Durga Maha Ashtami is one of the most auspicious days during the entire Durga puja. Sandhi Puja is a traditional puja that is held on this day. It focuses on celebrating the victory of good over evil, light over darkness, and wisdom over ignorance. Durga Maa slayed demons on the cusp of Ashtami and Navami. Want to know more about Sandhi Puja? Keep reading.
Why Do Bengalis Celebrate Sandhi Puja?
- ‘Sandhi’ means a junction and Sandhi Puja is performed during the last 24 minutes of Ashtami and the first 24 minutes of Navami. These 48 minutes are the most auspicious time of Durga Puja.
- It is believed in Hindu mythology that when the battle between Durga and Mahishasura was going on, his allies, Chanda and Munda, sneaked up on Durga Maa. This deceitful attack enraged Maa too much as it was against battle rules.
- Maa’s face started turning blue out of extreme rage. She opened her divine and beautiful third eye and the avatar of Chamunda emerged from it. It was the spine-chilling form of Kali Maa.
- Chamunda killed Chanda and Munda and thus, Sandhi Puja is observed to worship the great avatar of Kali Maa as Chamunda in the form of Durga Maa.
Also Read: Dhaak Beats, Ulu Dhoni And Durga Maa! But What Is Sindoor Khela And Why Is It Celebrated?
The Significance Of This Auspicious Puja
- The period of Sandhi is believed to have the best and strongest energies in the universe which becomes an ideal moment for the worshippers.
- It glorifies the divine female power, and victory of good, and celebrates the emergence of light and great wisdom.
- Another avatar of Durga Maa is also worshipped and that is Mahagauri. She is worshipped for fulfilling desires of good health, happiness, prosperity, and beauty.
What Are The Rituals Followed During This Worship?
The rituals of Sandhi Puja have great powerful and transformational effects.
- The people participating in this auspicious puja have to fast from when Ashtami starts till the Sandhi puja is over at Navami.
- 108 diyas or lamps are lit because it symbolises the arrival of light over darkness.
- Devotees give ulu dhoni, a loud-pitched sound that is made by rolling tongues, to ward away all the negativity and evil eyes.
- Next, 108 lotus flowers are offered to Maa to represent beauty and life. 108 garlands of stone apple leaves, sarees, jewellery, and fruits are also offered.
- The numerical 108 is crucial because it signifies the 108 names of Durga Maa.
- The Shankh is blown to eliminate bad energy and holy water is sprinkled.
- Aarti is performed, followed by havan to complete the whole puja.
Also Read: What Is The Significance Of Shiuli Phool In Durga Puja & What Other Flowers Are Offered To Maa?
Joy Maa Dugga!
Cover Image Credits: Wikimedia Commons
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