Editorial photo #12839669 Religion and Belief
Thecho Navadurga Dance During Last Day Of Dashain Festival In Nepal
Masked dancers representing deities of the Thecho Navadurga perform the annual ritual dance at Mulchowk, Patan Durbar Square, in Lalitpur, Nepal, on October 7, 2025. The centuries-old Thecho Navadurga Naach, one of the most sacred Newar traditions, is performed twice a year during Vijaya Dashami and Kojagrat Purnima. Devotees carry the main goddess (Mu Dyah) and other deities in full ritual attire -- masks, ornaments, and sacred khukuris -- from the Thecho temple to the historic royal courtyard amid rhythmic beats and devotional hymns, showcasing Newar faith and cultural heritage. (Photo by Safal Prakash Shrestha/NurPhoto)
