KATHMANDU, Oct 3: The first day of "Nawaratri" is being marked today by preparing for Jamara (barley shoots) by sowing maize and barley seeds in a jar filled with soil and cow dung for germination. Similarly, on the occasion of Ghatasthapana, the first day of the festival, Jamara was placed in Hanuman Dhoka’s Dashain Ghar on the auspicious site of 9:16 AM by holding a special ceremony on Thursday.
Jamara placed in Hanuman Dhoka Dashain Ghar (With Pictures)
Prayers are also offered to Durga Bhawani, the goddess of power, today. With the marking of Ghatasthapana, celebrations and worship take place in the Shaktipeeths across the country including in the Kathmandu Valley.
Here are some pictures of Hanuman Dhoka Durbar Square taken by Republica photojournalist Dipesh Darshanadhikari: