As the vibrant festival of Tihar approaches, the potters of Bhaktapur are hard at work, shaping mud clay into pots and diyos (traditional oil lamps). These handmade diyos play a significant role in the festival, symbolizing devotion to Goddess Laxmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. Lighting diyos is a key tradition during the celebration, believed to invite blessings and good fortune into homes.

Here are some photos from the lens of the Post’s photojournalist Safal Prakash Shrestha, these images reflect the dedication and artistry of the potters as they prepare for one of the most cherished festivals in Nepal.