Devotees Flock to Bhimsen Temple in Bhaktapur for Phagu Poornima

Devotees have gathered in large numbers at the Bhimsen Temple in Bhaktapur to mark the occasion of Phagu Poornima. The festival sees worshippers visiting the Bhimsen Temple in Ardash, Yachhen Bhimsen Temple in Yachhen, and Tachpal Bhimsen Temple in Dattatray to offer prayers and seek blessings.

According to religious belief, worshipping Bhimsen on Phagu Poornima brings prosperity and success in business endeavors. The festival is celebrated with special rituals, including prayers to the deity and the consumption of samaya baji, a traditional Newari delicacy.

Locally known as Bhising Pooja, the celebration is vibrant with Newari women dressed in traditional hakupatasi, worshipping Bhimsen, enjoying festive feasts, and parading through the streets to mark the festival of colors.

Later in the evening, a significant ritual takes place where a large wooden linga (symbolizing male energy), displayed at the Tachpal Bhimsen Temple in Dattatray, is carried through the city. It is washed in the river at the Brahmayani Temple before being returned to the temple, marking the conclusion of this year’s Phagu festival.