Ghatasthapana, the first day of one of the country’s biggest festivals Dashain has begun from today (October 5, 2013). This day is observed by Hindus sowing seeds for jamara at homes and temples.

Hindus across the country will sow maize and barley seeds in a pot filled with soil and cow dung to let them sprout as ‘jamara’ which is used the 10th day of Dashain, also known as ‘Bada Dashain’ when tika is observed.

Ghatasthapana is observed on the first day of the bright half of the lunar calendar in the month of Ashwin when Hindus set up oil lamp, kalash and Lord Ganesh in houses as per the Vedic tradition.

It is also called Navaratri Parba (nine nights festival). Thousands of devotees throng temples of Mahakali, Mahalaxmi and Mahasaraswati to offer prayers and puja during the Navaratri.

Devotees offer prayers to Durga Bhavani, the goddess of power during the festival. Ghatasthapana is also observed at Hanumandhoka Dashain Ghar.

The seventh, eighth and ninth day of the festival is called Fulpati, Ashtami and Nawami. People receive tika, jamara and blessings from elders on the 10th day of Dashain.

According to Panchanga Nirnayak Samiti, 9:51am is auspicious for Ghatasthapana.

Similarly, 9:57 am is auspicious for receiving Dashain tika.