On the eighth day (Ashtami) of the Sharadiya Navratri, a special worship of Goddess Durga and a *havan* (sacrificial fire ritual) are performed. This year, Durga Ashtami will be celebrated on October 19th. It is customary to perform a *havan* alongside *Kanya Pujan* (the ritual worship of young girls) on this day. It is believed that performing a *havan* brings positivity into the home and bestows the blessings of the Goddess upon the devotees. Offering specific items into the *havan* fire is said to yield various auspicious results. Let us explore which items are considered auspicious to offer during the Ashtami *havan*.

**Offering *Kheer* (Rice Pudding) in the Ashtami *Havan* is Considered Auspicious**
Offering *kheer* during the *havan* on the Ashtami of Navratri is highly auspicious. *Kheer* is considered a symbol of sweetness, happiness, and prosperity. According to tradition, offering *kheer* in the *havan* invokes the grace of Goddess Durga. For this, a small amount of *havan* ritual ingredients (*havan samagri*) is mixed into the *kheer* before it is offered into the fire according to the prescribed rituals.

**Offerings Using Pure Cow Ghee**
In Hinduism, *ghee* (clarified butter) holds special significance during a *havan*. Offering it into the sacred fire is considered an essential part of the worship. Pure cow *ghee* is used for the Ashtami *havan*. It is believed that offering *ghee* purifies the atmosphere of the home and ensures the devotee receives the auspicious fruits of their worship.

**Offering a Pair of Whole Cloves**
The use of cloves is considered very auspicious in the worship of Goddess Durga. According to religious belief, dipping a pair of whole cloves in *ghee* and offering them into the *havan* fire eliminates all negativity from the home and invites positive energy.
Additionally, for the Ashtami *havan*, items such as mango wood, barley, *akshat* (unbroken rice grains), black sesame seeds, *guggul* (myrrh/resin), *loban* (frankincense/benzoin), *makhana* (fox nuts), and sugar should also be used, as these are all considered highly auspicious.

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