In kashmir, himachal pradesh, uttar pradesh and uttarakhand, it is traditional to plant barley seeds in earthen pots on the first day of navratri. on the day of dasara, the nine-day old sprouts (called noratras or nortas or of nav ratris or nine nights) are used as symbols of luck. men place them in their caps or behind their ears.
may you get your share of good luck on this festival of dussehra!