Kashi Marks Mahashtami With Maa Mahagauri Worship, Kanya Pujan

On Mahashtami of Sharadiya Navratri, Kashi witnessed a special atmosphere of devotion and faith on Sunday, 18 October. Temples echoed with chants and slogans in praise of Goddess Durga as devotees gathered to worship Maa Mahagauri, the eighth form of the goddess.

Devotees began arriving at temples from the morning for darshan. Special prayers and aarti were organised at temples on the occasion. Amid the chanting of mantras and devotional slogans in the temple premises, devotees bowed their heads at the feet of the goddess and sought her blessings.

Devotees worshipped Maa Mahagauri according to prescribed rituals and prayed for happiness, prosperity and well-being in their families. The festival in Kashi was observed with faith, devotion and enthusiasm. The worship of Goddess Durga made the entire atmosphere appear devotional.

Kanya Pujan was also held in homes and puja pandals on this auspicious occasion. Devotees served food to girls and presented them with gifts, honouring them as forms of the goddess. At several places, prasad was distributed along with religious rituals.

On Mahashtami, the entire religious city of Kashi appeared immersed in devotion. Devotees prayed to Maa Durga for happiness, peace and prosperity to continue in their families, society and the country.