Holi celebration in Bhaktapur, which began on Friday with the arrival of Fagun Shukla Ashtami, is marked by unique rituals that distinguish the city’s festivities from the usual colour-throwing tradition seen across Nepal.

The highlight of Bhaktapur’s celebration takes place at the Bhimsen Temple, where a blend of traditional Newari culture and the symbolic worship of Bhimsen and Draupadi’s representations is central to the festivities. For centuries, locals have observed this distinct version of Holi.

From Fagun Shukla Ashtami to the full moon, the Bhimsen Guthi’s priestly figures, known as Gajyu, sing Newa folk songs during the Holi celebrations, marking the festival as a symbol of love and the arrival of spring. The rituals, performed on the Bhimsen Temple and the Dattatreya Temple premises, are an expression of devotion as well as celebration of the season.

On the first day, two people carry the wooden Bhimsen linga, travelling through the streets of Bhaktapur to Dattatreya Temple, where a ceremonial prayer is held. This act, called Chir Swayagu, signifies the beginning of the Holi festival in Bhaktapur. Devotees gather to offer prayers and donations to the Bhimsen linga for peace and prosperity. Local tradition holds that worshiping the Bhimsen linga brings blessings to the home.

The celebration peaks on Phagu Purnima, when the Bhimsen linga is carried around Bhaktapur before being returned to the Bhimsen Temple, where the week-long festival culminates. The ritual remains a vital part of Bhaktapur’s cultural identity, with increasing numbers of visitors participating each year.

Bhaktapur’s Holi offers rich cultural dynamics to the widely celebrated festival, depicting the historic city’s traditions.