LALITPUR, May 1: The annual Rato Machhindranath chariot festival commenced on Thursday with the pulling of the chariot from Pulchowk.
The revered deity, regarded as the god of rain and prosperity, was placed on the towering wooden chariot earlier this week in a ritual known as "ratharohan" (chariot enthronement). According to tradition, the chariot will be pulled through various parts of Patan, starting with its journey to Ga: Bahal on the first day.
Rato Machhindranath's chariot procession begins today
Thousands of devotees gathered to witness the event, which marks the beginning of one of the Kathmandu Valley's oldest and most culturally significant festivals. The festival, celebrated mainly by the Newar community, includes a month-long procession and culminates with the Bhoto Jatra, where a sacred vest is displayed to the public.
