New Delhi: Third day and final day of Navratri is known as Mahanavami. On this day Durga Puja begins with Mahasnan and Shodashopachar Puja. It is also the last day to worship Maa Durga before Vijaya Dashami.
On Mahanavami, Mahisasuramardini-Goddess Durga’s ninth form is worshipped. It is believed that on this day goddess Durga killed the demon Mahishasura.
As Maa Durga’s devotees keep fast on these days, making it very important for them to start their fast depending on starting time of Navami Tithi on previous day Maha Navami Puja and the devotees might keep their upwas on Ashtami Tithi.
There is also a rule which says that if Ashtami and Navami merge before Sanyakal on Ashtami Tithi then Ashtami Puja and Navami Puja including Sandhi Puja are done on the same day.
What is Durga Balidan?
On Maha Navami, Durga Balidan (Sacrifice) is always done on Uday Vyapini Navami Tithi. According to Nirnaysindhu the Uday Vyapini Navami Tithi is believed to be one of the most appropriate time to perform Balidan on Navami is Aparahna Kaal.
About Shub Muhurat
This year Maha Navami will be celebrated on October 4, Tuesday.
To keep oneself away from the doubt, you can check on this Choghadiya or Chogadia calender by Drikpanchang. This will help you in checking the auspicious or shubh muhurat.
What is Dussehra or Vijaya Dashami?
The 10th day or the last day of Sharad Navratri is celebrated as Dussehra or Vijaya Dashami.
This year, Sharad Navratri started on September 26 and will conclude on October 5.
