The annual Rath Yatra of Red Machhindranath, revered as the deity of rain and prosperity, is set to reach Jawalakhhel today. According to Baikuntha Acharya, the head of the Guthi Sansthan Lalitpur, residents from Pulchowk in Lalitpur, along with communities from Chandragiri and Kirtipur municipalities, will pull the chariot to Jawalakhhel.
The seven villages from Kirtipur participating in the event include Satungal, Naikap, Machhegaun, Panga, Nagaun, Boshi Gaun, and Kirtipur. Chandragiri Municipality Chief Ghanashyam Giri announced that the chariot will be pulled with traditional musical accompaniment and festive processions. He emphasized the municipality’s commitment to preserving traditional festivals, customs, and cultural heritage.
The chariot procession is scheduled to commence at 4 PM today. Acharya confirmed that all preparations for the procession have been completed. Following the event, a tradition involves showing the Bhoto (a ceremonial vest) in the presence of national dignitaries, which will take place four days after the chariot reaches Jawalakhhel.
The Rath Yatra began on Baishakh 27 this year with the ceremonial chariot procession from Pulchok, marking the start of Nepal’s longest festival. The journey of the chariot, originating from Machhindra Bahal Temple, will continue through various localities including Gauvahal, Mangalbazar, Sundhara, and Lagankhel before culminating in Jawalakhhel.
This chariot festival, one of Kathmandu Valley’s most famous and historic celebrations, began approximately 1,600 years ago. It traditionally starts on the first day of Baishakh (the Nepalese lunar month) and continues until the fourth day of Asar, spanning nearly two months.
A notable tradition involves taking the chariot to Bungmati for six months after the festival, before being brought back to Patan Machhindra Bahal. This year, Chiri Babu Maharjan, the Mayor of Lalitpur Metropolitan City, also announced that following the completion of the Rath Yatra, fish will be released into the Saptapatal Pokhari, reviving an old tradition that had been discontinued due to the pond’s destruction.
The Rath Yatra of Red Machhindranath remains a significant and culturally rich event, showcasing the deep-rooted traditions and vibrant heritage of the Kathmandu Valley.
