KATHMANDU, OCTOBER 1

Hindus throughout the country are observing Mahanawami, the ninth day of the ten-day Bada Dashain festival, with fervor by worshipping Goddess Durga Bhawani and making offerings.

According to the lunar calendar, Mahanawami falls on the ninth day of the waxing moon in the month of Asoj. The day is regarded as highly significant, as scriptures describe Goddess Chamunda slaying the demon Raktabij on this very occasion.

Devotees mark the day by offering jamara germinated on Ghatasthapana to the goddess at various shrines. Rituals include recitation of the Durga Saptasati and Devi Strota scriptures at homes and temples. Large numbers of devotees also perform animal sacrifices of he-goats, ducks, roosters, and buffaloes at temples dedicated to Durga Bhawani. For those who do not follow this tradition, fruits and vegetables are offered as symbolic substitutes.

Security forces across the country perform kot puja, or worship of armouries, while the Taleju Temple at Hanumandhoka in the capital is opened exclusively for devotees on this day, attracting long queues. The Newar community also worships the deity Bhimsen with sacrifices as part of their age-old practice.

Mahanawami rituals highlight devotion, protection, and the triumph of good over evil, carrying forward centuries-old traditions of the Dashain festival.