Lalitpur, Khokana: The historic and culturally significant Sikali Jatra was recently celebrated in Khokana, Ward No. 21 of Lalitpur Metropolitan City, a village renowned for not observing Dashain.
The five-day festival, which holds deep religious importance for the local Newar community, began on the eve of Ghatasthapana (Ashwin Shukla Pratipada) with the ritual sacrifice of a ram in front of Rudrayani School.
The celebration started with Kumar boys, young men who maintain ritual purity by bathing daily and eating only one meal, going door to door for two days to collect offerings and puja materials. On Tritiya, these materials were carried to Sikali Chaur, where the sacred Sikali Temple stands, for worship and ceremonial observance.
As per tradition, a ram was sacrificed before Rudrayani School before the procession moved to Sikali Chaur. The Rudrayani Devta Mandal organized the Jatra in collaboration with Ta Guthi, Sala Guthi, and Jaun Guthi.
“If the Jatra is interrupted even once, it is believed to end forever. Therefore, we are committed to its continuation,” said Ward Chairman Maharjan, adding that the event was conducted in adherence to government health protocols.
From Tritiya to Shashti, 46 participants, including 16 individuals wearing deity masks accompanied by traditional musicians, circumambulated Khokana, reenacting divine performances that embody the village’s rich heritage and devotion.
Story and Photo by Beeju Maharjan (TDN):
