Navadurga Gana: Human Faces Behind Divine Masks in Bhaktapur
In Bhaktapur, Nepal, a group of chosen residents takes on the role of the Navadurga Gana, a revered ensemble that represents Hindu deities in a long-standing festival tradition. After a ceremonial parade, they showcase the inaugural sacred dance of the season. Since their divine masks are still unfinished, this occasion marks the sole instance when the community glimpses the human identities behind the divine figures.
Key facts
- The event takes place in Bhaktapur, Nepal.
- Selected locals form the Navadurga Gana, a sacred troupe.
- They embody Hindu deities during a centuries-old festival tradition.
- A ceremonial procession precedes the first sacred dance of the season.
- The divine masks are not yet complete during this performance.
- This is the only time the public sees the human faces behind the gods.
Entities
Locations
- Bhaktapur
- Nepal