Navadurga Bhawani procession begins in Jayabageshwori (photos)

KATHMANDU: The traditional procession of Navadurga Bhawani has begun in Jayabageshwori, Kathmandu.

The historic and significant procession of the living deity, Navadurga Bhawani, has commenced in Bhaktapur.

The festival began on Monday night.

The procession has witnessed a significant crowd of devotees. The festival will continue until tonight.

The worship of Bhawani during this procession is conducted through tantric rituals, lasting until midnight.

The event is part of a yearly procession that spans eight months, featuring the Makundo (sacred items) and is celebrated at this time each year. A symbolic meeting and exchange of offerings takes place between Pashupatinath Temple and Navadurga Deities.

The chief priest of Pashupatinath performs the worship of Navadurga Bhawani, and the holy water from Pashupatinath is then offered to Bhairab’s hand as part of the ritual.

At the Mulchok of Pashupatinath, the gods engage in dances, and all deities are visited. The ritual continues with a visit to the Gujeshwari deity on the east side, followed by a ceremonial procession to the Shiva Mandir at the southern end.

This marks the concluding act of the procession as the worship of the Pashupati Development Area is observed.

Additionally, at Jayabageshwori Temple, the first fish-catching procession of the year will be performed with the tradition of the “Khā Juyegu” (ritualistic stay) and a night-time dance presentation.

The following morning, the Barahi dance will take place, alongside the Sim Dumko fish-catching dance, the Mahakali dance, and the White Bhairab fish-catching procession. The performances will continue until the evening, before the procession returns to Bhaktapur.

As per tradition, deities carry their sacred items, including mask and attire, in either Kharpan or Khmu and continue their journey, keeping this practice intact.