Kathmandu : The “Navaratri,” a nine-night festival celebrated as Bada Dashain, has officially begun today, marking a significant occasion for Hindus across the world.

Ghatasthapana takes place on Ashwin Shukla Pratipada, which is the first day of the bright half of the lunar month Asoj or Kartik. As per the Nepal Calendar Determination Committee, the auspicious moment for Ghatasthapana this year is set for 11:47 am today.

During this sacred hour, devotees worship the deity Shailaputri. The festival is a time to honor various deities, including Bhramacharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandamata, Katyayani, Kalaratri, Mahagauri, and Siddhidrati.

The first day is dedicated to worshipping Shailaputri through Vedic rituals and preparing for Jamara (barley shoots) by sowing maize and barley seeds in a jar filled with soil and cow dung to encourage germination.

Additionally, prayers are offered to Durga Bhavani, the goddess of power, today. The germination of the auspicious “Jamara” also begins at Hanumandhoka Dashain Ghar, following Vedic traditions. The committee has designated 10:26 am as the most favorable time for Dashain tika on October 21 (Kartik 4) this year.