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People pay homage to departed family members during Balachaturdashi at Pashupatinath Temple

Balachaturdashi has its own charm and religious importance in people’s hearts. It is one of the many unique festivals that are only observed in Nepal. Photo: Chandra Bahadur Ale

Kathmandu, December 11

The Balachaturdashi festival is being observed nationwide today to commemorate departed souls. Devotees have congregated in Shiva temples, including the Pashupatinath Temple, since last night to participate in the festivities.

At night, devotees light lamps to honour departed family members and spend the night in vigilant observance. In the early hours of the next day, they sow the Satbeej (seven kinds of grains) around the temple premises.

The festival formally commences on the 13th day of the waning moon in the month of Mangsir (November/December), and today, it concludes with the ritualistic spreading of Satbeej around the shrines dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva.

Balachaturdashi
Pashupatinath Temple sees thousands of people during Balachaturdashi. Photo: Chandra Bahadur Ale

A large number of devotees thronged the Pashupatinath Temple to observe the Balachaturdashi festival. Those unable to visit Pashupatinath, go to Shiva shrines near their homes.

In anticipation of the Balachaturdashi festival, the Pashupati Area Development Trust (PADT) has imposed restrictions on the production, transportation, sale, purchase, storage, and consumption of alcohol and meat in the vicinity of the Pashupatinath Temple until December 13.

Balachaturdashi
People light lamps on Balachaturdashi at Pashupatinath Temple. Photo: Chandra Bahadur Ale

Violation of this order is punishable as per existing laws.

According to the PADT, the Nepal Army, Nepal Police, Armed Police Force, and PADT workforces have been mobilised to ensure there are no incidents during the festival.

Balachaturdashi
People light lamps at Pashupatinath Temple. Photo: Chandra Bahadur Ale

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Ale is a photojournalist at Onlinekhabar.

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