performed should be clean and sanctified. Conducting the ritual in a dirty or cluttered space is believed to displease the Goddess. It is customary to sprinkle Ganga Jal (holy water) throughout the home and especially at the puja site to purify the environment beforehand.
2. Do Not Perform the Ritual Without Bathing
Just as one prepares for any religious ceremony, it is essential to maintain personal cleanliness before performing Kanya Pujan. Devotees should bathe and wear fresh clothes. It is also customary to wash the hands and feet of the invited girls as a mark of respect and purity.
3. Number of Girls Matters
As per tradition, Kanya Pujan should be performed with an even number of girls—commonly 2, 5, 7, or 9. Odd numbers such as 1, 3, 6, or 8 are considered inauspicious for this ritual. Hence, it is important to invite girls in the auspicious even-numbered combinations only.
4. Avoid Negative Behaviour
Devotees should refrain from harbouring anger, pride, or any form of negativity during the ritual. The young girls are seen as embodiments of the Goddess herself, and thus must be treated with the utmost respect, humility, and devotion. Any disrespectful behaviour is believed to nullify the spiritual benefits of the puja.
5. Do Not Let the Girls Leave Empty-Handed
After the puja, the girls should be offered gifts, offerings (dakshina), fruits, or clothes according to one’s means. Allowing them to leave empty-handed is considered inauspicious and may displease Goddess Durga.
6. Always Offer Fresh, Sattvik Food
The food prepared for Kanya Pujan must be sattvik (pure and vegetarian), free from onion and garlic. It should be freshly cooked and hygienic. Offering stale or previously touched food is strictly discouraged as it is deemed inauspicious.
By observing these rules with sincerity and devotion, devotees can ensure that their Kanya Pujan is spiritually fulfilling and brings the blessings of the Goddess into their homes during Chaitra Navratri 2025.
(Disclaimer: The information provided is based on traditional beliefs and religious texts. News9 Live does not independently verify the religious significance of these rituals.)
Performing Kanya Pujan during Chaitra Navratri? Ensure maximum blessings by avoiding these common mistakes and following these sacred rituals with devotion and purity. Spirituality Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips
