KATHMANDU: Hindus throughout the country are observing the eighth day of the 10-day Bada Dashain festival as Maha Astami by Worshipping Goddess Durga Bhawani today.

On this day, people also worship the Goddesses Mahakali, Mahalaxmi and Maha Saraswati. Maha Astami is considered special as the Goddess Durga attained power on this day.

On the occasion, people perform religious rituals at the Dashain Ghars and armouries and offer prayers and sacrifices of different animals to the goddess at various shrines. People also read the Durga Saptashati scriptures.

Devotees throng various shrines of the Goddess in Kathmandu Valley and throughout the country from early morning offering prayers and sacrificing goats and ducks. Five different animals -- Goat, buffalo, chicken, pig and duck -- are sacrificed on the occasion.

Special Durgapuja (worship) and prayer ceremonies are held at the Dashain Ghars. The weapons, vehicles and machines are also worshipped on this day.

People who do not sacrifice animals offer sacrifices of various vegetables and fruits in substitution.

Moreover, a special Kalaratri worship is held at midnight at the Dashain Ghar of Hanumandhoka in the capital city.