The annual Swasthani Brata Katha commenced on January 31. This festival, based on the holy Hindu book Skandapuran,  attracts devotees from across the country to the Sali river—a hub for the festival—in Sankhu, 17km from the Capital. 

During the festival, devotees fast in the name of Goddess Swasthani, an act they believe will pay itself back with good karma. The month-long celebrations also sees devotees 

reciting stories from the revered book, Swasthani. 

As the festival draws near, Sali Nadi attracts throngs of devotees who come to take a dip in the sacred waters and begin reading the Shree Swasthani Brata Katha. Devotees also    descend down to the Manohara River in Sankhu, for holy baths across the duration of this month as well.

Those observing the fast recite the Shree Swasthani Brata Katha, which highlights the miracles of the goddess Swasthani, in order to receive her blessings. The scripture also contains tales about Lord Shiva, Goddess Parbati and others. Swasthani Brata Katha is a series of stories narrated by Lord Kumar to Agasthya Muni. Kumar is the elder son of Lord 

Shiva and Goddess Parvati, and his tales chronicles  lessons devotees can learn through  Lord Shiva. 

That being said, like most festivals and celebrations in Nepal, the manner in which devotees celebrate this festival varies as well; what is essential for one family is often trifling for others, but therein lies the beauty of Nepali festivals.

This album chronicles the textures of this venerated festival through glimpses of celebrations from settlements in Sankhu, Panauti and Bhaktapur.