Maha Ashtami Observed Sept 29–30 During Navratri 2025

Maha Ashtami, the eighth day of Navratri dedicated to the worship of Maa Mahagauri, will be observed on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, with ritual timings running across the late evening of September 29 into September 30. Devotees across India will mark the day with fasting, special pujas, Kanya Puja and Sandhi Puja as communities prepare for the final days of the nine-day festival that culminates in Dashami, or Vijayadashami, on October 2.

According to Drik Panchang, Ashtami tithi begins at 4:31 PM on September 29 and ends at 6:06 PM on September 30. Navami tithi begins at 6:06 PM on September 30 and continues until 7:01 PM on October 1. Dashami tithi begins at 7:01 PM on October 1 and ends at 7:10 PM on October 2. Auspicious moments on Dashami include Vijay muhurat from 2:09 PM to 2:56 PM on October 2 and an Aparahna puja window from 1:21 PM to 3:44 PM on the same day.

Maa Mahagauri, the form of the goddess venerated on Ashtami, is traditionally depicted as fair-complexioned, serene and four-armed, carrying a trident and a drum while seated on a white bull. Devotees observe rituals intended to invoke purity, protection and inner strength. Common practices include early morning...