puja
Mulashtami
- Ashwina
- କୃଷ୍ଣ ଅଷ୍ଟମୀ
about
Mula Ashtami is a highly sacred tithi in Odisha's Shakta tradition, marking the official commencement of the grand 16-day Durga Puja festival (Sodasa Dinatmaka Durga Puja or Sola Puja). Celebrated on the Krishna Paksha Ashtami tithi of the Ashwina month, this day holds immense significance in iconic Shakti Peethas across Odisha—including Goddess Bimala's temple inside Puri Srimandir, Kakatpur Mangala, Cuttack Chandi, and Maa Samaleswari in Sambalpur. On this auspicious day, Goddess Durga is invoked in her principal ('Mula') form with special rituals such as Sahasrakumbha Abhisheka, secret rites, and Chandi Patha.
samagri6
- Sacred water, Holy Ganga water, and ritual pots (Kumbha) for Abhisheka
- Red hibiscus flowers, garlands, and Bel (Bael) leaves
- Incense sticks (Dhupa), Diya (lamp), Vermilion (Sindoor), Kumkum, and Akshata
- Sandalwood paste, camphor, and betel nuts/leaves
- Fruits, traditional Odia pithas (Kakara, Arisa), and Bhog items for offering
- Shri Chandi Patha book
niyam and paddhati6
- Take an early morning bath, cleanse the surroundings, and take a pledge (Sankalpa) for Goddess Durga's worship.
- Install a sacred Kalash or image of Goddess Shakti at home or in the temple.
- Offer red hibiscus flowers, sandalwood paste, vermilion, and holy Bhog offerings to the deity.
- Recite or devoutly listen to the Chandi Patha (Devi Mahatmyam).
- Initiate the first day of the 16-day festive rituals (Sodasa Dinatmaka Puja).
- Perform evening Maha Aarti and distribute the sanctified Prasadam.
dos
- Consume purely Sattvik (vegetarian) food on this day.
- Use red hibiscus flowers and Bel leaves for worship.
- Recite or listen to the holy Chandi Patha with complete devotion.
don'ts
- Do not consume non-vegetarian food or alcohol.
- Avoid anger, harsh speech, or conflict during the holy period.
