Thousands of devotees gathered at Matatirtha Kunda in ward 6 of Chandragiri Municipality on Sunday to mark Mata Tirtha Aunsi, a festival honouring mothers.

Pilgrims took holy baths in the pond and made offerings to pray for the ‘liberation of their mothers’ souls’. Many believe the ritual frees them from maternal debt.

Mata Tirtha Aunsi falls on the new moon day of Baisakh under the lunar calendar. The annual event draws large crowds to the sacred pond southwest of Kathmandu.

Families celebrate living mothers with gifts and food, while those whose mothers have passed away offer prayers and donations to the needy in their memory.

Here are some photos taken at the sacred pond by the Post photojournalist Deepak KC.