Durgotsav: The real reason 108 diyas are lit during Sandhi Puja

But, what is so special about this particular juncture? It is believed that this moment, between Ashtami and Navami, is “powerful and auspicious, as per our scriptures,” he said. “The importance and purpose of Sandhi Puja is to celebrate the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness, and wisdom over ignorance,” he told indianexpress.com.

“It is said that Maa Durga had slain the demons on the cusp of Ashtami and Navami — at the said juncture. As per our panjika, the time window of the last 24 minutes of Ashtami tithi and the first 24 minutes of Navami tithi is known as ‘Sandhi Time’ or the ‘holy juncture.’ It serves as the culmination point when the most important ritual of Durga Puja is held,” he said.

He further explained that the sandhi period is believed to have the best and strongest energies in the universe and celebrates divine female power, which comes in unison to create an ideal moment for all Shakti worshippers to bestow upon them more power and energy. Those participating in Sandhi Puja fast from the beginning of Ashtami till Sandhi puja is over on Navami, he said.

108 diyas lit during Sandhi Puja. (Source: Ishika Roy)

But, why are always 108 diyas lit on a towering lamp or round shaped dish during Sandhi Puja?

Prabhu explained that the lighting of 108 diyas or lamps symbolise the arrival of light over darkness. According to him, 108 lotus flowers are offered to Maa Durga which represent the beauty of life, along with 108 garlands of stone apple leaves, sarees, jewellery and fruits.

He also said that the number 108 is crucial as it signifies the as many names of Maa Durga. “108 is also a number considered highly auspicious in Hinduism, symbolizing wholeness and spiritual completion.” During the puja, worshippers give ‘ulu dhoni,’ (sounds emanating from the tongue repeatedly hitting one side of the cheek to another) to ward off negativity, conch shells are blown to eliminate evil energy and holy water is sprinkled.