One of the ancient and sacred traditions of the Newar community, the Thecho Navadurga Dance, was performed at the Moolchowk courtyard of Patan Durbar Square. The ritual procession began from the goddess’s house in Thecho, where devotees dressed as deities (Devgan) in traditional attire and masks carried the main goddess (Mu Dya:), masks, ornaments, and ritual items to the historic Moolchowk.
This dance is also performed on Vijaya Dashami (Tika Day) during the Dashain festival. On this occasion, the Navadurga troupe follows the tradition of visiting Manmaneshwori Devi, who is also worshipped as Taleju.
The centuries-old ritual is an integral part of the Dashain festival and is performed twice every year — on Vijaya Dashami and Kojagrat Purnima.
Before the performance, 34 participants, including 11 Devgan, 3 Naik (religious leaders), and other Guthiyaar members, conducted worship rituals at the goddess’s residence in Thecho.
