Why it is celebrated
Celebrates the Divine Mother Bhagwati (Durga) in Mithila—a historic land of Shakti Peethas and Tantric-Vedic synthesis.
History and Legend
From Ugratara Sthan (Mahishi) and Raj Rajeshwari (Darbhanga) to Uchchaith Bhagwati, Mithila has been a seat of Shakti worship for millennia, enriched by Vidyapati’s Bhagwati Geet ("Jai Jai Bhairavi").
When it is celebrated
Shardiya Navratri (October 11–20, 2026; Maha Ashtami/Navami on October 19, 2026).
How it is celebrated
Nine days of Kalash Sthapana, Durga Saptashati chanting, Bel-Nimantran on Shashthi, Khonchh Bharai by women, and evenings filled with the perforated clay-pot Jhijhiya folk dance.
About the Festival
During Navratri, every village in Mithila comes alive after dusk as women carry perforated earthen pots (Jhijhiya) lit with oil lamps on their heads, dancing and singing to invoke Goddess Brahmani for the protection of children and community.