Kathmandu, August 4
Indra Jatra has begun from Basantapur Durbar Square. In front of Hanumandhoka, the festival commenced with the religious installation of a ceremonial pole (lingo) adorned with the Indradhwaja (Indra’s banner).
According to tradition, the festival starts on the day of Bhadra Shukla Dwadashi with the raising of the lingo. It is then celebrated for eight days with various dances, chariot processions, and worship of deities.
On this occasion, cultural heritage sites around Durbar Square, including Kashthamandap, Kumari Ghar, and the Shiva-Parvati Temple, have been freshly painted and decorated with red flags.
The lingo raised on Bhadra Shukla Dwadashi is also called “Indradhwajotthaan.” At its base, worship of Bhairav is performed.
Indra Jatra is observed as a festival celebrating victory after the defeat of enemies. It is also regarded as a festival of gaining strength by worshipping the Indradhwaja and then displaying that power.
As part of the tradition, during the festival the President observes the chariot procession of Kumari, Ganesh, and Bhairav, considered living deities, at the Gaddi Baithak in Hanumandhoka.
Throughout the festival, following the erection of the Indradhwaja, various dances are performed, including Bhakku Naach, Mahakali Naach, Lakhe Naach, Dashavatar, and Pulukisi dance, which symbolizes Airawat, the elephant mount of Lord Indra.
On the eighth day after the raising of the Indradhwaja, i.e., on Ashwin Krishna Chaturthi, the ritual of “Indradhwaja Paatan,” or lowering of the ceremonial pole, is performed.
Celebrated mainly by the Newar community, this festival is observed with grandeur not only in Kathmandu but also in Lalitpur, Bhaktapur, Dhulikhel, Dolakha, and other places.
