In Nepal, the New year is being celebrated across the country. The New Year of 2068 Bikram Sambat falls today and is marked with special functions and gaiety as people visit temples and special feasts at home. In Kathmandu Valley, the New Year celebrations are marked by the Bisket Jatra festival. A tall wooden ceremonial pole is erected in the town square to commemorate the great battle of Mahabharat with the pole symbolizing victory. In Bhaktapur a chariot carrying the images of Lord Bhairab and Badra are pulled through the city centre as tug of war among neighbourhoods take place. The winners are considered blessed with good fortune for the coming year. The festival goes on for nine days which started on Sunday.