RATO MACCHENDRANATH TEMPLE - NEPAL
The Rato (Red) Macchendranath Temple locates in South Tabahal. The Rato
Macchendranath is the god of rain, and is considered another form of Shiva by Hindus, while Buddhists believe
the deity to be a manifestation of Avalokiteshwara.
Each year, following the Nepali New Year, a huge wooden chariot wheels the image of the Red
Macchendranath around Patan City in a series of complex celebrations.
The King is present on this particular occasion during
which a jewel-bedecked bhoto (waist-jacket) of the Red Macchendranath is displayed to the public marking the
end of the festival.
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