The month-long religious fete observed from the full moon day of Poush to Magh (mid-January to mid-February) concluded here on Friday.

The holy fair attracts thousands of devotees every year at the banks of Sali River in Sankhu, a traditionally rich Newar village 12 kms east of Kathmandu.

Pertaining to the belief that one’s wishes would be granted as mentioned in the religious texts of Swasthani, people from different places of the country, especially Kathmandu Valley, pay homage to the deity.

The text of Swasthani Mahatmya is recited in every Nepali Hindu home during the month. Apart from daily visitors at the festivity, there are also religious pilgrims who actually join the processions of Madhav Narayan. These devotees remain on fast for the entire month and have to abide by strict disciplinary rules and regulations. 

The month-long festivity would be given a grand ending this evening with Ashmir Mahayagya. Before that, the deity goes through all rites from birth to death as per Newar customs.

As on the banks of the Sali River in Sankhu of Kathmandu today, other holy rivers across the country are also visited by devotees in the same manner, though not to the same extent, to mark the conclusion of Swasthani Brata.