KATHMANDU: Hindus throughout the country are observing the eighth day 'Maha Ashtami' of the ten-day long Dashain festival today by worshipping Goddess Durga.

On this day, people worship the goddesses Mahakali, Mahalaxmi and Maha Saraswati. Today is considered special as it is believed that Goddess Durga attained power on this day. On the occasion, people perform religious rituals at their 'Dashain Ghar'. The devotees also read scriptures related to the goddess. Likewise, devotees throng various temples and shrines of the goddess in Kathmandu Valley and throughout the country from early morning and offer various items of worship. Also on this day, a special 'Kalaratri' worship is held at midnight at the 'Dashain Ghar' of Hanumandhoka in the capital city. This day is marked with much fervour and is not only considered a day of worship and devotion, but also of merry-making and being together with family and friends. (with inputs from Rastriya Samachar Samiti)