The popular ritual of ‘Kanya/Kumari Puja’ is held during which of the following festivals?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: D
Explanation
The correct answer is option 4 i.e. Sharad Navaratri.
The popular ritual of ‘Kanya Puja’ or ‘Kumari Puja’ is held during the Navratri festival, particularly on Durga Ashtami and Mahanavami. During this ritual, young girls—believed to be manifestations of Goddess Durga—are worshipped, offered food, gifts, and treated with great reverence. Kanya Puja is also known as Kumari Puja, Kumarika Puja, or Kanjak Puja, and is considered an essential part of Navratri celebrations across India. The ritual symbolizes respect for feminine energy and the purity of the girl child, and is performed to seek the blessings of the Goddess for prosperity and protection