Shikali Festival Celebrated By People Of Khokana, Near Katmandu

Nepalese priests smoke as they get ready for the Shikali festival in Khokana, outskirts of Katmandu, Nepal, Sunday, Oct. 21, 2012. Devotees sacrifice animals hoping to get the blessing of deities during this festival.

Nepal’s Newar community dancer wearing mask of a deity dances during Shikali festival in Khokana, outskirts of Katmandu, Nepal, Sunday, Oct. 21, 2012.

Nepal’s Newar community members in traditional attire participate in the Shikali festival in Khokana, outskirts of Katmandu, Nepal, Sunday, Oct. 21, 2012. <AP Photo/Niranjan Shrestha>