Mithila region begins Navaratri tradition of filling khoinchha

With Saptami, the seventh day of Sharadiya Navaratri, the Mithila-Madhesh region has begun the tradition of filling khoinchha alongside worship of goddess Durga.

The khoinchha-filling ritual is observed specially from Saptami through Mahanawami. As per religious belief, women fill the khoinchha with akshata (unbroken rice), vermilion, fruits, sweets and other items. A paper jhaap is also offered during the worship.

The ritual is performed with the wish for happiness, peace and prosperity in the family, and for the wellbeing of children.

Crowds of married women have gathered to fill khoinchha at the Durga Bhawani temple in Siraha's district headquarters. Saptami is also called Fulpati, and on this day the Fulpati sent from Gorkha Durbar was brought into the Dasainghar at Hanumandhoka in Kathmandu.