Sandhi Puja (Sandhya Puja or Sandhipujo) is a unique ritual held at the conjunction of Ashtami and Navami Tithis during Durga Puja in Bengal. In 2026, date of Sandhi Puja is between October 18 and October 20. After usual rituals, the priest offers prayers to Goddess Chamunda. It is performed for a total of 48 minutes, starting from the last 24 minutes of Ashtami (the eighth day) until the first 24 minutes of Navami (the ninth day). This period is known as the Sandhikal (the junction period). At this time, Mother Goddess is the Sarvasangharini (destroyer of all).
The popular belief is that Goddess Chamunda killed Chanda and Munda at this period. Chanda and Munda were appointed by Mahisha to attack Goddess Durga. Goddess Chamunda appeared from the forehead of Goddess Durga and they killed Chanda and Munda.
During this Sandhipujo, the Chamunda form of the Goddess is worshipped. It is believed that Goddess Durga manifests in the form of Chamunda during this junction period and slays the two demons, Chanda and Munda. This is why this moment is extremely significant, and the puja performed during this Sandhikal is known as 'Sandhipujo'. Worshipping the Goddess during this Sandhikal is said to yield special benefits. During this time, evil forces are destroyed, and auspicious power is established.
During Sandhi Puja, 108 lotus flowers are offered at the feet of the Goddess, and the Goddess is worshipped by lighting 108 earthen lamps. Flowers, leaves, clothes and jewelry are offered to Goddess Chamunda during the period.
In some places, there is a tradition of sacrifice at the final stage of Sandhipujo. In some areas, a goat is sacrificed, while in others, substitutes like ash gourd, sugarcane, or bananas are offered.
Thus, Sandhi Puja is a crucial part of Durga Puja, symbolizing the worship of Goddess Chamunda and the destruction of evil forces.