Shardiya Navratri 2026: Along with the worship of Mother Durga, Kanya Puja is also considered to have special significance in Shardiya Navratri. During this time, little girls are invited to their homes. Devotees feed him and offer dakshina or gifts as per their devotion. In many families this tradition is followed on Ashtami day, while some people perform Kanya Puja on Navami Tithi.

This year Shardiya Navratri is starting from 11 October 2026. In such a situation, families preparing for Kanya Puja may have a question in their mind that what would be a good gift to give to the girl child and which things should be avoided. According to religious beliefs, certain things are kept in mind while choosing a gift.

What should be kept in mind while giving gifts in Kanya Puja?

In Kanya Puja, there is a tradition of honoring small girls as the child form of the Goddess. Therefore, the gift should be such that it is useful for them and the girls also like it. It is not necessary to buy expensive items for this. This tradition can also be followed by giving a small gift according to one’s financial condition.

Children can be given fruits, sweets, story books, notebooks, pencils, coloring books or other items of daily use. Some families also gift clothes, handkerchiefs, bangles and red chunari.

1. Avoid giving sharp objects

While buying gifts for little girls, it is important to keep their age and safety in mind. It is better to avoid gifting knives, blades, sharp tools or objects that pose a risk of injury. Stationary, toys or useful things to studies can be chosen in their place.

2. What is the belief regarding the gift of black color?

In some religious beliefs, offering black colored items is avoided during worship. For this reason, some families choose red, yellow or pink colored things for Kanya Puja. However, this is a matter to religious traditions and beliefs of families. This should not be considered a mandatory rule applicable everywhere.

3. Why do we avoid giving leather items? (Shardiya Navratri 2026)

Some people do not include leather items while choosing gifts on religious occasions. Behind this are their religious beliefs and traditions. If you are also buying gifts for Kanya Puja, then you can opt for clothes, books, stationery or other useful items.

Which gifts would be good to give in Kanya Puja?

For Kanya Puja, it is better to choose such a gift which the girls can use. You can give copy-pencil, set of colors, book with pictures, fruits, sweets, clothes or small useful items according to their age. If the girls are very small, then choose any item keeping their safety in mind.

While giving gifts, also keep in mind that all girls should be treated equally. Instead of giving more importance to one child and less importance to another, giving love and respect to all is in accordance with the spirit of this tradition.

Trust and respect are more important than gifts

In Kanya Puja, the feeling of respect and affection towards girls is considered more important than the price of the gift. Therefore, there is no need to spend more than your capacity. Worship done with simplicity and good behavior towards girls can make this occasion special.