Maha Ashtami 2025 in Pune: Charity, Bhog, and Cultural Splendor at Congress Bhavan
Reported by Shoaib Tadvi, Sakshi Pandhare, and Amitava Basu
Shivajinagar, 30th September 2025: The 86th Greater Pune Sarbojanin Durgotsav, organized by Bangiya Sanskriti Samsad, marked Maha Ashtami with rituals, charity, and cultural festivities at Congress Bhavan, Shivajinagar.
The day began with a special morning puja led by the President, followed by charitable activities in the spirit of the festival. The Pujari, invited from Kolkata, conducted the rituals with devotion. As part of the offerings, a traditional bhog of khichdi, fried vegetables made with five pulses, and other delicacies was prepared and served to Goddess Durga. The bhog, in keeping with tradition, was strictly vegetarian and cooked without onion or garlic.
Devotees participated in Pushpanjali, offering flowers to the goddess with folded hands, while many observed Nirjala Upvas – fasting without water – as a mark of deep devotion.
One of the most significant rituals of the day was the Sandhi Puja, observed during the powerful 48-minute juncture between the last 24 minutes of Ashtami and the first 24 minutes of Navami, when Goddess Durga is worshipped as Chamunda. During this ritual, women devotees lit 108 diyas, creating a deeply spiritual atmosphere. The evening also featured the traditional Dhunuchi dance, performed with grace and fervor.
The ladies’ organizing committee shared their sentiments, saying,
“Maha Ashtami is not only about worship but also about devotion through seva, discipline, and joy. From lighting the 108 diyas to offering Pushpanjali and performing the Dhunuchi dance, we feel blessed to keep these traditions alive and pass them on to the next generation.”
The celebrations extended into the night with cultural programs, including music, dance, and a special tribute to legendary composer Salil Chowdhury.
