Nepal is internationally recognised for its unique culture. Kathmandu, its Capital and a gateway to most international visitors, is renowned as ‘city of temples’ and Jatras. Here people can come across with unique festivals all through the year.

One of its unique festivals has concluded at Khokana in Lalitipur district on Monday. The festival known as ‘Depukhu’ or Deopokhari festival is celebrated by people from Newar community of Khokana village in August every year.

As part of the tradition, a man jumps into the pond carrying a young female goat and later others join in to kill it underneath the water by biting and reaping apart with their bare hands.

Around 30 youths participated during this year’s show held today. A youth of Gabu recovered the goat and was declared the winner.

However, the animal right activists have been opposing the festival citing it as barbaric that causes suffering to innocent animal. However, Khokana Festival Committee President Shyam Krishna Maharjan said the tradition has been around for more than 300 years and should be continued.

(Text and Photo by Hemanta Shrestha)