Thousands of devotees flocked to Dantakali temple in Dharan, eastern Nepal, on the occasion of Maha Asthami, the eighth day of Bada Dashain, on Tuesday.

As part of the religious tradition, thousands of male goats were sacrificed in the worship of goddess Durga, the symbol of power, while elaborate rituals were performed from early morning at Dantakali.

Kedar Dhungel, a priest, who has been reading Stotra (prayers conducted to appease the goddess) since last 14 years, says reciting Stotra is important for making goddess Durga happy so that happiness and prosperity knock the doors of devotees.

Laxmi Giri from Khanar, Sunari district, comes here to sacrifice a male-goat to Dantakali. Says, “I believe that worship of the goddess brings prosperity in our lives.” Like Laxmi, there are thousands of others who visit this temple on Maha Asthami every year.

Dantakali Mandir, one of the most famous temples in the eastern region, is situated in Bijayapur, northern part of Dharan.

Sacrifices and special offerings were made at Dashainghars and Kots as well as shrines of various goddesses and Shakti Peeth (shrines) in other parts of the eastern region on the occasion of Maha Asthami.

The worship of Shree Durga Bhawani at Dashainghars over nine days concludes formally on the day of Vijaya Dashami. After that “Abhishekh” or holy water is sprinkled to mark the beginning of Tika. nepalnews.com Sanu Ghimire (in Dharan) Oct 11 05