Kushmanda Navami, also known as Akshaya Navami, Dhatri Navami, or Ichchha Navami, is being celebrated today in Mahottari district and other parts of Madhesh Province. The festival falls on the ninth day (Navami) of the bright fortnight of the month of Kartik and is observed with traditional rituals and community feasting.
According to Maithil tradition, it is customary to sit and eat at the base of the Indian Gooseberry (Amla) tree on this day. Preparations for this festival begin a day in advance, and families gather near home gardens, orchards, or forests where amla trees are found. Food is prepared and eaten collectively at the base of the tree. Those who have amla trees in their courtyard cook various dishes throughout the day and enjoy them with family at night. It is believed that if amla leaves fall into the food during cooking or eating, it brings good fortune.
Only vegetarian dishes—including special amla delicacies such as pickle, murabba, and chutney—are prepared during this festival. According to Dr. Ravindra Das Vaishnav, the successor of Laxminarayan Math in Matihani, the tradition encourages people to consume amla as winter approaches.
“Amla is considered a highly beneficial fruit. Its consumption during winter increases the body’s resistance to various diseases,” he said. “Our ancestors continued this festival to promote this valuable health practice.”
The festival is especially popular among teenagers and youth, who organize community picnics and forest feasts. Many believe that increasing youth participation in such cultural festivals helps preserve and promote traditional heritage. Cultural expert Dhruv Ray of Jaleshwar-5, Pataili said that such involvement ensures continuity and development of cultural identity.
Residents like senior health worker Girendra Kumar Jha of Bardibas-12 Bijalpura say the festival also plays a role in health awareness by promoting the regular use of amla in the diet.
Mythological Significance
According to Maithil tradition and Hindu mythology, the festival is linked with an ancient story from the Dwapar era. It is believed that on this day, Lord Krishna killed the demon Kushmanda before slaying King Kansa, and then performed a holy circumambulation (parikrama) of Mathura, Vrindavan, and Govardhan hills. Hence, the day is called Kushmanda Navami.
It is also believed that from Kartik Shukla Navami to Kartik Purnima, Lord Vishnu resides in amla trees. Worshipping Lord Vishnu on this day is believed to grant eternal merit (Akshaya Punya), which is why it is also called Akshaya Navami. Since wishes are believed to be fulfilled through devotion on this day, it is also known as Ichchha Navami. Due to the emphasis on consuming amla (Dhatri), the day is further known as Dhatri Navami, explained Dr. Rajendra Prasad Bimal, a renowned literary figure from Mithila.
He added that since amla is a highly nutritious fruit, the festival was established by ancestors to promote health awareness through cultural tradition.
About the Author
