Thousands of Hindu devotees flocked to puja mandaps across the country yesterday to celebrate Kumari Puja. The celebrations marked the triumph of good over evil.
The rituals began in the morning where girls were worshipped as the goddess at puja mandaps, including the capital’s Ramkrishna Mission.The worshipped girl symbolises the power that regulates creation, stability and destruction on earth.
The goddess is bathed symbolically and dressed for the final battle. It is believed that on this day, Durga killed the demon.
In old days, a buffalo was offered as sacrifice to the goddess. These days, bananas, pumpkins and cucumbers replaced the animal.
Also known as Maha Ashtami, the day holds special significance in the social and religious calendar of the Hindus.
-With UNB input
