Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday, 18 October extended greetings to devotees across the country on the occasion of Durga Ashtami, the eighth day of Shardiya Navratri, praying that the blessings of Maa Mahagauri bring joy, peace, hope, and positive energy into every household. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also joined in, offering prayers for happiness, prosperity, and good health.

CM Yogi's Message to Devotees

In a post on X, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said, 'Through the worship of Maa Mahagauri, the eighth form of the primordial energy Maa Durga, purity, self-discipline, and strength flow into the devotee's life. From Maa, Creator of the Universe, we pray that joy and peace reside in the lives of all devotees, their heartfelt wishes be fulfilled, and their homes and courtyards be illuminated with new hope and vibrant energy. Jai Maa Mahagauri.'

The Chief Minister also shared a Sanskrit verse offering prayers to Maa Mahagauri, underscoring the religious and spiritual significance of the eighth day of the festival. His message highlighted the values of purity, discipline, strength, and inner peace that are associated with the worship of the eighth divine form.

Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Joins the Occasion

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also conveyed her greetings through a post on X, saying, 'On the auspicious occasion of the sacred Durga Ashtami, heartfelt best wishes to you all. At the lotus feet of the eighth form of Mother Durga, the supremely benevolent Maa Mahagauri, millions of prostrations.'

She added: 'May the divine grace of the Mother bring the abode of happiness and prosperity to every home, may the lamp of faith and devotion remain ever lit in every heart, and may health, peace, and auspiciousness permeate the lives of all. May the universal Mother Mahagauri continue to shower her boundless grace upon all the people of the nation; this is the prayer at Her lotus feet. Jai Mata Di.'

Significance of Durga Ashtami and Maa Mahagauri

Shardiya Navratri Day 8, observed on 18 October this year, is dedicated to Maa Mahagauri — the eighth of the nine divine manifestations of Goddess Durga. Revered for her radiant appearance and serene disposition, Maa Mahagauri is regarded as a symbol of purity, compassion, peace, and spiritual renewal.

Devotees observe the day with special prayers, rituals, and offerings, seeking divine blessings for their families, prosperity, and inner strength. Durga Ashtami holds particular prominence within the nine-day festival, with large gatherings at temples and community celebrations reported across Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and other parts of India.

About Shardiya Navratri

The festival of Shardiya Navratri spans nine days and celebrates the nine forms of Goddess Durga, with each day dedicated to a distinct manifestation of divine feminine energy. The festival is among the most widely observed Hindu celebrations in India, drawing millions of devotees to temples and community events nationwide. This year's observance concludes with Navami and Vijayadashami (Dussehra) in the days immediately following Ashtami.