New Delhi: Kanya Pujan is one of the most important rituals of Navratri. It is performed to honour young girls as forms of Maa Durga. For many families, this ritual brings a sense of completion to the nine days of fasting and prayer.

If you are observing Chaitra Navratri 2026, knowing the correct Kanya Pujan date, muhurat, puja vidhi, and rules will help you perform the ritual in the right way.

During Chaitra Navratri 2026, Kanya Pujan can be performed on:

• Durga Ashtami: 26 March 2026 (Thursday)
• Navami: 27 March 2026 (Friday)

Both days are considered auspicious. Most devotees prefer Ashtami, while some perform it on Navami based on family tradition.

The best time for Kanya Pujan is during the daytime after morning puja.

• Ideal timing: Morning to midday
  
• Sandhi Puja Muhurat (Ashtami): 11:24 AM to 12:12 PM

It is advised to avoid late evening or night for this ritual.

Kanya Pujan is the ritual of worshipping young girls, usually between 2 and 10 years, as forms of the Goddess. Each girl is believed to represent one of the Navadurga.

In many traditions, one young boy (called Langur or Batuk) is also invited, symbolising Lord Bhairav.

Follow this simple and correct method for Kanya Pujan at home:

1. Invite the Kanjaks

Invite 9 young girls if possible. If not, even 2 or 5 girls can be worshipped.

2. Welcome Them Respectfully

Receive them with respect and seat them in the puja area.

3. Wash Their Feet

Wash their feet gently with clean water. This step shows humility and devotion.

4. Apply Tilak

Apply kumkum and rice (akshat) on their forehead.

5. Offer Bhog

Serve traditional Navratri prasad:

• Puri
  
• Kala chana
  
• Halwa

Ensure the food is fresh and sattvic.

6. Give Gifts and Dakshina

Offer small gifts such as:

• Fruits
• Money
  
• Bangles or small items

7. Seek Blessings

Touch their feet and take blessings before they leave.

To perform Kanya Pujan correctly, keep these points in mind:

• Maintain cleanliness in the puja area
  
• Use fresh and pure ingredients
  
• Do not taste the food before offering
  
• Treat the girls with respect and patience
  
• Offer food before eating yourself
  
• Keep your mind calm and focused

Kanya Pujan has deep spiritual meaning. It reminds us that divine energy exists in simple forms.

This ritual represents:

• Worship of feminine energy (Shakti)
  
• Gratitude toward Maa Durga
  
• Completion of Navratri puja
  
• Blessings for prosperity and protection

It also reflects an important value in daily life, respect and care for others.

Many devotees believe that performing Kanya Pujan brings:

• Peace and positivity at home
• Removal of obstacles
  
• Blessings for success and growth
  
• Emotional and spiritual balance

1. When to do Kanya Pujan in 2026?

Kanya Pujan can be done on 26 March (Ashtami) or 27 March (Navami).

2. Is Kanya Pujan compulsory in Navratri?

No, but it is considered highly important in many traditions.

3. Can I do Kanya Pujan at home without a priest?

Yes, most families perform it at home without a priest.

4. What food is offered in Kanya Pujan?

Puri, kala chana, and halwa are the traditional offerings.

5. Can working people perform Kanya Pujan?

Yes, you can perform it in the morning or at a convenient time.

Kanya Pujan is not just a ritual. It is a simple and powerful way to express respect, gratitude, and devotion. By following the correct Kanya Pujan vidhi, muhurat, and rules, you can complete your Navratri worship in a meaningful way.

(Written by: Tanya Singh, Astropatri.com. For feedback, please write to hello@astropatri.com.)