The vibrant festive season began on September 17 in Nepal, with tens of thousands of devotees gathering in Kathmandu to commemorate the treasured tradition of the Indra Jatra festival. Among the rituals were a young girl adorned as a living godless carried on a chariot, families gathered at shrines to light incense and pray for the deceased, and men dancing to the rhythm of traditional music and drums dressed in colourful masks and costumes symbolising Hindu deities. This sacred festival attracted locals and tourists to Kathmandu’s historic streets.
Kumari, a young girl who is thought to be a living embodiment of the goddess Taleju, is a major figure in the Indra Jatra festival. During the festival, Kumari is worshipped by Hindus and Buddhists and has a special place in the Nepalese culture. On September 17, she left her royal temple and was brought through Kathmandu’s heart in a wooden chariot, surrounded by cheering devotees who awaited her blessing. According to reports, Nepal’s President Ram Chandra Poudel attended the occasion, along with other authorities and diplomats, emphasising Kumari’s cultural and spiritual significance in society.
Indra Jatra Festival: What Is This Festival About
The Indra Jatra festival, one of Nepal’s oldest cultural traditions, commemorates the conclusion of the monsoon season and the completion of rice farming, ushering in autumn. It is mostly observed by Kathmandu’s indigenous people, the Newar and is a tribute to Indra, the Hindu god of rain. The festival is also known for celebrating deities and demons, reflecting the rich mythology woven into the local culture.
The performance of masked dancers representing various Hindu gods and spirits is one of the festival’s most intriguing factors. Depending on the intensity of their moves, these dancers might inspire awe, elicit fear, or entertain the hundreds of people who line the capital’s small streets.
The sacred Indra Jatra marks the start of Nepal’s festival season. Following this celebration, the country will prepare for Dasain, Nepal’s most important festival, as well as Tihar, better known as Diwali, the festival of lights, which occurs in November.
As the season progresses, the streets of Kathmandu will continue to reverberate with music, dance, and a vibrant spirit of celebration, highlighting Nepal’s rich cultural heritage.
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