Ashtami in Bangladesh

Ashtami is a significant day within the Hindu community, and in Bangladesh, it holds particular prominence during religious festivals like Durga Puja and Kali Puja. It refers to the eighth day of the lunar fortnight in the Hindu calendar and is observed with various rituals and customs.

History and Traditions:

• Durga Puja: The most notable celebration associated with Ashtami in Bangladesh is during Durga Puja, a festival that honors Goddess Durga's victory over the buffalo demon Mahishasura. Ashtami marks the third day of this five-day event. On this day, Maha Ashtami rituals are performed, which include significant pujas like Kumari Puja – the worship of young girls as manifestations of the divine feminine.

• Sacrifices: Traditionally, animal sacrifices were made to please the goddess on this day; however, this practice has seen a decline with symbolic sacrifices using vegetables like pumpkins or bananas now being more common.

• Sandhi Puja: A special ritual called Sandhi Puja occurs at the juncture between Ashtami and Navami (the next day), commemorating a key moment in Durga's battle.

What People Do on This Day:

• Many devotees fast until they offer pushpanjali (floral offerings) during morning rituals.

• Temples are thronged with worshippers participating in elaborate pujas or prayers.

• Cultural programs showcasing music, dance, and drama are organized to celebrate Bengali heritage and Hindu mythology.

• Feasts are prepared after puja ceremonies where community members share food together as prasad (a devotional offering).

In essence, Ashtami in Bangladesh is a blend of spirituality, tradition, culture, and social gathering that reinforces communal bonds among those who observe it.