In Hinduism, the Ashtami Tithi (eighth day) of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the moon) of every month is known as মাসিক দুর্গাष्टमी (Masik Durgashtami). This day is considered highly auspicious for the worship of Maa Durga. Those who observe a fast and perform rituals on this day receive the special blessings of Maa Durga.
Significance and Date of Shravan Maas Durgashtami
In the year 2025, the Masik Durgashtami of the month of Shravan will fall on Friday, August 1st. The Ashtami Tithi will begin at 04:58 AM on this day and will last until 07:23 AM on August 2nd. This Tithi is considered spiritually significant, as the month of Shravan already holds religious importance, and the significance of worshipping the Goddess increases manifold during this month.
Morning Time for Puja is More Fruitful
The morning time is considered special in this fast. On this day, the observer wakes up early in the morning, takes a bath, and worships Maa Durga. The temple in the house is cleaned, sprinkled with Ganga water, and the worship begins by placing the idol or picture of the Goddess.
How to Perform Masik Durgashtami Puja:
Bath and Resolution to Fast
Wake up in the Brahma Muhurta (early morning hours) and take a bath, and wear clean clothes. After purifying the place of worship, sit in front of Goddess Durga and take a vow to fast.
Installation and Decoration of Maa Durga
Install the idol or picture of Maa Durga on a clean platform covered with a red cloth. Then light a lamp and start the worship with incense sticks. Offer red flowers, vermilion, kumkum, अक्षत (Akshat - unbroken rice grains), bangles, and items of sixteen adornments (Solah Shringar) to the Goddess.
Special Importance of Offering Bhog and Reciting पाठ (Path)
Offer fruits, sweets, coconut, and Panchamrit (a mixture of milk, yogurt, honey, sugar, and ghee) to the Goddess as Bhog (offering). After this, recite Durga Chalisa, Durga Saptashati, or chant the mantra "ॐ दुं दुर्गायै नमः" (Om Dum Durgaye Namah) at least 108 times.
Mental Strength is Obtained Through Aarti and Meditation
At the end of the puja, perform Aarti (a ritual of worship with light) of Maa Durga and meditate on her with all your heart. On the day of the fast, one should consume sattvic food (pure and vegetarian) and remain engrossed in devotion throughout the day while keeping the mind calm.
Charity is Considered Meritorious:
Special Significance of Helping the Needy
Donation also holds special importance on the day of Masik Durgashtami. On this day, people donate food, clothes, or other useful items to the poor and needy. This not only earns merit but also brings an experience of positive energy.
Those Observing the Fast Should Keep These Things in Mind
Those who are fasting on this day should especially follow sattvic principles. Food items made with onion and garlic should not be consumed, and more and more time should be spent in bhajans (devotional songs), mantras, and पाठ (Path - recitation of religious texts).
Durgashtami is a Symbol of Auspiciousness
The fast of Masik Durgashtami is considered beneficial not only from a spiritual point of view but also mentally. It brings strength, confidence, and peace to the mind. This is the reason why devotees eagerly wait for this date every month and celebrate it methodically.
