Understanding Kanya Puja Rituals During Chaitra Navratri 2026

Kanya Puja, a significant ritual during Chaitra Navratri, involves the worship of young girls as embodiments of Goddess Durga. Observed on Durgashtami and Mahanavami, this ceremony includes specific auspicious timings for performing the rituals. Devotees invite girls aged two to nine, offering them a special meal and gifts. The article details the steps to conduct Kanya Puja, the spiritual significance behind it, and the blessings associated with worshipping different age groups. Learn how to honor this tradition and invoke divine blessings during the festival.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 25, 2026, 12:58 IST

Kanya Puja Ritual Overview

Chaitra Navratri 2026 Kanya Puja Ritual: The *Kanya Puja* ceremony, which involves the worship of young girls, is traditionally observed on *Durgashtami* and *Mahanavami* during Chaitra Navratri. Devotees participating in this ritual may honor girls aged between two and nine, depending on their resources. A young boy is also included in the ceremony. On the day of Kanya Puja, a special *Bhog* (food offering) is prepared, featuring *Puri*, *Halwa*, black chickpeas, and coconut. It is believed that conducting Kanya Puja during Navratri brings the blessings of Goddess Durga, as these young girls are seen as representations of the Goddess. Each age group of girls, from two to nine, is thought to confer distinct blessings, and there are spiritual advantages linked to the number of girls worshipped, ranging from two to nine. Kanya Puja is also referred to as *Kumari Puja* or *Kanjak Puja*.

Auspicious Timings for Kanya Puja in 2026

Chaitra Navratri Kanya Puja Auspicious Timings 2026

Auspicious Time for Kanya Puja on Durgashtami: Durgashtami is on March 26th. The Kanya Puja can be performed during the *Shobhan Yoga* period, specifically from 06:18 AM to 07:50 AM, and again from 10:55 AM to 01:59 PM. The *Rahukal* (inauspicious time) will begin after this.

Auspicious Time for Kanya Puja on Mahanavami: Mahanavami occurs on March 27th. On this day, the *Ravi Yoga* and *Sarvartha Siddhi Yoga* are active throughout the morning. Kanya Puja can be conducted during the *Labh-Unnati Muhurat* (Auspicious Time for Gain and Progress) from 07:50 AM to 09:22 AM. Following this, the *Amrit-Sarvottam Muhurat* (Most Excellent Auspicious Time) is available from 09:22 AM to 10:54 AM, which also offers spiritual benefits when Kanya Puja is performed.

Steps for Conducting Kanya Puja

Kanya Puja Ritual

On the designated day for Kanya Puja in your home—whether it is Durgashtami or Mahanavami—rise early, perform your morning rituals (like bathing), and dress in clean attire.

Next, make a solemn vow (*Sankalp*) to observe the fast and carry out the worship. Follow the prescribed rituals to honor Goddess Durga. Invite a group of young girls, numbering between two and nine (2, 3, 4, or as many as your faith allows), to your home. These girls should be aged between two and nine years, and a young boy should accompany them.

Upon their arrival, warmly welcome the girls. Greet them with garlands and the sound of a conch shell. Provide them with comfortable seating.

The devotee observing the fast should first pay respects to the girls and the boy by touching their feet, followed by washing their feet with clean water.

Now, proceed with their worship using flowers, *Akshat* (sacred rice), *Roli* (vermilion), and garlands. Apply a *Tilak* (sacred mark) on their foreheads. Offer a red *Chunari* (sacred scarf) to the Mother Goddess. Tie a *Raksha Sutra* or *Kalava* (protective thread) around their wrists. During this ritual, you may recite mantras dedicated to Goddess Durga, the Gayatri Mantra, or similar prayers. If you cannot recall specific mantras, simply chant the holy names of Goddess Durga.

After the worship, serve them a meal that includes *Halwa*, *Puri*, black chickpeas (*Kala Chana*), fruits, sweets, and other treats.

Once they have completed their meal, present them with gifts according to your means. You may also choose to give them copies of the *Durga Chalisa* booklet.

As you bid farewell to the girls, offer your respects once more and invite them to return next year. This concludes the *Kanya Puja* (worship of young girls).