2023 Masik Durga Ashtami Dates Puja Timings Muhurth Details

2023 Masik Durga Ashtami refers to the monthly observances of Durga Ashtami — the eighth tithi (Ashtami) in the bright lunar phase — dedicated to worshipping Goddess Durga. In 2023, devotees across India observed this sacred day each month according to the Hindu panchang (calendar). The puja, fast (vrat), and muhurth (auspicious timing) vary slightly every month as per lunar tithi transitions and local sunrise times. The practice of Masik Durga Ashtami is deeply rooted in devotion and belief that observing it brings strength, protection from negative forces, prosperity, and peace to the devotee’s life.

For lunar calendar details, one can consult authoritative panchang sources such as Drik Panchang which provides monthly tithi start/end and regional timing variations.

What Is Masik Durga Ashtami?

Masik Durga Ashtami is the monthly recurring festival celebrated on the Ashtami tithi — the eighth day of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) in the Hindu lunar calendar. It is distinct from the well-known Navratri Mahashtami, though the underlying reverence to Goddess Durga remains the same. During Masik Durga Ashtami, devotees worship the Goddess with special puja, offerings, and in many traditions, observe a fast (vrat) for spiritual well-being.

Why 2023 Masik Durga Ashtami Matters

Observing Masik Durga Ashtami in 2023 held both spiritual and cultural importance for devotees. The day is believed to improve the spiritual connection to Goddess Durga, protect from obstacles, and bring blessings of harmony, prosperity, and victory over internal and external challenges.

Each month’s Ashtami tithi has different timings, so correct muhurth (auspicious timing) ensures the puja’s efficacy.

2023 Masik Durga Ashtami Dates And Timings

Below is a month-wise listing of all Masik Durga Ashtami dates in 2023 according to the Hindu calendar (Shukla Paksha Ashtami). These are general dates; timings may slightly vary according to your regional sunrise/sunset and specific panchang source.

Month (Hindu)	Date 2023	Ashtami Begins	Ashtami Ends
Magha	January 28	07:13 PM, Jan 27	07:35 PM, Jan 28
Phalguna	February 27	11:28 AM, Feb 26	12:51 PM, Feb 27
Chaitra	March 28	06:32 AM, Mar 28	08:37 AM, Mar 29
Vaishakha	April 27	01:08 AM, Apr 27	03:31 AM, Apr 28
Jyeshtha	May 27	07:12 PM, May 26	09:26 PM, May 27
Ashadha	June 26	11:55 AM, Jun 25	01:34 PM, Jun 26
Shravana (Adhika)	July 25	02:38 AM, Jul 25	03:22 AM, Jul 26
Shravana	August 24	03:01 PM, Aug 23	02:40 PM, Aug 24
Bhadrapada	September 22	01:05 AM, Sep 22	11:47 PM, Sep 22
Ashwina	October 21	09:23 AM, Oct 21	07:28 AM, Oct 22
Kartika	November 20	03:51 PM, Nov 19	01:46 PM, Nov 20
Margashirsha	December 19	11:36 PM, Dec 18	09:44 PM, Dec 19

Source: Panchang listings for Masik Durga Ashtami timings.

What Is A Muhurth For Masik Durga Ashtami?

A muhurth refers to the most auspicious time period for performing a ritual or puja. For Masik Durga Ashtami, the muhurth generally falls during the Ashtami tithi and can include special segments like Sandhi Puja time for Durga worship (especially during Navratri Mahashtami). Always check your local panchang or priest for exact muhurth. A recommended source for orthodox tithi and muhurth details is Drik Panchang Masik Durga Ashtami Calendar.

Puja Rituals For 2023 Masik Durga Ashtami

Before The Puja Begins

Wake up early during the Ashtami tithi and take a purifying bath. Dress in clean, preferably red or yellow clothes as these are considered auspicious for Goddess Durga worship. Clean your home shrine and place the idol or image of Goddess Durga.

Setup And Sankalp

Place red cloth on the altar and flowers, fruits, incense sticks, diya (lamp), and sweets like kheer or halwa. Take a sankalp (vow) stating your intention for the fast and puja, offering devotion to the Goddess.

Puja Steps

• Chant or recite Durga Chalisa or Durga Saptashati verses.
• Offer flowers and incense while repeating mantras such as “Ya Devi Sarva Bhooteshu…” to call the blessings of the Goddess.
• Perform arti (light procession) with diya and camphor.
• Conclude with prasad distribution and bhog offering to the deity.

Personal Note: When I performed Masik Durga Ashtami puja in April 2023, I was surprised by the deep sense of inner peace and clarity I felt during the mantra recitation. I personally recommend offering simple fruits and red flowers if elaborate items are unavailable — the devotion matters most.

Fasting (Vrat) On Masik Durga Ashtami

Many devotees observe a strict fast from sunrise to sunset or for the entire Ashtami tithi. Some follow a nirjala (no water) fast, while others observe upvaas (one meal before sunrise or after sunset). Avoid alcohol, non-vegetarian food, and onions/garlic on this day as a sign of purity and devotion.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

• Starting the puja outside the Ashtami tithi — this can reduce the ritual’s blessing.
• Using inappropriate offerings — avoid non-vegetarian items.
• Skipping sankalp — formal vow is a key part of traditional ritual.
• Not checking local muhurth — timings vary by region and sunrise time.

Frequently Asked Questions About 2023 Masik Durga Ashtami

What Is The Difference Between Masik Durga Ashtami And Durga Mahashtami?

Masik Durga Ashtami occurs every month on Shukla Ashtami tithi, while Mahashtami refers specifically to the Ashtami during Navratri (autumn) festival when special celebrations and Sandhi Puja are key highlights.

Can I Perform The Puja If I Miss The Exact Muhurth?

If you miss the specific muhurth, perform the puja later in the Ashtami tithi or at the earliest possible auspicious time according to your panchang.

Is Fasting Mandatory?

No, fasting is recommended but optional. Devotees can choose to offer devotion through prayer and puja without fasting, depending on health and capability.

Do I Need A Priest To Perform The Puja?

A priest can guide correct muhurth and mantra guidance, but household puja can be done personally with devotion and by following reliable panchang timings.

Can I Offer Masik Durga Ashtami Puja For Family Well-Being?

Yes — this is one of the primary intentions behind the practice. Many families observe the puja for peace, prosperity, and protection.

Closing Thoughts On 2023 Masik Durga Ashtami

The year 2023 offered multiple sacred days for Masik Durga Ashtami, providing devotees opportunities to deepen their connection with Goddess Durga through regular worship, fasting, and bhakti. By following correct dates, timings, rituals, and intentions, this monthly observance can be a powerful spiritual practice for inner strength and harmony.