Mahagauri, the goddess of beauty and splendour, is believed to grant wishes and salvation to devotees. Her depiction includes a trident, fear-dispelling mudra, tambourine, and blessing mudra. Kanya Puja, where young girls are invited and served sumptuous food, is a key part of Maha Ashtami. She transforms from Kali to Mahagauri, symbolising her power to overcome adversity.