KATHMANDU: President Ramchandra Paudel marked the auspicious occasion of Maha Nawami, the ninth day of the 10-day Bada Dashain festival, by participating in the traditional Nawakanya (nine virgins) ritual. This ceremony holds special significance for Nepalis, as it is a part of the grandest festival in their culture.
The President, in a special ceremony held at Shital Niwas, the Presidential Residence, paid his respects and conducted puja rituals for the nine virgins, who are considered incarnations of Goddess Nawadurga.
During the ceremony, President Paudel followed the customary practices of anointing the feet of the nine virgin girls, receiving tika from them, and presenting them with gifts. It is a time-honored tradition for the Head of State to perform the Nawakanya ritual on Maha Nawami as part of the Dashain festival.
Throughout the Dashain festival, the Goddess Durga is worshipped in her various forms, including Shailaputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandamata, Katyayani, Kalaratri, Mahagauri, and Siddhidatrri, each holding its own significance.
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