Chaitra Navratri 2026 Kanya Puja: Chaitra Navratri is going to start in the year 2026. This time Chaitra Navratri will start from 19th March and continue till 27th March. During Navratri, Kanya Puja is considered to have special significance on Ashtami and Navami Tithi.
It is believed that on this day, small girls are considered to be the form of Mother Durga and are worshiped and fed. In many homes, Ashtami is worshiped and in many homes, Kanya Puja is done on Navami. In such a situation, there is always a question in the minds of people that how many girls should be fed on Navratri.
Why is Kanya Puja performed?
Kanya Puja, also known as Kumari Puja, is a very important and sacred ritual of Navratri. This Kanya Puja is done especially on the day of Ashtami or Navami. Kanya Puja is not just a tradition of giving food or gifts to little girls. It is a deeply spiritual way of honoring the divine feminine power (Shakti).
How many girls should be there in Kanya Puja?
In Hindu tradition, nine little girls aged between 2 and 10 years are believed to be living manifestations of Goddess Durga (Navadurga). At many places a tenth child (boy) is also called, who is considered a symbol of Bhairav. According to religious beliefs, feeding 9 girls during Kanya Puja is considered most auspicious. However, sometimes 9 girls are not available together, so in such a situation 3, 5 or 7 girls can also be fed with devotion.
How to do Kanya Puja
In Kanya Puja, washing feet, offering food, touching her feet and taking blessings, giving love and respect is not just a ritual. This is a reminder that Shakti is not only in strong or fierce form, but also in innocent, pure and gentle form.