Khoicha is traditionally prepared in the evening of Durga Ashtami.
According to the expert, devotees should begin by bringing five earthen lamps to the temple and lighting them.
Navratri is a Hindu festival celebrated over nine days to worship the goddess Durga. Devotees observe fasts, engage in music and dance, and adorn themselves in colourful outfits. The 10-day festivities signify the triumph of good over evil. The eighth day of the festivities also known as Mahashtami is considered to be the most auspicious.
According to Pandit Manotpal Jha, the practice of preparing Mata’s Khoicha on Durga Ashtami has ancient origins, dating back for generations. Speaking exclusively with , he emphasised that the ritual ensures the well-being of one’s children and obtains various desired outcomes. It’s worth noting that the Khoicha is traditionally prepared in the evening of Durga Ashtami. Check are the following things one requires to complete the ritual listed by Pandit Manotpal.
Pandit Manotpal explained that the tradition of making offerings has ancient roots. People have long engaged in religious practices, work and faith to seek blessings from Goddess Durga. When their wishes were granted through her grace, they would lovingly place essential items in her lap as an offering, express their devotion and offer their gratitude. He said that Khoicha is always filled on the evening of Ashtami.
According to him, devotees should begin by bringing five earthen lamps (diyas) to the temple and lighting them. They should also bring offerings such as rice, dubri, a lump of turmeric, five betel leaves, five betel nuts, as well as sweets and batasha. Additionally, devotees may offer money, Sari and cosmetic items to the goddess.
The expert also mentioned wrapping all these ingredients in a chunri, taking the offerings to the temple and asking the temple priest to offer them at the feet of the Goddess Durga.
Pandit Manotpal recalled how, since childhood, he observed his mother and other women grinding Arwa rice to prepare pithar on Ashtami night. They would stay awake all night, sewing new clothes and partaking in various rituals.
He also mentioned that while some individuals may choose not to fast or consume fruits, it is still possible for them to perform the Khoichha ritual. He said that devotion to the goddess Durga is the key, and even if one has eaten, they can fill the Khoicha and have their wishes fulfilled. The act of filling Khoicha is believed to be a powerful means of manifesting one’s wishes.
