Panauti is one of the oldest Newari cities outside of Kathmandu, and lies in 32 kilometers east. The city celebrated its annual Jyaa Punhi Jatra on Thursday; the festival ended on Saturday.
The festival is celebrated by bringing out gods/goddess Brahmyani, Indreswor Shiva, Bhadrakali and Unmanta Bhairav from their respective temples. The significance of this festival, however, lies in the fact that it is celebrated as a means to bring rainfall. Thus, it is considered a bad omen should rain not grace the festivities.
Ropai Jatra sees decline in Palpa (Photo Feature)
Till today, however, rain has always managed to fall during the time of the festival. During this festival, there are various attractions, people play with vermillion power, visit temples for worship, sacrifice animals to the god and goddess which also includes a chariot procession of Lord Bhairav and goddess Bhadrakali; which is followed by a procession of Lord Shiva whose chariot is unique because it does not have any wheels and is thus carried by devotees.
It is also believed that if the young priest, riding atop the chariot, falls during the trip then the ones carrying the chariot as well as the devotees watching the procession will be blessed with monetary windfall.
