Indra Jatra is a gala festival celebrated in the capital city of Kathmandu. This is a festival of the Hindus and the Buddhists and continues for a period of seven days. The festival celebrations takes place around Hanuman dhoka while the events are held on the Basantapur Durbar Square in Kathmandu, Nepal. Kathmandu is crowded with visitors coming from all corners of Nepal.
Indra Jatra Legends
According to a myth, Indra was looking for flowers in the Kathmandu valley. But while wandering there, he became captivated in the hands of the people residing in the valley. Dagini, Indra's mother rescued her son by promising the capturers the pleasure of heaven. This legend is symbolized with the onset of the fine season after the rainy showers. According to others, the festival is celebrated in the honor of Bahirab, who is Shiva's manifestation and is believed to destroy evil.
Indra Jatra Celebrations
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Indra Jatra, named after God Indra, is a colorful festival of dance, song and merriment. Indra is considered to be the rain god. The celebrations begin in the end of September with the oncoming of the autumn season just after monsoon. The festival highlights traditional classical dances in various forms and styles. Local people are seen to rejoice all around the Hanuman Dhoka courtyard. There are masked dancers in the traditional outfit dancing in the festive mood. Beer flows from the Bahirab statue, which is remarkable to look at.
Indra Jatra Rituals
On the first day of the festival, a long pole made of wood is set up in front of the Royal Palace located in Hanuman Dhoka to appease Lord Indra. The third day marks the procession of girl goddess called Kumari. The people of Kathmandu consider her to be an embodiment of "Taleju" goddess. She travels to the royal place on a beautifully decorated chariot. The King of Nepal also worships this Kumari goddess during the Indra Jatra festival. The final day of the festival marks the lowering of the erected pole along with animal sacrifice, religious ceremonies and different rituals performed.
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