Kathmandu: Hindus across Nepal are celebrating both Maha Astami and Mahanawami today as part of the Bada Dashain festival, with special prayers and offerings to Goddess Durga Bhawani. This year, the two significant days fall on the same date according to the lunar calendar, marking a rare confluence of religious events.

Devotees throughout the country are observing Maha Astami, the eighth day of Dashain, by worshipping the goddesses Mahakali, Mahalaxmi, and Maha Saraswati. It is believed that on this day, Goddess Durga attained immense power, and people commemorate the occasion with rituals at homes, temples, and armories. Many offer animal sacrifices, while others choose fruits and vegetables as symbolic offerings.

Simultaneously, Mahanawami, the ninth day of Dashain, is being celebrated with fervor. Special worship of Durga Bhawani is performed, and 'jamara'—sacred barley grass germinated earlier in the festival—is offered to the goddesses. According to ancient scriptures like the Markandeya Purana, this day is significant for the slaying of the demon Raktabij by Goddess Chamunda, and hence, many devotees offer sacrifices to honor the event.

In Kathmandu Valley, particularly at the Taleju Temple in Hanumandhoka, which opens only on Mahanawami, devotees are paying homage. Special midnight Kalaratri worship at the Dashain Ghar of Hanumandhoka is another highlight of the day. Security forces also perform kot puja, or worship of armories, as part of the traditional observances.

The Newar community marks the day with worship of Bhimsen, another revered deity, often accompanied by animal sacrifices.

This confluence of Maha Astami and Mahanawami has brought an added spiritual significance, drawing throngs of devotees to temples and ritual sites throughout Nepal.