With the approach of Navaratri, the Shakti Peeths in the Kathmandu Valley have begun to be decorated. The temples such as Naksal Bhagwati, Maitidevi, Kalikastan, Shobhabhagwati, Raktakali, Shwetkali, Bijeshwari, Chamundamai, and others have been adorned with lights and decorations. These decorations have been ongoing for the past week.

Navaratri, which spans nine nights from Ashwin Shukla Pratipada to Ashwin Shukla Navami, is a significant festival in Nepal. During this time, Shakti Peeths across the Kathmandu Valley and the rest of the country witness a large influx of devotees. Dalbahadur Karki, Chairman of the Maitidevi Temple Management Committee and Ward Chairman of Kathmandu Metropolitan City-30, informed that all preparations for Navaratri at the Maitidevi Temple have been completed.

During Navaratri, devotees believe that visiting the Shakti Peeths for worship and darshan will fulfill their wishes. At homes, worship of Navadurga is performed with Ghatasthapana, and devotees also recite texts like Durga Saptashati (Chandi), Srimad Devi Bhagwat, and other devotional hymns. This year’s Navaratri will begin on Monday, Ashoj 6, and will continue until Ashoj 15, according to the calendar approved by the Nepal Panchanga Nirnayak Committee.

The prasads from the worship performed during the nine days of Navaratri are consumed from Ashoj 16, the day of Vijayadashami, until the full moon day of Ashwin Shukla. On Vijayadashami, it is customary for people to receive tika, prasad, and blessings from their elders.