Devotees worship Goddess Durga with rituals, sacrifices, and prayers
KATHMANDU, SEPTEMBER 30
Hindus across the country are celebrating Maha Astami, the eighth day of the Bada Dashain festival, by worshipping Goddess Durga Bhawani today.
Special rituals are being performed at Dashain Ghars and armouries, with devotees offering prayers to Mahakali, Mahalaxmi, and Mahasaraswati. Sacrifices of goats, ducks, and roosters mark the day, while those avoiding animal sacrifice substitute with fruits and vegetables.
Temples and shrines dedicated to Goddess Durga across the country, including in the Kathmandu Valley, witnessed heavy footfall from early morning. Devotees also recited Durga Saptashati scriptures and worshipped weapons, vehicles, and machinery as part of the traditions.
A midnight Kalaratri worship is scheduled at the Hanumandhoka Dashain Ghar in the capital, continuing the centuries-old practice.
