Kanya Pujan: Significance, Rituals, and Spiritual Importance in Navratri

It's well said in our shastras that ‘Yatra naryastu pujyante ramante tatra devata', meaning, where women are respected, there the deities reside. Kanya Pujan or Kanjak Pujan in Navratri is one of the very living examples of this ritual. This Pujan is performed on the Ashtami or Navami of Navratri, which includes the worship of nine young girls, whom we consider as the living manifestation of Nav Durga. It's a tradition old ritual through which we worship and pay respect to that feminine power which serves as the foundation of the entire universe.

What is Kanya Pujan in Navratri?

Kanya Pujan is also known as Kanjak Pujan in many states. It’s a ritual in Navratri that has been celebrated for centuries, where nine young girls are invited and worshipped. These nine girls are considered the nine forms of Navdurga. Alongside these girls is a young boy, who is seen as Langoor or lord Hanuman, son of wind, who is the supreme deity.

Often people search:

'What is Kanjak Pujan?'

This is a very simple yet elegant ritual in Hinduism, performed specially during Navaratri. In very simple terms, kanjak means, worshipping of little girls as the form of Durga. Kanjak Pujan and Kanya Pujan are the same ritual. In the northern parts of India, it is known as Kanjak Pujan, whereas in the other parts of India it is known as Kanya Pujan.

Significance of Kanya Pujan in Navratri

The Embodiment of the Goddess: Every girl is considered the living manifestation of Nav-durga. This ancient ritual is a reminder that the divine form of Devi resides in every woman.
The Advent of Happiness and Prosperity: It is believed that the happiness of these young girls brings Devi's blessings to the home. Also, it brings Mental and spiritual clarity.
The Dissipation of Negativity: This sacred ritual helps remove obstacles from one's life and purges negative energy from the domestic environment.
To let go of ego: Worshiping young girls and bowing down to them helps to let go of our ego, deepening our selfless devotion.
A Lesson to Society: Kanya Pujan or Kanjak Pujan gives us a lesson to uphold the dignity and ensure the safety of each and every woman around us. It teaches us a lesson that women in any form- daughters, Mother, Sister, etc.- are the form of Shakti and true strength of our future.
The spiritual fulfillment: Devotees who perform nine days of fasting and penance during Navaratri are considered complete only when kanya Pujan is performed with true devotion in the heart.
Feeling of Compassion: This century-old tradition teaches us the spirit of service towards others.

When is Kanya Pujan Done?

Ashtami (The Eighth Day): This is known as 'Maha Ashtami' and is dedicated to Mother Mahagauri. On this day, many families perform Kanya Pujan (worship of young girls) to invite happiness, peace, and purity into their lives.

Navami (The Ninth Day): This is called 'Mahanavami' and marks the day of Mother Siddhidatri. Performing worship on this day is considered a symbol of the culmination or Siddhi (perfection)of the nine days of spiritual austerity observed during Navaratri.

The Pinnacle of Divine Energy: It is believed that during Ashtami and Navami, the power of Mother Durga reaches its absolute peak. Therefore, the worship and service performed on these specific dates are said to reach directly to the Goddess's feet, bestowing upon the devotee the fulfillment of their heart's desires.

Kanya Pujan Vidhi (Step-by-Step Ritual)

Invite nine young girls (Kanyas) and one young boy (Langura) to your home with utmost enthusiasm and love.

Foot Washing (Charan Prakshalan): As a mark of respect, wash their feet with water or milk. This represents that you are welcoming the goddess into your home.

After welcoming, wash their feet immediately, touch their feet, and seek their blessings. This will help to dissolve the inner ego within the devotee. After bowing in front of them, apply kumkum or sandalwood paste and tie kalawa /raksha sutra around her wrist. As a symbol of devotion, drape a red or colourful Chunari over the girls. This beautiful tradition honors them as a manifestation of Devi Durga.
With due respect and faith in heart, offer them Bhog mainly Halwa, Poori, and Black chickpeas. Try to make and offer saatvik food (without onion and garlic).

Now, coming to the last part of the kanya Pujan, offer them gifts, clothing, or dakshina.

Before bidding final farewell, touch their feet once again and ensure that they depart with a happy heart.

Kanya Pujan Food (Prasad)

The traditional Kanya Pujan prasad includes:

Poori

Kala chana

Halwa (Made from Suji)
This is a traditional prasad we offer to kanyas.

Spiritual Benefits of Kanya Pujan

Kanya Pujan not only pacifies planetary afflictions but also bestows a unique sense of peace upon the mind. According to the Devi Bhagwat Puran, when we serve young girls, we serve Durga. This ritual also ensures the continuous presence of Goddess Laxmi within the home.
Purification of the Inner Self: Serving young girls (Kanyas) dispels inner negativity and infuses our being with compassion and love.
Remedy for the bad effects of planets: As per Vedic astrology and the ancient Hindu scriptures, Kanya Pujan is considered one of the powerful and effective remedies for removing malefic Planetary effects.

Happiness, Prosperity, and the Abode of Lakshmi: In a home where young girls are treated with respect and partake in their meals with a joyful heart, Goddess Mahalakshmi herself resides, and poverty is eradicated.
Freedom from Family Discord: The worship of nine young girls and a Langura (a young boy embodying Lord Hanuman) fosters peace within the home and eliminates bitterness in interpersonal relationships.
Fulfillment of Resolutions: If you are observing the Navratri fast with a specific Sankalp (sacred resolve) for the success of a particular endeavor, Kanya Pujan serves as the final and most crucial step toward realizing that resolution.
A Divine Protective Shield: The blessings of these young girls act as a "protective shield" for the members of the household, safeguarding them against perils such as the "evil eye" and untimely death.
The Practical Essence of Dharma:*This ritual teaches us that Dharma is not confined merely to scriptures, but is truly embodied in the respect and service rendered to living beings, particularly young girls.

Rules of Kanya Pujan

Kanya Pujan is not just a tradition; it's the way of showing respect to Navadurga. To conclude your penance of nine days, it is very much essential to keep certain points in mind so that Devi herself may graciously accept your worship.

Purity and Cleanliness: While performing the puja, physical purity and purity of mind are equally essential. Keep your home and surroundings tidy and make prasad with enthusiasm and a pure heart.

Behaviour of Love and Respect: Remember, these girls are not merely young children; they are the very embodiment of the Divine Goddess herself. Treat them with immense love, patience, and respect. Welcome them with a smile on your face and a heart filled with reverence.

Pure and Sattvic Offerings: Whatever food you serve the girls, it must be entirely Sattvic (prepared without onion or garlic) and fresh. Make sure to ensure that the meal is prepared under your personal supervision and with absolute purity.

Do not see Kanya Pujan (the worship of young girls) as a mere formality or a chore to be "gotten over with." Perform this ritual with complete faith and devotion. When you bow down to touch their feet, that sentiment reaches directly to Mother Durga herself.

Consideration for Their Preferences: Include items that appeal to young children, such as a small, lovely gift or fresh fruit, in your offerings. Their happiness is the true measure of the success of your worship.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

In Kanya Pujan, the most significant form of worship is that of 'sentiment' (Bhav). If the heart lacks tenderness and reverence, the entire ritual remains incomplete.

Disrespect or Humiliation: Do not mock the girls regarding anything they say, nor subject them to any form of humiliation. Remember, at this moment, they are not merely guests in your home; they are the living embodiments of the Goddess herself.

Harsh Behavior: Speaking to them in a raised voice or using harsh, bitter words can completely nullify the spiritual merit of the entire worship ritual. Maintain absolute humility and gentleness in your demeanor.

Forcing Food: Children often eat very little or leave certain items unfinished. Do not, under any circumstances, force them to eat. Serve them with love and affection, allowing them to eat only as much as they desire.

Scolding or Punishment : Children are naturally playful; they may make noise or engage in mischief. In such situations, raising a hand against them or scolding them is considered a grave sin. Instead, view their mischief as the divine 'Lila' (play) of the Goddess and dismiss it with a smile.

Discrimination: During Kanya Pujan (worship of young girls), never make distinctions based on caste, religion, or socio-economic status (rich vs. poor). The very same divine light (the Goddess) shines within every single girl. Seat them all equally and accord them the same level of hospitality and respect.

Stale or Impure Food: Never offer the girls stale food or food purchased from the market that may not be pure. Do not serve them food that has been prepared without first taking a ritual bath or with an impure state of mind.

Do Not Forget to Dry Their Feet: People often wash the girls' feet but neglect to dry them, leaving them wet. With deep reverence, gently wipe their feet with a clean cloth to ensure they do not experience any discomfort while walking.

Sending Them Off Without Gifts: Never bid farewell to the girls empty-handed. Even if it is just a single piece of fruit, offering some form of parting gift or Dakshina(ritual offering) is absolutely essential.

FAQ

What is Kanya Pujan/Kanjak Pujan in Navratri, and why is it important?

Kanya Pujan is a centuries-old tradition in Hinduism, which is performed on Astami or Navami. This Pujan includes the worship of Nine young girls who are manifested as Nav Durga.

When should Kanya Pujan be done during Navratri?

The best time to perform Kanya Pujan is on Ashtami and Navami, when the energy of Durga is at its peak.

How to do Kanya Pujan at home step by step?

To perform kanya pujan at home, first invite young girls with a young boy(Navadurga with Hanuman), wash their feet, apply chandan, offer bhog (Puri, Halwa & Chana), give gifts, and seek their blessings.

What food is offered in Kanya Pujan (Kanjak Pooja)?

According to traditions, kanya pujan food includes poori, kala chana, and suji ka Halwa. The food offered to young girls should be saatvik(Prepared without Onion and Garlic )

How many girls are invited for Kanya Pujan in Navratri?

According to our scriptures, nine girls are invited for kanya Pujan, representing the nine forms of Devi Durga. Alongside nine young girls, one boy is also invited as a form of Lord Hanuman.