Devotees across the country are observing Maha Ashtami today, marking one of the most significant days of Navratri 2025. The highlight of the day is Kumari Puja, also known as Kanya Puja, Kumarika Puja, or Kanjak Puja, a sacred ritual that honours young girls as living embodiments of Goddess Durga. Hindu scriptures recommend performing Kumari Puja on all nine days of Navratri—beginning with worshipping one girl on Day 1 and increasing the count each day until Navami. However, many devotees choose to perform the ritual specifically on Ashtami (eighth day) or Navami (ninth day). How Kanya Puja Is PerformedCleanse the Puja space and prepare offerings such as flowers, food, incense, turmeric, and vermilion.