Maha Ashtami
महाअष्टमी
October 18, 2026 · Kartik 1, 2083 BS
Nationwide
Plan a trip around Maha AshtamiHistory & origin
Considered the most powerful night of Navaratri, associated with Kalratri ('the dark night'), when Durga's ferocity in battle against Mahishasura is held to have peaked — the traditional basis for the day's animal sacrifices, offered as a substitute for the demon's own blood in the myth.
How it’s celebrated
Goats and buffalo are ceremonially sacrificed at Durga/Kali temples and, historically, in a large public ceremony at Kathmandu's Kot courtyard tied to the Nepali army; households with home shrines to Durga or a family deity (kul devta) perform their own sacrifice or a vegetarian equivalent. Devotees fast and keep vigil through the associated Kalratri night.
Tips for visitors
Not for the squeamish if you seek out the Kot courtyard ceremony — a good day to check ahead if animal sacrifice is something you'd rather avoid seeing.
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