Paschim yatra of Rato Machhindranath(Photo Feature)

By TRN Online, Kathmandu, June 18: Rato Machhindranath has been pulled from Lagankhel to Jawalakhel . This is also called the Pashim Yatra (West Journey). It is regarded as a significant step in the chariot pulling. 

The historic red chariot of Machhindranath, who is worshiped as the god of rain and the seasons, is moved to different places in Lalitpur. Rato Machhindranath is the longest Jatra celebrated in Nepal.

Gorakhnath was once denied donations by the people of Kantipur. Angered, he sat on the Navanag at Pashupati in Mrigasthali.

It is believed that Gorakhnath’s meditation had suppressed the serpents, causing the drought. With Machhindranath’s arrival, Gorakhnath rose, freeing the serpents and bringing rainfall. In celebration, locals began the chariot procession, originally known as Jawalakhel Jatra, linked to offerings of rice.

There is a legend that the then king Narendradev started the Rato Machhindranath Jatra in memory of this event. Since then, this Jatra has been celebrated every year with wishes for harmony, prosperity and good rains. Photos: Manoj Ratna Shahi/TRN