Culture

Nepal boasts well over a hundred different ethnic groups, celebrating as many – if more – festivals. 

It was evident yet again this week as the Newar community living in Kathmandu valley - and beyond – observed Ghantakarna or Gathemangal festival by burning effigies of demons and worshipping Hindu god Bhairabha, symbolising the fiercest form of Lord Shiva.

In the mediaeval town of Bhaktapur, the community members on Tuesday made wheat-straw effigies of demons, dragged them around town before burning them. They also worshipped Bhairabh and other deities.

Legends have it that people do it to, besides reaping other benefits, get rid of pests and bugs that attack crops.

•    Newari community observes Ganthemangal

See some photos of Gathemangal celebration near Nyatapol temple in Bhaktapur: