Maha Ashtami
NepaliAlso known as: Durga Ashtami, Kalaratri
Maha Ashtami
About Maha Ashtami
Maha Ashtami is the eighth day of Bada Dashain, celebrated with great intensity across Nepal. It commemorates the fierce battle between Goddess Durga and the demon Mahishasura.
On this day, the most important rituals of Dashain are performed, including the worship of the eight forms of the Goddess (Ashta Matrika).
In Kathmandu, special pujas are performed at the Taleju Temple and other major temples. The day is a public holiday.
Vrat Vidhi & Fasting Rules
Many devotees observe fasting or eat only sattvic food on Maha Ashtami.
- Wake up before dawn and take a ritual bath.
- Visit temples for special Ashtami pujas.
- Worship the eight forms of the Goddess (Ashta Matrika).
- Participate in the traditional sacrifice ceremonies.
Parana (Breaking Fast) Note: The fast is broken after the Ashtami puja with a feast.
Puja Samagri & Ritual Steps
- Clean and decorate the puja area with flowers and silk.
- Offer prayers to the eight forms of the Goddess.
- Perform the traditional sacrifice ceremony.
- Distribute prasad and share the feast.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Ashta Matrika refers to the eight forms of the Divine Mother worshipped on Maha Ashtami.
Note: All timings are represented in 24-hour notation in local time of the selected location with DST adjustment (if applicable).
Hours which are past midnight are suffixed with next day date. In Panchang, a day starts and ends with local sunrise.
Recommended Pages
Comprehensive annual Hindu calendar with tithis and festivals.
Detailed month-wise view of lunar tithis and celestial events.
Marathi Panchang and festive dates for the year.
Gujarati Vikram Samvat calendar and festivals.
Telugu calendar and festive Panchangam details.
Tamil solar calendar dates and monthly Panchangam.