POKHARA: The Gandaki Kotihom Mahayagya 2082, initially planned at Barahighat, has been relocated to Birauta, Pokhara.
Organized by Manav Sewa Foundation Nepal, the religious event will now take place at Sadashiva Siddheshwar Harihar Temple in Pokhara-17.
The temple’s Guthi land, along with nearby private land, has been secured for the event, which will be held from March 30, 2025, to June 9, 2025.
The relocation follows a dispute that arose on March 7 during a ground breaking ceremony at Barahighat, where Pokhara Metropolitan Police intervened to halt the ritual. The situation escalated, leading to a clash between the two sides.
In response, Pokhara Mayor Dhanraj Acharya convened a meeting on March 10 at the Kaski District Administration Office.
The meeting included local officials, security agency representatives, ward representatives, and members of the World Hindu Federation and Manav Sewa Foundation Nepal.
A problem-solving committee was formed to find an alternative location for the event.
Following the committee’s decision, Pokhara Metropolitan City Ward No. 6 (Lakeside) was ruled out, and the event was relocated to Ward No. 17.
The temple management committee, local ward office, and district administration have now granted permission to hold the Mahayagya at this new location.
On Sunday, the event’s key patron, Bijay Shreekrishna Murti, received support from representatives of women’s groups, community development committees, and local organizations to ensure the success of the Kotihom Mahayagya.
Previously, Pokhara Metropolitan City had warned of legal action against the event organizers for unauthorized tree-cutting in various areas.
The case has now reached the courts, and despite an agreement between the metropolitan office and the organizers, the legal proceedings remain ongoing.
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