Navratri is going to start on October 15 this year, and it will go on till October 24. We have often heard that it is significant to fast during this time, as it could bring blessings to one’s life. It is believed that fasting on the day of Ashtami — known as Ashtami Vrat — is considered very special, as Goddess Durga will bestow their devotees with her blessings and fulfil all your wishes. A famous astrologer from Deoghar, Jharkhand, Pandit Nandkishore Mudgal talks about the significance of observing fast Ashtami Vrat. One must try to fast on all nine days of the festival. For some reason, if they are unable to do so, they can please Goddess Durga by fasting on the day of Ashtami. By doing this, they will be able to make the Goddess happy. This year, Ashtami will be observed on October 22. This is also the day of Kanya Pujan, where nine girls are celebrated or worshipped as the nine forms of Goddess Durga.

As per reports, Ashtami tithi will start at 9:55 pm on October 21, Saturday, and it will end at 8:05 p.m., the next day, on October 22. The Sarvartha Siddhi Yoga and Ravi Yoga are also scheduled for this day, which are believed to be very auspicious.

Navratri is celebrated all over India with great pomp and enthusiasm. On these nine auspicious days, the nine forms of Goddess Durga are worshipped. People celebrate the occasion by performing dances in honour of the goddess. They wear beautiful and colourful costumes. Devotees display Goddess Durga idols in their homes and temples. These idols are decorated with flowers and offerings.

From the first day to the third day, Durga is worshipped as the goddess of power. From the fourth to the sixth day, Lakshmi is worshipped, who is the goddess of wealth. On the seventh and eighth day, Saraswati is worshipped, the goddess of wisdom and knowledge. The ninth day is for Kanya Pujan, where all forms of the goddess are worshipped.