Kushmanda Navami Festival Celebrated in Mahottari and Madhesh Province
The Kushmanda Navami festival is being celebrated across Mahottari and other districts of Madhesh Province on Kartik 13, 2082. Also known as Akshaya Navami, Dhatri Navami, and Iccha Navami, this festival is traditionally observed on the ninth day (Navami Tithi) of the bright fortnight in the month of Kartik. It is marked by collective feasting and joyous gatherings.
In the Mithila tradition, devotees eat their meals beneath an amla (Indian gooseberry) tree. Preparations for the communal meal begin a day earlier. On this day, people cook and eat food beneath an amla tree located near their homes, gardens, or nearby forests. Families who have an amla tree in their courtyard spend the day preparing various vegetarian dishes and share the meal together at night. It is believed that if amla leaves fall into the food while cooking or eating, it brings good fortune.
The festival involves preparing and consuming only vegetarian dishes, particularly those made from amla, such as pickles, murabba (sweet preserve), and chutney. According to Dr. Ravindra Das Vaishnav, the successor of the Laxminarayan Math in Matihani, this tradition encourages people to include more amla in their diet as winter approaches.
“Amla, also called Dhatri, is considered a highly beneficial fruit. Its consumption during winter strengthens the body’s resistance against various illnesses,” said Dr. Vaishnav. “Our ancestors introduced this festival to convey the message of good health and well-being.”
During this occasion, teenagers and youth are often seen organizing picnics and community gatherings. Many believe that the growing participation of the younger generation in traditional and cultural festivals is vital for preserving and continuing such traditions. Cultural expert Dhruva Rai of Jaleshwar–5, Pataili, noted that youth involvement ensures the preservation, growth, and continuity of cultural heritage. Similarly, senior health worker Girendra Kumar Jha from Bijalpur, Bardibas–12, stated that the tradition of emphasizing amla consumption during this festival also contributes to public health awareness.
The festival is also linked to a mythological story from the Dwapara Yuga. It is believed that on the day of Kartik Shukla Navami, Lord Krishna killed the demon Kushmanda and, before slaying Kansa, circumambulated the sacred regions of Mathura, Vrindavan, and Govardhan Hill. Hence, the day is known as Kushmanda Navami, explained cultural expert Rai.
According to Hindu Maithil belief, from Kartik Shukla Navami to the full moon (Purnima), Lord Vishnu resides in amla trees. Worshiping Lord Vishnu on this day is believed to bring eternal merit that never diminishes, which is why it is called Akshaya Navami. Similarly, devotion to Lord Vishnu on this day is said to fulfill one’s desires — hence the name Iccha Navami. Since the festival also highlights the significance of consuming amla (Dhatri), it is additionally called Dhatri Navami.
Renowned Maithil writer Dr. Rajendra Prasad Bimal explained that since amla is a highly nutritious food, the festival was established by ancestors as a reminder of health awareness and the importance of natural nourishment.
Published Date: 2082-07-13
Mahottari Festival