Bhaktapur — Devotees in Bhaktapur are marking Bhadra Krishna Trayodashi by celebrating the Panchadan festival with worship dedicated to Deepankar Buddha. In recent years, the festival has also been embraced by the wider Newar community, turning it into a shared cultural tradition.
As part of the celebration, five revered images of Deepankar Buddha are placed for worship at Suryamadhi Dabali. They include the principal image from Prashannashil Mahavihar in Kwathando, along with images from Chaturbrahma Mahavihar in Sakotha, Mangaldharma Dip Mahavihar in Jhauro Bahi, Jayakirti Mahavihar in Thathuwahi Itachhen, and Bauddha Samakrit Vihar in Kuthuwahi near the Bhaktapur Minibus Park.
The rituals begin at Adipadma Mahavihar, where the chief priest formally opens the festival. The five images are then carried in a citywide procession accompanied by traditional music, hymns, and chants. The procession winding through Bhaktapur’s historic streets is considered one of the day’s main highlights.
Central to the festival is the offering of five types of alms—grains, fruits, cereals, clothing, and other essentials. Devotees believe that such acts of giving not only bring spiritual merit but also help foster harmony and mutual respect within society.
For Bhaktapur, Panchadan is more than a religious observance. It represents community unity, cultural pride, and the collective spirit of celebration.
