On Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared heartfelt greetings for "Ashtami Puja" on the auspicious occasion of Navratri 2024. Posting on social media, the PM expressed his wishes, saying, "Warmest greetings to all my fellow citizens celebrating Maha Ashtami Puja. May Goddess Durga in her form as Maa Mahagauri bring joy, peace, and prosperity to everyone's lives."

Devotees Flock to Temples on Ashtami
Thousands of devotees gathered at the Maya Devi temple in Haridwar, Uttarakhand, on Ashtami. Many also participated in the ritual of taking a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam and offered prayers in Prayagraj on the same day.

Significance of Chaitra Navratri
Chaitra Navratri, also known as Vasant Navratri, holds special importance for Hindus as it marks a nine-day celebration during the spring season. On the eighth day, known as Ashtami, devotees worship Maa Mahagauri, depicted with four hands, holding a trident and a drum, riding a bull.

Timing of Ashtami Puja
The Ashtami Tithi for Ashtami Puja commenced at 12:11 on April 15, 2024, and concluded at 13:23 on April 16, 2024, according to Drik Panchang.

Description of Maa Mahagauri
Goddess Mahagauri, symbolizing purity and tranquility, is portrayed with a radiant complexion like the moon, draped in white attire, riding a bull. She is known by the names Shwetambardhara and Vrisharudha due to her association with the color white and her mount, the bull, respectively.

Navratri Celebrations
This year's Navratri festival, spanning from April 9 to April 17, involves the worship of Maa Durga and her nine manifestations, known as the Navadurgas. The festival concludes on Rama Navami, the birthday of Lord Ram, marking the end of the nine-day celebration.

Rituals During Chaitra Navratri
During Chaitra Navratri, devotees observe fasting and offer prayers to Goddess Durga. Ghatasthapana, the invocation of Goddess Shakti, is a significant ritual performed during this period. Navratri also emphasizes serenity and peacefulness through the worship of Maha Gauri Mata.

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