Why Kala Chana & Puri Are Prepared On Durga Ashtami/Navami?

Chana (black chickpeas) and puri are traditionally prepared on Ashtami, especially Durga Ashtami or Navami during Navratri in many Indian households

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Chana and puri are made as bhog (prasad) to Goddess Durga, especially in her Kanya form (young girls representing the divine feminine)

Preparing this meal and sharing it with family, neighbors, or young girls fosters community spirit, passes down cultural traditions

It's a sacred food offering to honor her power and seek blessings

This meal is sattvic (pure, vegetarian, and onion-garlic free), aligning with the dietary practices during Navratri. It represents simplicity and devotion, essential during fasting and worship

On the 8th or 9th day, nine young girls (symbolising the Nav Durgas) are invited, worshipped, and fed with halwa, chana, and puri. This ritual emphasises female divinity and celebrates the power of Shakti

Black chana is associated with strength and nourishment, symbolising the inner strength bestowed by the goddess