Maha Ashtami will be observed on either October 18 or October 19 in 2026, as the Ashtami tithi remains active across both dates. According to the Panchang information available, the tithi begins at morning 8:27 on October 18 and ends at morning 10:51 on October 19.

This overlap has created confusion over the correct date for Durga Ashtami. Drik Panchang places the main observance on October 19, while some Panchang interpretations and astrologers also support October 18.

Why both dates are being considered

The difference is linked to the method used to determine the festival date. Night worship is considered important during Navratri Ashtami. On that basis, devotees may choose October 18 for the observance.

Those who give greater importance to the Udaya Tithi, or the date on which the tithi is present at sunrise, may observe Maha Ashtami on October 19. Since the Ashtami tithi continues over both dates this year, the available information states that devotees can celebrate on either October 18 or October 19 according to their convenience.

Kanya Puja timing on October 18

For devotees observing Maha Ashtami on October 18, the stated window for Kanya Puja runs from morning 8:27 to evening 5:49. Kanya Puja may be performed at any time during this period.

The most favourable time is described as before morning 10:30. Families planning the ritual on October 18 can therefore complete it during the morning or later within the stated period.

Havan timing on October 18

The stated auspicious period for havan on October 18 also begins at morning 8:27 and continues until evening 5:49. Before starting the havan, devotees are advised in the supplied worship guidance to perform the prescribed puja of Mata Mahagauri.

The same guidance mentions offering halwa, puri and chickpeas before conducting the havan with family members. The Abhijit Muhurat is also identified as a particularly favourable period for the ritual.

Other auspicious timings

The listed timings for October 18 include Brahma Muhurat from night 4:43 to morning 5:33, morning twilight from morning 5:08 to morning 6:24, and Abhijit Muhurat from morning 11:43 to noon 12:29.

Vijaya Muhurat is listed from afternoon 2:00 to afternoon 2:46. Godhuli Muhurat runs from evening 5:49 to evening 6:14, while evening twilight continues from evening 5:49 to evening 7:04.

Amrit Kaal is given as morning 7:24 to morning 9:12. Sarvartha Siddhi Yoga is listed from noon 12:49 until morning 6:24 on October 19.

Conclusion

The available Panchang information allows devotees to observe Maha Ashtami on October 18 or October 19 because the Ashtami tithi spans both dates. On October 18, Kanya Puja and havan may be performed from morning 8:27 to evening 5:49, with before morning 10:30 described as the most favourable time for Kanya Puja.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Is Maha Ashtami on October 18 or October 19?

The supplied information gives both dates as possible because the Ashtami tithi continues from October 18 into October 19. Drik Panchang places the main observance on October 19, while other interpretations support October 18.

Q. When does the Ashtami tithi begin and end?

The tithi begins at morning 8:27 on October 18 and ends at morning 10:51 on October 19.

Q. What is the Kanya Puja timing on October 18?

Kanya Puja can be performed from morning 8:27 to evening 5:49. The time before morning 10:30 is described as the most favourable.

Q. What is the havan timing on October 18?

The stated havan window is from morning 8:27 to evening 5:49. Abhijit Muhurat is also identified as favourable for the ritual.

Q. What offerings are mentioned before the havan?

The supplied worship guidance mentions offering halwa, puri and chickpeas after performing the prescribed puja of Mata Mahagauri.