Preparations for Indra Jatra festival come to an end (photos)
The Festival commences with the installation of a wooden log at Hanuman Dhoka Palace on the morning of Sept 26.
KATHMANDU: Preparations for Indra Jatra celebrated every year in Kathmandu valley have been completed.
Works such as painting, preparing chariots, and making ropes in Basantapur Durbar Square have been completed
On Tuesday, the Indra Jatra starts formally in the valley after raising the Ya Sin (Indradhvaja Utthan).
The Festival commences with the installation of a wooden log at Hanuman Dhoka Palace on the morning of Sept 26.
Besides Kathmandu, the festival is also observed in Lalitpur, Bhaktapur, Dulikhel, and Dolakha among other locations.
Indra Jatra, believed to have its origins in the 10th century during the rule of Gunakama Deva, marked the commencement of cultural traditions like the Lakhey dance and Pulu Kishi Pyakhan dance.
The highlight of the festival remains the chariot procession featuring the living deities—Ganesh, Kumari, and Bhairav.
The festival holds cultural, religious, and social significance, uniting people of all castes among the Newari community and beyond.
The story of Indra Jatra’s origin varies according to different beliefs. Some view it as an expression of gratitude to Indra for rain, while others see it as a tribute to Lord Bhairav for vanquishing evil.
Nevertheless, the celebration embodies themes of gratitude, virtue, and transformation.
Additionally, the festival boasts other remarkable events, including the processions of Dangi, Indra’s mother, Pulukisi, and Majipa Lakhey.
The festival will conclude on Oct 2.
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