We down to the final hours in Nepal. I've been just strolling the lanes and squares trying to absorb as much of the atmosphere as possible before I leave. Random observations:
A crowd of people in Durbar square, at the figure of Black Bhairab, Shiva in his most fearsome form, with 6 arms, a garland of skulls and trampling a corpse (symbolizing human ignorance). Legend is that telling a lie while standing in front of the Black Bhairab will result in instant death. It was used in trial by ordeal at one time. This morning, worshippers were making their morning offerings and prayers, lighting prayer candles. I saw no instant deaths.
A woman in the square with a prostrate calf, one obviously well past its last legs, twitching and letting out the occasional pitiful moo. Not sure where this was headed for anyone other than the calf.
People buying corn to feed the pigeons.
Seen walking down Freak Street, one fellow who really looked like he belonged there.
My last plate of steamed veg momos. A kind shopkeeper let me in early, before opening time, to sip beer and wait until the momos were ready.
Shopkeepers sweeping their steps and washing down the entrance to their establishment. General cleanliness is certainly better now than it was when we first arrived. Probably a lack of religious festivals that can bring almost everything to a halt seems to have helped.
A political march complete with drums and cymbals. This party using the umbrella symbol.
Another party with supporters crowding a bus and a noisy band on top, seated on the luggage rack.
People wading in the river shoveling up the muck from the bottom, amongst the other floating garbage.
Today seemed quiet as I wandered around. Fewer vehicles, fewer people meandering the lanes of Thamel. With a couple of t-shirts and a coffee cup, I've finished my shopping. Now it's down to packing and waiting.
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