KATHMANDU: Nepalis are celebrating Phulpati, the seventh day of Bada Dashain, today.

Traditionally, on this day, banana stalks, jamara, belpatra (leaves of wood apple) and sugarcane sticks tied with red cloth along with Kalash filled with holy water are brought to Hanumandhoka from Gorkha on a decorated palanquin.

On this occasion, Nepali Army holds a parade at Tundikhel that includes gun firing, which is observed by the president and government officials every year. All government offices will remain closed for five days from Phulpati to Dwadashi.

The auspicious time for bringing Phulpati to the Dashain Ghar at Hanumandhoka is 8:52 am on October 5, according to Nepal Panchanga Nirnayak Samiti (NPNS).

October 6 and 7 will mark Mahaashtami and Mahanavami, respectively.

Vijaya Dashami, the main day of Dashain will be celebrated on October 8. Though tika can be received and offered from the day of Vijaya Dashami to Kojagrat Purnima, the most auspicious time for receiving and offering tika is at 10:35 am on Vijaya Dashami, NPNS said.

According to popular Hindu myth, Goddess Durga had killed demon king Mahishasur on Mahanavami and hence Vijaya Dashami symbolises the victory of good over evil.