Kathmandu — Kathmandu came alive with colour, music, masked dances and centuries-old rituals as the week-long Indra Jatra festival brought together thousands of devotees, visitors and cultural enthusiasts in the historic heart of the capital on Friday.
The festival, one of Kathmandu Valley’s most important traditional celebrations, drew the participation of President Ram Chandra Paudel, ministers, senior government officials, international delegates and other dignitaries, who joined devotees and local communities in witnessing the vibrant festivities. Acting Mayor of Kathmandu Metropolitan City welcomed the guests.
The central attraction of the festival was the ceremonial procession of the chariots of Kumari, the Living Goddess, along with Ganesh and Bhairav through the historic streets of Kathmandu. The magnificent chariots, accompanied by traditional music and large crowds, turned the old city into a living stage of Newar heritage.
The festival also featured the spectacular performances of Lakhe, the elephant-masked Pulukisi, and Sawabhaku, Aakash Bhairav of Halchok adding colour, movement and theatrical energy to the celebrations. Traditional drums, cymbals, masked dancers and ritual performances continued to animate Kathmandu’s historic squares and neighbourhoods.
Indra Jatra, locally known as Yenya, is celebrated during the Newar festival season to honour Indra, the Hindu god of rain, while also bringing together a rich tapestry of religious rituals, mythology and community traditions.
From the erection of the Yosin (lingo) at Hanuman Dhoka to chariot processions, masked dances, music and ceremonial rituals, the festival transforms the historic centre of Kathmandu into a vibrant celebration of living heritage.
The annual festival not only preserves Kathmandu Valley’s centuries-old cultural traditions but also provides an opportunity for domestic and international visitors to experience Nepal’s diverse cultural heritage firsthand.
Photo: Sunil Sharma
