October 18 or 19? Know Correct Maha Ashtami Date, Vrat and Puja Timings
During Sharadiya Navratri, devotees worship Goddess Durga in her eight forms, with Maha Ashtami considered one of the most important days of the festival. However, confusion often arises over whether Ashtami should be observed on October 18 or October 19.
In 2026, Sharadiya Navratri begins on October 11, while Navratri celebrations conclude with Vijayadashami on October 20. According to the given Panchang calculations, October 19 is the main date for Maha Ashtami observance.
Here is the detailed calculation of the Ashtami Tithi, along with the puja, fasting and Sandhi Puja timings.
When Does Ashtami Tithi Begin and End?
According to the Panchang:
- Ashtami Tithi begins: October 18, 2026, at 8:27 PM
- Ashtami Tithi ends: October 19, 2026, at 10:51 AM
- Maha Ashtami: October 19, 2026
Since Ashtami is present at sunrise on October 19, the main observance of Maha Ashtami falls on Monday, October 19.
When Should Maha Ashtami Vrat and Puja Be Performed?
Night Worship on October 18
Some families and practitioners who traditionally perform their Kuldevi or special Tantric worship at night may observe the ritual on the night of October 18.
This is because the Ashtami Tithi will have already begun at 8:27 PM on October 18.
Main Vrat and Puja on October 19
According to the traditional Udaya Tithi principle, Hindu festivals and fasts are generally determined by the Tithi prevailing at sunrise.
Since Ashtami will be present at sunrise on October 19, the main Maha Ashtami vrat, Kanya Puja and Havan will be observed on October 19, 2026. ALSO READ: Navratri : 3 stories for Adi Shakti
Auspicious Puja Muhurat on October 19
Devotees planning their Maha Ashtami worship can consider the following auspicious periods:
- Abhijit Muhurat: 11:43 AM to 12:29 PM
- Vijay Muhurat: 2:00 PM to 2:45 PM
- Godhuli Muhurat: 5:48 PM to 6:13 PM
Choghadiya Timings for October 19
The Choghadiya periods listed for the day are:
- Amrit: 6:24 AM to 7:50 AM
- Shubh: 9:15 AM to 10:40 AM
- Labh: 2:57 PM to 4:22 PM
- Amrit: 4:22 PM to 5:48 PM
- Char: 5:48 PM to 7:22 PM
Devotees can select a suitable period according to their family traditions and local Panchang.
Sandhi Puja: The Special 48-Minute Period
Sandhi Puja is considered one of the most significant rituals associated with Maha Ashtami.
According to the given Panchang calculation, the Sandhi Puja period will be:
October 19, 2026, from 10:27 AM to 11:15 AM
The total duration will be 48 minutes.
Why Is Sandhi Kaal Important?
According to traditional Hindu belief, Sandhi Kaal is the period when Ashtami is ending and Navami is beginning.
The final 24 minutes of Ashtami and the first 24 minutes of Navami together form a 48-minute period known as Sandhi Kaal.
This period is traditionally considered especially sacred for Goddess Durga worship.
What Is the Story Behind Sandhi Puja?
According to Hindu mythology, it was during this transitional period that Goddess Durga is believed to have assumed her fierce Chamunda form and defeated the demons Chanda and Munda.
Because of this association, special worship of Goddess Chamunda is traditionally performed during Sandhi Kaal.
In some traditions, devotees offer 108 lotus flowers to the Goddess and light 108 lamps during the 48-minute Sandhi Puja. Special forms of worship and Tantric rituals are also associated with this period in certain traditions.
Disclaimer: The content provided here is based on beliefs and information only. Always consult a concerned expert.
