The five-day Bhaktapur Festival, organized by the Bhaktapur Municipality with the aim of attracting both domestic and international tourists, has officially commenced. This festival revives a similar event held 26 years ago.
Bhaktapur Mayor Sunil Prajapati expressed confidence that the festival would play a significant role in promoting the city as a prime tourist destination by showcasing its rich cultural heritage, historical art, and traditional lifestyle to both locals and foreign visitors.
The festival features a wide range of cultural and artistic activities, including traditional and modern dance performances, handicrafts, local industries, and culinary displays. Notable events include a flute-playing competition, devotional songs (Bhajan), traditional music ensembles (Nau Baja), and both traditional and contemporary cultural dances. Additionally, exhibitions of paubha (traditional scroll paintings), photography, and chhwalikala (a traditional form of art) will be held.
The festival will also highlight traditional costumes, musical instruments, the living goddess Kumari, and exhibitions of works like Dipankar Buddha and terracotta art. Furthermore, there will be agricultural product displays and a food festival to promote local cuisine. To make the festival even more engaging, exhibitions will be held at 32 locations across Bhaktapur, ensuring that the entire city is immersed in the festive atmosphere.