Lalitpur, Oct. 16 -- The "Devgans" (Divine hosts) clad in traditional attire and masks take flights on air as they tour around the temple of "Shikali", continuing the age-old tradition which is celebrated in Khokana as a substitute for the fortnightly festival of Dashain in the Kathmandu Valley.

The medieval Newa heritage village in the Southern Kathmandu Valley, Khokana, observes Shikali Jatra for 5 days, dedicated to the goddess "Shikali", who is also known as "Ajima" or Mother Goddess. Gods and goddesses in human form take flight as they tour around the Shikali temple, which is located on a grassy hill just outside the village.

On the final day, the fair started with Goddess Rudrayani or Shikali being carried in a wooden chariot thro...