KATHMANDU: Lalitpur is abuzz with the commencement of the Samyak Mahadan festival, also known as the festival of Dipankara Buddha, a rare event celebrated once every five years.
The festivities kicked off with great fervor as 126 statues of gods, gathered from various Bihars and Maha Bihars across Lalitpur, were ceremoniously assembled at Mangal Bazar and then escorted to Nag Bahal, signifying the auspicious beginning of the festival.
Historically, the Samyak Mahadan festival was observed annually until 1861 BS.
However, following the encroachment of land belonging to Samyak Guthi by King Rana Bahadur Shah, financial constraints led to a change in its frequency.
Organizers then opted to collect revenue and donations over five years to fund the event, transitioning to a five-yearly celebration.
During this special occasion, devotees from diverse backgrounds come together to offer various gifts, including monetary donations and food, to the deities, their guardians, monks, and the wider Buddhist community.
The adorned statues are now on public display, inviting devotees to offer their prayers throughout the day. As the day draws to a close, the statues will be respectfully returned to their respective Bihars and Mahabihars, marking the conclusion of this auspicious festival.
Here are some captivating images captured by Khabarhub photojournalist Chirayu Shakya, depicting the vibrant spirit of the Samyak Mahadan festival.
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