Why devotees sow barley on Navratri Day 1. On the first day of Shardiya Navratri, devotees sow barley (jau) seeds during Ghatasthapana. Rooted in the belief that barley was the first crop created by Lord Brahma, the ritual symbolises prosperity and Maa Durga's blessings. Shoots grown over nine days are distributed among family members after the festival concludes.