What is bhote jatra?

Bhote Jatra is a traditional festival celebrated by the Newar community in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal, particularly in the town of Bhaktapur. The festival honors the goddess Bhadrakali and involves a dramatic procession, featuring the pulling of a massive chariot that carries a statue of the goddess. It also includes vibrant music, dance, and various cultural rituals, symbolizing the community's rich heritage and devotion. Bhote Jatra usually takes place in the month of March or April, coinciding with the Nepali New Year.