Kathmandu – On Ashwin Shukla Navami, the final day of Navratri, devotees across Nepal are worshipping Goddess Siddhidatri, the ninth form of Navadurga, with traditional rituals at temples and homes.

According to Sanatan Vedic tradition, the ninth day of Navratri is dedicated to Siddhidatri, believed to grant liberation and fulfill desires. Revered by sages, Gandharvas, Yakshas, gods, and demons, she is also called Siddhidayini, the giver of divine powers.

Religious texts state that remembering the nine forms of Goddess Durga, as revealed by Lord Brahma to Rishi Markandeya, frees devotees from sorrow and obstacles.

Navratri begins with Ghatasthapana and the worship of Shailaputri, followed by daily worship of the successive goddesses, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandamata, Katyayani, Kalaratri, and Mahagauri. Today, the final worship is dedicated to Siddhidatri.

During the nine days, devotees recite scriptures like Durga Saptashati (Chandi) and Shrimad Devi Bhagavatam, seeking strength, prosperity, and wisdom. Offerings from the worship are distributed as prasad from Vijayadashami until Kojagrat Purnima.

As Mahanavami marks the conclusion of Navratri, large crowds are gathering at Shakti Peeths and temples across the country. Many households are also observing special rituals, including animal sacrifices in line with tradition.