KATHMANDU: Maha Nawami is being observed throughout the country with much fervor by worshipping Goddess Durga Bhawani.

The day falls on the ninth day of the waxing moon in the month of Asoj as per the lunar calendar. Maha Nawami is marked as an important part of the 10-day Dashain festival celebrated by Nepali Hindus in Nepal and abroad.

On this day, worships are performed to Durga Bhawani on the occasion of the Maha Nawami and the ‘jamara’ (sprout of barley or maize seeds) that have been germinated is offered to the goddesses at different temples.

Meanwhile, several animals such as goats, ducks, cocks and even buffaloes are sacrificed at the various temples dedicated to goddesses.

Likewise, people also recite the Durga Saptasati and Devi Strota scriptures at home and in the temples.

The Markandeya Purana scripture mentions that the Goddess Chamunda had slain demon Raktabij on the day of Maha Nawami. Therefore, a special worship is performed to the goddess on this day by offering animal sacrifices.

Similarly, security forces in the country also perform what is called the ‘kot puja’ and worship the armories.

On this day, the Taleju Temple at Hanumandhoka in Kathmandu is opened for devotees to pay homage.

The Newar community worship Bhimsen, a Hindu deity, by making animal sacrifices on the occasion of Mahanawami.