Deity Rato Machhindranath’s Idol Installed

The idol of Rato Machhindranath, worshipped as the deity of rain and prosperity, was ceremoniously installed in its chariot as per time-honored tradition today in Lalitpur. Accompanied by traditional music and the revered Guruju’s platoon, the idol was transferred from the temple in Ta Bahal, Lalitpur, and placed onto a palanquin before being enthroned in the 32-hand-long chariot currently under construction at Pulchowk.

Recognized as Nepal’s longest festival procession, the Rato Machhindranath Jatra follows a grand tradition. As part of the festivities, the deity has been enshrined in the chariot today. The chariot procession will commence four days later, on Thursday, Baisakh 18, when the people of Lalitpur will celebrate the revered event.

The chariot will be pulled from Pulchowk through Ga Bahal, Sundhara, and Lagankhel before reaching Jawalakhel, where the famous Bhoto Jatra—the ceremonial display of the sacred vest—is performed, marking the completion of the festival.

(Photos: RSS)