Bada Dashain begins today, Ghatasthapana performed and jamara planted in homes

Nepal's great festival of Bada Dashain has begun today. On this day of Asoj Shukla Pratipada, Ghatasthapana is being performed in homes across the country.

The auspicious time for Ghatasthapana today is 11:47 am. On this day, households install a lamp, a sacred pot (kalash) and Lord Ganesh according to Vedic rituals. Following this, Goddess Durga is worshipped and jamara (sacred sprouted barley) is planted as part of Ghatasthapana.

With Ghatasthapana, special worship of Navadurga will continue for nine days starting today.

Bada Dashain formally begins every year on Asoj Shukla Pratipada. The festival is celebrated with great fanfare for 15 days, until Asoj Shukla Purnima (full moon).