Hindus Across Nepal Observe Kojagrat Poornima, Culminating Bada Dashain Festival

Hindus across Nepal are observing Kojagrat Poornima (full moon day) today, marking the final day of the 15-day Bada Dashain festival. Devotees are worshipping Mahalaxmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, in homes and community spaces, as part of the traditional celebrations.

The Bada Dashain festival formally concludes on Kojagrat Poornima. In the evening, devotees offer prayers to Mahalaxmi and keep a night-long vigil, a practice deeply rooted in religious belief. According to tradition, the goddess Mahalaxmi is believed to travel around the world on this night to observe who maintains the vigil. Those found observing the ritual are blessed with wealth and prosperity.

Apart from worship, the day also marks the conclusion of the Tika and Jamara rituals, which are central to the Dashain celebrations. Jamara, sprouted and consecrated at the Dashainghar and local Kot during the festival's Ghatasthapana, is traditionally disposed of in ponds, rivers, and other sacred sites in accordance with religious customs.

Devotees across the country continue to follow these rituals with devotion, highlighting the cultural and spiritual significance of Kojagrat Poornima in Nepali society. The observance not only reflects reverence for the goddess of wealth but also serves as a unifying moment for families and communities, bringing an end to the festive season of Bada Dashain.