President Poudel observes Bhoto Jatra (with photos)

KATHMANDU: President Ram Chandra Poudel observed Rato Machindranath’s Bhoto Jatra, the rain and time god.

The President attended the Bhoto Jatra festival at Jawalakhel this afternoon and observed the ritual of displaying the Bhoto (the jewel-studded mythical vest believed to belong to the deity).

Employees of Guthi Sansthan Lalitpur displayed the Bhoto on the fourth day after Machindranath’s chariot was pulled from Lagankhel to Jawalakhel, in the presence of President Ram Chandra Poudel.

On that occasion, President Poudel paid a visit to Rato Machindranath and accepted prasad. He also worshiped the living goddess Kumari.

Rath Jatra (chariot procession), which began on Baisakh 11 (April 24), has concluded for this year with displaying of Bhoto today.

The displaying of the Bhoto of the Rato Machhindranath deity was held in presence of high-ranking dignitaries at Jawalakhel on Thursday.

The Bhoto Jatra was observed by Vice President Ram Sahaya Prasad Yadav, Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda,’ Speaker Dev Raj Ghimire, Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister Narayan Kaji Shrestha, and ministers.

Machhindranath is worshiped as a god of abundance and wealth. Paying respect to Lord Machhindranath is thought to bring good luck and grant wishes.

As the government declared today a public holiday throughout the Kathmandu valley, a large crowd has assembled in and around Jawalakhel to celebrate the yearly event.