Maha Astami Observed Nationwide with Devotion

Hindus across Nepal observed Maha Astami, the eighth day of the ten-day Bada Dashain festival, with deep devotion and traditional rituals on Tuesday.

On this day, devotees worship Goddess Durga and her fierce manifestations, seeking blessings for strength, protection, and prosperity. Major temples dedicated to Durga and her forms, including Taleju Bhawani, Kalika, and other shrines, witnessed long queues of worshippers offering flowers, bel leaves, vermillion, and other sacred items.

A central ritual of Maha Astami is the offering of sacrifices to honor the goddess. While animal sacrifices such as goats, buffaloes, and birds were performed in some temples and households, many families opted for symbolic substitutes like pumpkins, coconuts, and other offerings. Priests also recited Durga Saptashati and other scriptures, highlighting the triumph of good over evil.

A special ritual known as Kalaratri will be observed tonight at Hanumandhoka Durbar Square, where traditional worship and tantric rites are performed in honor of Goddess Durga. The event, considered highly significant, is attended by priests, officials, and devotees.

The Dashain festival, regarded as the biggest in Nepal, continues with Maha Navami tomorrow, followed by Vijaya Dashami on the tenth day, when tika and jamara are offered as blessings from elders to younger family members.

Despite changing times, the observance of Maha Astami continues to reflect Nepal’s rich cultural and religious traditions, uniting families and communities in celebration.