Gai Jatra observed in Kathmandu (Photo feature)

KATHMANDU, August 16: The traditional festival Gai Jatra (cow festival) is being observed in Kathmandu and across the country today.

According to the lunar Nepal Era calendar, the festival falls on the first day of the dark fortnight of Gunla in the month of Bhadra (August-September).

The festival is mainly celebrated in Kathmandu valley by the Newar community. Apart from Kathmandu Valley, the festival is also observed in Banepa, Dhulikhel, Trishuli, Dolakha, Khotang, Bhojpur, Chainpur, Ilam, Dharan, Biratnagar, Birgunj, Hetauda and Pokhara.

People wear strange costumes to commemorate those who died during the past year. The bereaved families offer fruits, bread, beaten rice, curd and money to those participating in the procession including the cows.

Photos: Mukunda Kalikote