Sandhi Puja is an integral and important part of Durga Puja, especially during Ashtami and Navami. This practice, which dates back to ancient times, is still observed with the same respect and devotion by the goddess’s devotees. On this day, Vegetable sacrifices should be offered to the goddess. It is believed that offering vegetables to the goddess will ensure that the entire family enjoys her favour. Sandhi Puja is performed from the end of Ashtami until the beginning of Navami. On this day, you are compelled by law to worship the goddess according to tradition.
This year, Maha Ashtami is going to be observed on 3rd October, 2022. Mahishasur is said to have been killed by the goddess Durga on Maha Ashtami. On this day, worshippers present wreaths to the goddess. The ritual is accompanied by numerous laws and rites.
The entire duration of the Sandhi Puja is marked by fervent prayers. At that time, the Goddess is presented with 108 lit lights and 108 lotus flowers. There are also 108 Bael leaves included.
Significance of 108 lotus in Sandhi Puja
In the Hindu religion, the number 108 has immense significance. The number 108 is thought to be a fair depiction of how thorough existence is by Vedic mathematicians. The Sun, Moon, and Earth are linked by this number. Normally, the Sun and Moon are 108 times further from Earth than their combined diameters. This significance is thought to be based on such a phenomenon.
The 108 lotus blossoms represent the 108 names of Goddess Durga. Flowers are used in every single Hindu Puja (worship) and ritual. And among all flowers, the lotus is thought to be the luckiest and most revered. The lotus represents beauty and aloofness. The lotus bloom rises clear and dry above the murky, slushy water in which it develops. The lotus symbolizes how to live a life without any ties to one’s surroundings.
The Sandhi puja needs 108 red lotuses to be performed. They are offered during the final 24 minutes of Ashtami and the first 24 minutes of Navami, which together make up the 48-minute transition from Ashtami to Navami.