Festive atmosphere in ancient Mithila as Basanti Navratri begins

MAHOTTARI: The ancient Mithila region of Madhes Province has embraced a festive spirit with the commencement of Chaitra Shukla Paksha.

Basanti Navratri began on Sunday with Chaitra Shukla Pratipada, marking the start of Hindu Maithili traditions such as Chaitra Chhath.

This year, with Eid also falling within Basanta Navaratri, the celebratory atmosphere has intensified.

Maithilis following the Hindu tradition are actively preparing for Basanti Navaratri, which begins with Ghatasthapana in various Shaktipeeths and temples across the ancient Mithila region, including Mahottari.

Celebrated for nine days from Chaitra Shukla Pratipada to Nawami, Basanta Navratri follows the Maithil tradition of worshiping Nava Durga each day.

On the first day, devotees install a sacred kalash in a new clay pot, performing Chandi Path alongside Navadurga worship.

Over nine days, different forms of Goddess Durga—Shailputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandamata, Katyayani, Kalaratri, Mahagauri, and Siddhidatri—are venerated.

As Navratri begins, Goddess Shaktipeeths in Mithila are filled with devotional hymns.