The biggest Hindu festival of Nepal, Dashain, has officially begun today with the ritual of Ghatasthapana. Families across the country have planted jamara (barley seeds) in their homes to mark the start of the festival.
Auspicious time for rituals
According to the Nepal Panchang Committee, the exact auspicious time for Ghatasthapana this year was 9:13 in the morning. On this day, devotees set up a kalash (sacred pot), light lamps, and establish Navadurga in their prayer rooms. Some traditions also include the worship of Brahma.
Ritual practices
People prepare a clean space with soil or sand brought from rivers or streams, then sow barley seeds around the kalash. For the next ten days, families perform daily prayers, waiting for the jamara to grow. This is considered a symbol of good fortune and victory of truth over evil.
Public holiday and closures
Since Ghatasthapana is a major religious event, the government has declared a public holiday today. All government offices, banks, financial institutions, schools, and colleges remain closed. The Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE) is also closed for the day, meaning no share trading will take place.
