Maha Nawami being observed today

KATHMANDU: Maha Nawami, the ninth day of the Bada Dashain festival, is being observed today with worship dedicated to Goddess Durga.

Traditionally falling on the ninth day of the waxing moon in the Nepali month of Asoj according to the lunar calendar, Maha Nawami is being marked in the month of October this year.

Devotees perform special rituals in honor of Goddess Durga, offering jamara—germinated barley seeds sown on the festival’s first day—at various temples and shrines. Additional offerings are also made as part of the celebrations.

Observed predominantly by Hindus, the day includes the recitation of sacred texts such as the Durga Saptasati and Devi Stotra in homes and temples. It is also customary to worship vehicles, tools, and machinery, seeking divine blessings for safety and prosperity.

According to the Markandeya Purana, Goddess Chamunda defeated the demon Raktabij on this auspicious day, adding to its religious significance.

Meanwhile, the Taleju Temple at Hanumandhoka in Kathmandu is open to devotees today, allowing them to pay homage—a rare opportunity, as the temple is accessible to the public only once a year.