Celebration of Indra Jatra 2024

Indra Jatra, also called Yenya, is one of the most significant and vibrant festivals celebrated in Kathmandu, Nepal. It is held annually in September, coinciding with the end of the monsoon season, and honours Lord Indra, the Hindu god of rain and king of heaven. The festival is a celebration of gratitude for the rains that sustain agriculture, which is crucial to the livelihoods of many in Nepal. Indra Jatra lasts for eight days and is marked by elaborate ceremonies, cultural performances, and religious processions.

The festival begins with the erection of a ceremonial pole, known as the Yosin or Linga, in Kathmandu Durbar Square. This pole represents a similar flag pole given to Lord Indra by the god Vishnu. The raising of the pole is accompanied by masked dances and the Pulu Kisi dance, which reenact scenes from the legend of Indra’s capture by the people of Kathmandu, who mistook him for a thief. According to the myth, Indra, disguised as a farmer, descended to earth in search of a sacred flower for his mother, Basundhara. When he was caught plucking the flowers, he was put on display in the town square until his mother revealed his true identity, after which he was released.

The highlight of Indra Jatra is the chariot procession, where the living goddess Kumari, along with the gods Ganesh and Bhairav, are paraded through the ancient streets of Kathmandu in lavishly decorated chariots. Thousands of people gather to witness this spectacular event, accompanied by traditional music, dance performances, and masked dancers representing deities and demons. The masks are intricate, often depicting Bhairav, an incarnation of Lord Shiva, and other mythical figures.

Another important aspect of Indra Jatra is the display of the head of the Sweta Bhairav, a massive mask of the fierce god, which is unveiled only during this time. The mask is believed to protect the city and the living goddess Kumari during her procession.

Key Highlights of Indra Jatra:

• Chariot Procession of Kumari: One of the most significant events is the chariot procession of the Living Goddess, Kumari. She is paraded through the streets in an intricately adorned chariot accompanied by chariots carrying deities Ganesh and Bhairav. This procession is a central attraction, drawing large crowds who come to pay their respects.
• Masked Dances: The festival includes various traditional dances performed by participants wearing elaborate masks. The Lakhey dance, featuring demon masks, is particularly popular and performed nightly throughout the festival. Other notable dances include Mahakali Pykhan and Sawa Bakhhu, which depict local myths and folklore.
• Rituals and Offerings: The festival begins with rituals to honour deceased family members, where families light butter lamps (Mata Biye) to remember their loved ones. The ceremonial raising of a wooden pole (Linga) at Kathmandu Durbar Square marks the official start of the festivities.
• Cultural Displays: Each evening, the streets are illuminated with oil lamps, and various tableaux depicting Hindu deities are displayed. The festival also features reenactments of mythological stories associated with Lord Indra’s descent to Earth.
• Community Spirit: Indra Jatra fosters a sense of unity among participants, as both Hindus and Buddhists come together to celebrate. It symbolizes gratitude for bountiful harvests and reflects the communal spirit of Kathmandu’s residents

Throughout the festival, devotees visit various shrines and temples, offering prayers and remembering their deceased loved ones. On the first day of Kumari Jatra, families gather to light butter lamps in honour of their departed relatives.

Indra Jatra is a celebration of unity, faith, and cultural heritage for the people of Kathmandu. It showcases the rich tapestry of Nepalese mythology, art, and tradition, making it a must-see event for anyone visiting Nepal during the festival season