Bhaktapur – Thousands of devotees gathered at Brahmayani Temple in Bhaktapur from midnight to celebrate the traditional Brahmayani Jatra on Vijaya Dashami, the main day of Nepal’s Bada Dashain festival.
Dedicated to Brahmayani, one of the Astamatrikas (Eight Mother Goddesses), the temple is regarded as an important Shakti Peeth. According to local belief, Goddess Tripura Sundari manifests at the temple on Vijaya Dashami, attracting worshippers from Bhaktapur, Madhyapur Thimi, Kavre, Lalitpur, Kathmandu and surrounding areas.
The festival is marked by traditional music, religious offerings and distinctive rituals that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the Newar community. Devotees arrive at the temple to the rhythmic beats of dhime drums, while some undertake arduous acts of devotion as prayers for their families’ well-being and prosperity.
One of the most striking rituals involves male devotees who observe fasts and make their way from their homes to the temple by crawling or rolling on the ground, with five, seven or 18 burning oil lamps placed on different parts of their bodies. The practice is rooted in the belief that sincere devotion brings religious merit, fulfils wishes and ensures family well-being.
Newar households also observe Mohani Nakha on the occasion, traditionally applying black tika and taking offerings to the temple. Devotees offer jamara and flowers, while animal sacrifices form part of the traditional worship.
The jatra is also associated with the ritual sacrifice of Khyame, a buffalo representing the demon Mahishasura. Traditionally raised at the Nawadurga Temple, the buffalo is fed local liquor, smeared with vermilion powder and oil, and chased towards Brahmayani Temple before being sacrificed. The ritual takes place on the eve of Vijaya Dashami and marks the beginning of the festivities.
Brahmayani Jatra remains an important part of Bhaktapur’s living cultural heritage, bringing together religious devotion, traditional music and centuries-old Newar customs. Celebrated during Dashain, the festival reflects the broader Hindu belief in Goddess Durga’s victory over Mahishasura and the triumph of good over evil.
Here are some remarkable photographs captured by renowned Chinese travel photographer Su Xue, showcasing the devotion, vibrant rituals and cultural splendour of Brahmayani Jatra in Bhaktapur. The images offer a glimpse into Nepal’s rich living heritage and the centuries-old traditions that continue to thrive during Dashain.
