Sandhi Puja is one of the most sacred and powerful rituals performed during Durga Puja, marking the divine moment when Ashtami Tithi (eighth day) ends and Navami Tithi (ninth day) begins.
It is believed that during this transitional period, Goddess Durga transformed into Goddess Chamunda to destroy the demon duo Chanda and Munda.
The time of Sandhi Puja is considered extremely auspicious – even a few seconds of devotion during this phase is said to bring immense blessings, protection, and prosperity.
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Sandhi Puja Date and Timings in 2026
In 2026, Sandhi Puja will be observed during Durga Puja Ashtami and Navami, which fall in October. It generally occurs between the last 24 minutes of Ashtami and the first 24 minutes of Navami.
Sandhi Puja Date 2026: 19th October, Monday 2026
Sandhi Puja Muhurat – 10:27 AM to 11:15 AM, 19th October
- Ashtami Tithi Begins – 08:27 AM on 18th October, 2026
- Ashtami Tithi Ends – 10:51 AM on 19th October, 2026
Astrologers and priests will calculate the precise Sandhi Puja Muhurat (auspicious time) based on the Hindu Panchang closer to the date of Durga Puja 2026.
Devotees are advised to check the exact Sandhi Kaal timing in their region before performing the rituals.
Spiritual Significance of Sandhi Puja
The term “Sandhi” means junction – it symbolizes the transition from one divine phase to another.
This time is considered energetically powerful because the universe experiences a moment of divine transformation.
According to scriptures:
- Goddess Durga assumed the fierce form of Chamunda Devi at this exact moment.
- It represents the victory of good over evil.
- Worshipping the Goddess during this time helps remove negative energies and obstacles from one’s life.
- It is also believed that prayers offered during Sandhi Puja are answered faster than usual.
Rituals Performed During Sandhi Puja
The Sandhi Puja involves 108 lotus flowers, 108 lamps (deepas), and 108 sacred offerings to the Goddess.
Here are the main rituals observed:
1. Lighting of 108 Lamps: Devotees light lamps symbolizing the illumination of life and the destruction of darkness.
2. Offering of 108 Lotus Flowers: Each flower represents pure devotion and surrender to the Goddess.
3. Recitation of Mantras: The Devi Mahatmya or Chandi Path is recited to invoke the Goddess Chamunda.
4. Kumari Puja: In some regions, young girls (symbolizing the Goddess) are worshipped with offerings and prayers.
5. Animal or Pumpkin Sacrifice (Bali): In traditional households, symbolic sacrifices are performed to mark the defeat of evil.
6. Devotional Drumming and Conch Sound: The moment of Sandhi Kaal is celebrated with dhak beats, conch shells, and chanting.
Importance of Sandhi Kaal
Sandhi Kaal is not just a time for rituals – it is a moment of divine awakening. It is believed that during this short period, the cosmic energy is at its peak.
Performing puja at this time helps:
- Cleanse one’s mind and soul
- Remove negative karma
- Bring peace, prosperity and protection
- Strengthen spiritual connection with Goddess Durga
Regional Celebrations of This Occasion
Sandhi Puja is observed with great devotion across India:
- In West Bengal, it is one of the grandest rituals of Durga Puja, with huge gatherings in pandals.
- In Assam, Odisha, and Tripura, the puja is marked by intense devotion and rhythmic drumming.
- In Bihar and Jharkhand, families light lamps and offer sweets to the Goddess.
- Even in other states, devotees perform home pujas during the Sandhi Kaal for blessings.
Conclusion
Sandhi Puja is a reminder that light always overcomes darkness. It is not just a ritual, it is a spiritual transformation, symbolizing courage, strength, and faith in divine power.
By offering prayers at the sacred Sandhi moment, devotees invite Goddess Durga’s blessings to lead a life of positivity, success, and peace.
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Trending FAQs:
Q. Why is Sandhi Puja considered so important?
It marks the moment when Goddess Durga transformed into Chamunda Devi to kill the demons Chanda and Munda. It symbolizes the victory of divine power over evil.
Q. How long does Sandhi Puja last?
The duration of Sandhi Puja is approximately 48 minutes. Before 24 minutes the end of Ashtami and 24 minutes after the beginning of Navami.
Q. What items are required for Sandhi Puja?
Main items include 108 lamps, 108 lotus flowers, sweets, fruits, incense sticks, vermillion, and holy water. Devotees also recite Devi Mahatmya or Chandi Path.
Q. Can Sandhi Puja be done at home?
Yes, devotees can perform Sandhi Puja at home by lighting lamps, offering flowers, and chanting Goddess Durga’s mantras during the Sandhi Kaal period.