Goddess temples across the nation draw crowds on second day of Bada Dashain

Special decorations, devotional hymns and sacred chants have enlivened temple premises as worshippers observe Navaratri rituals and seek blessings ahead of Bijaya Dashami

Devotees visiting the famous Pathibhara shrine in Taplejung. Photo credit: Rajendra Mahat

KATHMANDU: On the second day of Bada Dashain, activity among devotees has increased at Goddess temples and Shakti Pithas (Sacred Hindu pilgrimage shrines dedicated to Aadi Shakti) across the country. On the occasion of Navaratri, crowds of people reaching temples for worship and adoration have formed since early morning.

Devotee pressure has increased in temples of the Kathmandu Valley, including Guhyeshwari, Jayabageshwari, Maitidevi, Kalikasthan, Naxal Bhagwati, Bhadrakali, Shobha Bhagwati, Bijeshwari, Indrayani, Raktakali, Shwetakali, Dakshinkali, Chamundamai, Sundarimai, Bajrayogini, Bangalamukhi, and Tokha Chandeshwari.

With the arrival of Dashain, Shakti Pithas have been decorated with flags, banners, and attractive decorations. Goddess hymns, auspicious tunes, and recitals of sacred chants echoing in temple premises have made the atmosphere devotional. An attractive arch gate has been constructed on the road entering the Maitidevi temple, while the Naxal Bhagwati temple premises have also been specially decorated.