Kanjak / Kanya Puja 2026: How It Is Celebrated Across India
Kanjak Puja , also known as Kanya Puja or Kanya Pujan, is a Navratri tradition in which young girls are worshipped as forms of Goddess Durga . It is most commonly observed on Ashtami or Navami. Families welcome young girls into their homes, offer prayers, serve them a traditional meal and give them gifts before they leave. While Kanjak is especially associated with North India, the idea of celebrating the divine feminine takes many different forms across India — from Kumari Puja in West Bengal to Golu, Ayudha Puja and Vidyarambham in southern India. Kanjak Puja 2026: Key Facts What is Kanjak Puja? Worship of young girls as manifestations of Goddess Durga during Navratri. When is Kanjak celebrated? Usually on Ashtami or Navami, depending on family and regional tradition. How many girls are invited? Nine girls are traditionally invited in many North Indian households to represent the nine forms of Goddess Durga. What food is served? Poori, chana and halwa are the tradition...