The Bhoto Jatra was celebrated in Jawalakhel, Lalitpur, marking the final day of the Rato Machhindranath Chariot Festival. Rato Machhindranath, revered as the deity of rain and good harvest, has a unique tradition of displaying a sacred vest (bhoto) on the concluding day of the festival.
President Ram Chandra Poudel, along with other distinguished personalities, attended the event to witness this grand celebration. With the display of the bhoto, the longest festival in the Kathmandu Valley, the Rato Machhindranath Chariot Festival, officially concluded.
According to folklore, during the Rato Machhindranath chariot procession, the queen of Naga King Karkotaka suffered from an eye ailment. A humble farmer cured her, and in gratitude, the Naga King gifted him a precious jewel-encrusted vest (bhoto).
However, the vest was later lost while the farmer was working in his field. During the Rato Machhindranath chariot festival, the farmer saw his lost bhoto being worn by another person, leading to a dispute over its ownership. To resolve the conflict, the tradition of publicly displaying the bhoto was initiated, allowing anyone with valid proof to claim it.
As per tradition, until the rightful owner comes forward with proof of ownership, the bhoto remains with the Rato Machhindranath deity.
The Bhoto Jatra, therefore, is not only a vibrant cultural celebration but also a reflection of ancient traditions and legends that continue to hold significance in the present day.
