Buddha Jayanti is the birth anniversary of
Gautam Buddha- light of Asia. Buddha was born in 563 BC in Kapilvastu,
Lumbini. Therefore, it is an auspicious day, not just for the Buddhists but
also for the others in the country.
People visit Swayambhunath, Boudhanath,
Lumbini and other stupas and monasteries during the day. The beautifully lit
butter lamps make these holy sites look more magical in the evening.
One may observe parade or large gatherings
where monks, nuns, and followers read prayers and tell moral or life story of
Lord Buddha. People do Dana Dharma to show generosity by helping others.
Nepal is rich in cultural and traditional
practices. The country observes many other festivals like Eid, Christmas, Gathe
Mangal, Sivaratri, Krishnasthami etc. Kathmandu valley itself observes numerous
Jatras (festivals) like Ghode Jatra, Bhoto Jatra, and others.
While some of these come from the epics and
legends of Hinduism and Buddhism, others are the result of age-old traditions,
cultures of bygone kings and historical events.
Jatras are usually long processions from one
part of the city to the other carrying various deities in chariots called
‘raths’ with mascots according to the theme of the Jatra. Following are some of
the most spectacular Jatras celebrated in the valley.