We were warned of the masses of people, explained of the significance of the festival and told to be careful once the mob of Nepali devotees follow the chariot on its route to the ancient part of the city, but honestly nothing could have prepared us for this. Witnessing this festival was something Joost and I did not expect (check out the video on my facebook site). Randy of course had seen this last year and was ever so excited to see this yet again :-)
The White ("Seto") Machhendranath (the embodiment of the God of compassion) begins its journey with its removal from its temple in Ason Tole, in Hanuman Dhoka. The deity is placed on what could only be described as a rickety, creaky, towering wooden chariot (safety hazard in short). The huge wooden structure/chariot was supported by 4 equally large wooden wheels. The tower of this chariot looks like a Christmas tree (evergreen) - we were politely waiting for the Christmas lights to come on, although they never did and it was us justing wanting to understand and make sense of this festival by likening it to something the western world understands. But the young men clinging to the top of the chariot did throw candy!
The crowds turn out in masses, I don't thing I have ever seen so many devotees in one place, let alone follow a chariot around the city as it makes it way to the ancient city. Enjoy the pictures :-)
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