Kathmandu

Indra Jatra: One of the biggest festivals of Kathmandu ends today

Indra Jatra: One of the biggest festivals of Kathmandu ends today

By THT Online

Devotees erect a ceremonial pole 'Indradhoj Linga' marking the first day of the eight-day long 'Indra Jatra' festival, celebrated to honour Indra, King of Heaven and God of rain and harvest, in Hanumandhoka, Kathmandu, on Friday, September 21, 2018. Photo: Skanda Gautam/THT

KATHMANDU: Indra Jatra, known as Yenya in Nepal Bhasa, one of the biggest festivals celebrated by the denizens of Kathmandu formally ends today. The eight-day long festival will conclude today after Ya-Sin (Indradhoj Linga), the ceremonial pole which was erected in Hanuman Dhoka, Kathmandu on the first day of the festival (September 10) is pulled down. This ceremony is known as Ya-Sin Kwathalegu. After pulling down of the Ya-Sin, the wooden pole will be taken to the confluence of Bagmati and Bishnumati rivers. Indra Jatra is annually celebrated by the locals of Kathmandu Valley in the honour of Indra, King of Heaven and the God of Rain and Harvest, as per the Hindu mythology. Indra Jatra represents the culture, history and legends of Kathmandu Valley. The festival is also marked by the chariot procession of Living Goddess Kumari, along with the chariots of Ganesh and Bhairav. A large crowd gathered at Basantapur to pay their reverence to the living goddess and to cheer in the festivities.