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

KATHMANDU: Indra Jatra, known as Yenya in Nepal Bhasa, one of the biggest festivals celebrated by the denizens of Kathmandu formally ends today.

Masked dancers perform a traditional dance during Indra Jatra festival in Hanumandhoka, Kathmandu,  on Thursday, September 12, 2019. Photo: Skanda Gautam/THT
Masked dancers perform a traditional dance during Indra Jatra festival in Hanumandhoka, Kathmandu, on Thursday, September 12, 2019. Photo: Skanda Gautam/THT

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.