KATHMANDU, FEBRUARY 9

Every year, amidst the ancient cityscape of Bhaktapur, Nepal, a profound spiritual journey unfolds during the month-long Madhav Narayan festival. Devotees embark on a pilgrimage steeped in tradition, seeking purification and blessings from Lord Madhav Narayan (Shiva).

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The festival commenced with devotees submerging themselves in the pristine waters of the Hanumante River, a sacred act symbolizing spiritual cleansing and renewal.

After the purifying dip, devotees embarked on a remarkable journey, rolling along the ancient cobblestone paths of Bhaktapur. Covering a distance of two kilometers, their physical exertion mirrored their spiritual dedication. Amidst the backdrop of historic temples and intricate architecture, the streets came alive with chants and rituals.

Photos by Skanda Gautam for The Himalayan Times

Devotees submerge themselves in the holy waters of the Hanumante River to offer prayers and perform rituals as a form of purification and to seek blessings from Lord Madhav Narayan during the Madhav Narayan festival in Bhaktapur, Nepal on February 9, 2024. Photo: Skanda Gautam/THT
Devotees submerge themselves in the holy waters of the Hanumante River to offer prayers and perform rituals as a form of purification and to seek blessings from Lord Madhav Narayan during the Madhav Narayan festival in Bhaktapur, Nepal on February 9, 2024. Photo: Skanda Gautam/THT

Devotees warm themselves after submerging in the holy waters of the Hanumante River offering prayers and performing rituals as a form of purification and to seek blessings from Lord Madhav Narayan during the Madhav Narayan festival in Bhaktapur, Nepal on February 9, 2024. Photo: Skanda Gautam/THT
Devotees warm themselves after submerging in the holy waters of the Hanumante River offering prayers and performing rituals as a form of purification and to seek blessings from Lord Madhav Narayan during the Madhav Narayan festival in Bhaktapur, Nepal on February 9, 2024. Photo: Skanda Gautam/THT

Devotees roll some two kilometers along the ancient city offering prayers and performing rituals as a form of purification and to seek blessings from Lord Madhav Narayan during the Madhav Narayan festival in Bhaktapur, Nepal on February 9, 2024. Photo: Skanda Gautam/THT
Devotees roll some two kilometers along the ancient city offering prayers and performing rituals as a form of purification and to seek blessings from Lord Madhav Narayan during the Madhav Narayan festival in Bhaktapur, Nepal on February 9, 2024. Photo: Skanda Gautam/THT

Devotees roll some two kilometers along the ancient city offering prayers and performing rituals as a form of purification and to seek blessings from Lord Madhav Narayan during the Madhav Narayan festival in Bhaktapur, Nepal on February 9, 2024. Photo: Skanda Gautam/THT
Devotees roll some two kilometers along the ancient city offering prayers and performing rituals as a form of purification and to seek blessings from Lord Madhav Narayan during the Madhav Narayan festival in Bhaktapur, Nepal on February 9, 2024. Photo: Skanda Gautam/THT

Devotees roll on the ground while offering prayers and performing rituals as a form of purification and to seek blessings from Lord Madhav Narayan during the Madhav Narayan festival in Bhaktapur, Nepal on February 9, 2024. Photo: Skanda Gautam/THT
Devotees roll on the ground while offering prayers and performing rituals as a form of purification and to seek blessings from Lord Madhav Narayan during the Madhav Narayan festival in Bhaktapur, Nepal on February 9, 2024. Photo: Skanda Gautam/THT

Devotees roll on the ground while offering prayers and performing rituals as a form of purification and to seek blessings from Lord Madhav Narayan during the Madhav Narayan festival in Bhaktapur, Nepal on February 9, 2024. Photo: Skanda Gautam/THT
Devotees roll on the ground while offering prayers and performing rituals as a form of purification and to seek blessings from Lord Madhav Narayan during the Madhav Narayan festival in Bhaktapur, Nepal on February 9, 2024. Photo: Skanda Gautam/THT

A devotee is reflected on a mirror of a temple while rolling along the ancient city to offer prayers and perform rituals as a form of purification and to seek blessings from Lord Madhav Narayan during the Madhav Narayan festival in Bhaktapur, Nepal on February 9, 2024. Photo: Skanda Gautam/THT
A devotee is reflected on a mirror of a temple while rolling along the ancient city to offer prayers and perform rituals as a form of purification and to seek blessings from Lord Madhav Narayan during the Madhav Narayan festival in Bhaktapur, Nepal on February 9, 2024. Photo: Skanda Gautam/THT