KATHMANDU: Nepali Hindus are observing Kojagrat Purnima today, marking the conclusion of the 15-day Bada Dashain festival with prayers and rituals dedicated to Goddess Mahalaxmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity.
On this occasion, devotees worship Mahalaxmi in the evening and stay awake throughout the night as part of a longstanding religious tradition.
According to popular belief, Goddess Mahalaxmi roams the world on the night of Kojagrat Purnima to see who remains awake. Those who keep vigil are believed to receive her blessings and prosperity, said Dr Purushottam Bhattarai, chairperson of the Nepal Calendar Determination Committee.
Kojagrat Purnima also marks the formal conclusion of Dashain’s Tika and Jamara rituals. The Jamara grown and consecrated at the Dashain Ghar and Kot on Ghatasthapana is disposed of according to religious customs.
Devotees also perform worship at the Swayambhu Chaitya and observe the night-long vigil by lighting the Mahadeep lamp.
Meanwhile, according to the calendar approved by the Nepal Calendar Determination Committee, special worship of Tulasi (holy basil), following the commencement of the Kartik ritual bathing period, will begin on Monday.
The Akashdeepdan ritual, which involves lighting and offering lamps to the sky, will also begin on Monday evening.