Indrajatra festival observations commenced today with the ceremonial erection of a sacred pole, known as the “Indra dwaja,” in front of Hanumandhoka at Basantapur.
Indrajatra, also called Yenya Punhi, by the Newar community, and is celebrated for eight days. The festival is marked by religious rituals, chariot processions, and traditional dances dedicated to Indra, the god of rain and prosperity. This event attracts thousands of people who participate in the festivities across the valley.
While the celebrations primarily take place in Kathmandu, neighboring districts like Lalitpur, Bhaktapur, Dhulikhel, and Dolakha also observe the festival. The highlight of the festival is set for Tuesday, September 17, when grand processions will carry the chariots of Ganesha, Bhairav, and the living goddess Kumari through the streets of Kathmandu. The President and other high-level dignitaries will attend the special ceremony at Basantapur Durbar Square to witness the event.
To mark the occasion, the federal government has announced a public holiday in the Kathmandu Valley on Tuesday.
(With inputs via RSS)