Editorial photo #13555224 Religion and Belief
Rato Machhindranath Idol Painting Begins In Lalitpur, Nepal
A priest applies the first touches of clay to the idol of Rato Machhindranath at Tabahal Machhindranath Temple in Lalitpur, Nepal, on April 10, 2026, as preparations for the annual Rato Machhindranath Jatra continue. The clay application marks the initial phase of idol preparation, after which the coloring process will follow. Meanwhile, traditional craftsmen assemble the towering wooden chariot at Pulchowk, which will carry the deity through various neighborhoods during the month-long procession. (Photo by Safal Prakash Shrestha/NurPhoto)
