Phulpati brought to temples across the country

By Our Correspondents, Nepalgunj/Rajbiraj/Mugu/Kalikot, Oct. 18: Phulpati, a collection of sacred leaves, plants and fruits brought into homes and temples as part of Dashain rituals, was ceremonially brought to prominent temples in several districts of western Nepal and Madhes on Saturday, the seventh day of the festival.

At the famous Bageshwori Temple in Nepalgunj, Banke, Phulpati was brought in with traditional music and celebrations, accompanied by salutes from the Nepal Army, Nepal Police and Armed Police Force. Banana plants, bel leaves, pomegranates, rice stalks, ashoka leaves, ginger shoots and fruits were brought into the temple as auspicious offerings.

Special prayers were performed on the occasion, adding to the festive atmosphere at the temple. Chief priest Chandranath Yogi said the tradition of bringing Phulpati to the temple on Saptami, the seventh day of Dashain, had been followed every year.

The ceremony was attended by the commander of the Nepal Army's Bajradal Battalion, Banke Chief District Officer Dil Kumar Tamang, Superintendent of Police Angur GC, Armed Police Force Superintendent of Police Bhim Bahadur Chand and other prominent local figures. Members of the public also brought Phulpati into their homes, said Krishna Prasad Shrestha, coordinator of the Nepalgunj Civil Society.