How to Perform Kanya Puja During Navratri: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Navratri is one of the most sacred Hindu festivals celebrated with devotion across India. It honors Goddess Durga and her nine divine forms. Among the many rituals performed, Kanya Puja holds a very special place. In this ritual, young girls are worshipped as a living form of the Goddess herself.

But why are young girls worshipped? What makes this ritual so important? And how can you perform it step by step at home? Let’s understand everything about Kanya Puja during Navratri in simple detail.

 

What is Kanya Puja?

 

Kanya Puja, also called Kumari Puja, is a spiritual ritual where little girls are considered as Goddess Durga and worshipped with devotion. This puja is done mostly on Ashtami or Navami during Navratri.

In Hindu belief, girls between the ages of 2 to 10 years are treated as “Navdurga” or nine forms of Maa Durga. By worshipping them, devotees believe they directly please the Goddess and receive her blessings.

 

Importance of Kanya Puja in Navratri

 

 

The heart of Navratri lies in honoring feminine energy. Worshipping young girls is seen as respecting divine shakti. It reminds us that purity and innocence are forms of divinity.

Performing Kanya Puja is not just about tradition. It also teaches us to value women and children in society. Families believe that the Goddess herself visits their homes through these little girls.

 

Significance of Kanya Puja in Navratri

 

Why Are Young Girls Worshipped?

 

In Hinduism, Goddess Durga represents power, protection, and motherly love. Little girls reflect these qualities in their purest form. Worshipping them is equal to worshipping the Goddess.

 

Cultural and Spiritual Importance

 

Across generations, families perform Kanya Puja to keep spiritual traditions alive. It connects us with our culture while spreading love and respect for the feminine spirit.

 

Benefits of Performing Kanya Puja

 

Devotees believe Kanya Puja brings peace, prosperity, and good health. It removes negative energies and fulfills wishes. Many also perform it to thank Maa Durga for her protection.

 

When to Perform Kanya Puja?

 

Auspicious Days

 

Kanya Puja is usually performed on Durga Ashtami (eighth day) or Maha Navami (ninth day) of Navratri. Some families prefer Ashtami, while others wait till Navami. Both days are considered equally powerful.

 

Best Time of the Day

 

Morning is the best time to perform the ritual. Devotees usually follow the puja muhurat based on the local Panchang (Hindu calendar). However, if morning is not possible, puja can also be performed before noon.

 

Who Should Be Worshipped in Kanya Puja?

 

Number of Girls

 

Traditionally, nine girls are invited, representing the nine forms of Durga. But if nine are not possible, at least two girls can be worshipped. What matters most is devotion.

 

Age Group of Girls

 

The girls should be between 2 to 10 years old. Each age is believed to represent a specific form of the Goddess, from Kumari to Subhadra.

 

Inclusion of a Boy

 

In some traditions, a small boy is also included, called Langura or Batuk. He represents Lord Shiva’s childlike form and is worshipped alongside the girls.

 

Preparation for Kanya Puja

 

Cleanliness and Setup

 

Before beginning the puja, clean the home and especially the puja space. Purify the area with Ganga jal or clean water. Decorate the altar with flowers, a kalash, and a diya. Place a red cloth on the platform and keep all items ready.

 

Things Required for Kanya Puja

 

Kalash, diya, roli, chawal, and flowers

Bhog items: halwa, puri, and chana

Fruits, sweets, and coconut

Red chunari, bangles, and gifts for the girls

 

Step-by-Step Vidhi of Kanya Puja

 

Step 1: Inviting the Kanyas

 

Invite the girls respectfully and welcome them with folded hands. Offer them a seat, usually on a clean mat or low stool. Treat them as honored guests.

 

Step 2: Washing Feet and Applying Tilak

 

Gently wash the feet of each girl with clean water. This act is a symbol of respect and purity. Then apply kumkum and rice tilak on their forehead.

 

Step 3: Offering Prasad (Bhog)

 

Serve them the traditional food prepared for this day — halwa, puri, and chana. Along with this, offer fruits, sweets, and water. Serve them with love as if you are offering food to the Goddess herself.

 

Step 4: Aarti and Mantras

 

Perform an aarti of the girls by lighting a diya. Sing or recite Durga aarti and Navratri mantras. This spreads divine energy in the home and creates a spiritual atmosphere.

 

Step 5: Giving Dakshina and Gifts

 

After the meal, offer each girl gifts such as bangles, red chunari, stationery, or clothes. Also, give them some dakshina (money) as a blessing. Touch their feet and seek their blessings.

 

Rules, Do’s, and Don’ts of Kanya Puja

 

Do’s

 

Maintain cleanliness and devotion throughout the ritual.

Treat the girls with respect and affection.

Prepare fresh and sattvic (pure vegetarian) food.

 

Don’ts

 

Do not cook or serve food containing onion, garlic, or non-vegetarian items.

Do not show disrespect or impatience towards the girls.

Avoid performing the puja in a hurry; it should be done calmly.

 

Spiritual Benefits of Kanya Puja

 

Performing Kanya Puja during Navratri is believed to bring countless blessings. It is said that Maa Durga grants health, wealth, and happiness to the family.

Devotees also believe this puja removes obstacles and protects the home from negative energy. Many people perform it for the fulfillment of personal wishes. Above all, it brings peace of mind and spiritual satisfaction.

 

Conclusion

 

Kanya Puja during Navratri is more than just a ritual — it is a celebration of feminine power, purity, and innocence. By worshipping young girls as Maa Durga, we not only follow a sacred tradition but also honor the divine presence within every woman.

When performed with true devotion, Kanya Puja brings prosperity, happiness, and spiritual strength. It reminds us that Goddess Durga lives within us and blesses everyone who respects her in the form of little girls.

This blog is written by Narayanam