Khame jatra held in Bhaktapur, Khadga jatra in Patan on Mahanawami

In Bhaktapur, the traditional Khame Wakegu — the buffalo-chasing jatra — was held on Tuesday evening on the occasion of Mahanawami.

A black buffalo, regarded as a symbol of the demon Mahishasur, is chased from Nawadurga Dyochhen to the Brahmayani Pith.

According to cultural experts, the jatra is linked to the religious belief that on Mahanawami, Tripurasundari appears in the form of the Nawadurga Bhawani. It is considered one of the main jatras of the Mohani festival.

According to Narayan Man Banmala, advisor to the organization managing the jatra, this year's event concluded faster than in previous years.

After the jatra, a fair has begun at the Brahmayani temple, where devotees gather through the night.

In Lalitpur's Patan, the Khadga Jatra — also known as Paya — was also celebrated on Mahanawami.

According to Samrajyadev Shrestha, chairperson of the Manmaneshwari Payo Jatra Management Committee, worship began at 5 am at the Mahalaxmi temple after bringing the sword from Mulchowk in Mangal Bazar.

After the worship, deities' representatives and guthiyars carried the ancient sword around the city before returning to Mulchowk.

Starting from Ghatasthapana, the jatra's main festivities are seen on Ashtami and Nawami.