BHAKTAPUR: The historic streets and squares of Bhaktapur came alive with Gai Jatra celebrations on Saturday, as large crowds gathered to remember family members who passed away during the past year while continuing one of the Kathmandu Valley’s most important Newar traditions.
Families remembering deceased relatives joined traditional processions through the old city, carrying symbolic structures and portraits of their loved ones. Crowds filled Bhaktapur Durbar Square and surrounding heritage streets, turning the ancient city into a vibrant gathering of remembrance, culture and community.
Traditional music, dances and street performances were also part of the celebrations. Groups of young participants could be seen performing with wooden sticks, while residents and visitors gathered along the streets and temple squares to watch the processions.
Gai Jatra, also known as Sa Paru in Nepal Bhasa, is traditionally observed by families who have lost a loved one during the previous year. The festival combines remembrance with humour, music, satire and community participation, reflecting the belief that grief can be shared and eased through collective support.
Bhaktapur is particularly known for maintaining its own distinctive forms of Gai Jatra. Traditional processions move through the historic city, accompanied by music and performances that have been passed down through generations.
This year’s celebration once again brought together remembrance and living heritage, as thousands filled Bhaktapur’s centuries-old streets to honour the departed while keeping the city’s unique cultural traditions alive.
Photos: Adarsh Tamang
