Nepalese pay respects at festival for departed souls - in pictures

Thousands of families gather at temples to light lanterns and present food offerings in memory of deceased family members

Nepalese devotees light oil lamps at the Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu. AFP

The oil lamps are released in memory of deceased family members during the Balachaturdashi festival at Pashupati temple in Kathmandu. EPA

Thousands of people from all over the country have gathered at the Pasupati temple to light the oil lamps at the Bagmati river. EPA

The following morning family members will spread Satabij, seven kinds of seeds - paddy, barley, sesame, wheat, gram, maize and finger millet, around the temple premises. EPA

The seeds are sown with the belief that the departed souls receive salvation. AFP

The ritual is held in memory of deceased family members. AFP

Devotees are silhouetted as they walk along the bridge at Pashupatinath Temple. Reuters

Oil lamps along with various offerings offered by the devotees. Reuters

A Nepalese family lights oil lamps. AP Photo

A Nepalese priest performs rituals. AP Photo

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