KATHMANDU, SEPTEMBER 17
President Ramchandra Paudel visited Hanuman Dhoka at Basantapur Durbar Square in Kathmandu to attend the cultural and historical Indra Jatra festival today.
On the occasion, President Paudel walked from Juddha Salik to Gaddhibaithak, Hanumandhoka, where he participated in the Indra Jatra festivities. The chariots of Ganesh, Bhairab, and Kumari commenced once the President arrived and made offerings to the deities.
Other dignitaries in attendance included Vice President Ramsahay Prasad Yadav, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, Chief Justice Bishwambhar Prasad Shrestha, Speaker Devraj Ghimire, National Assembly Chair Narayan Dahal, Deputy Prime Ministers Prakash Man Singh and Bishnu Prasad Poudel, Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation Badri Prasad Pandey, along with ministers, lawmakers, provincial assembly members, diplomats, and local representatives.
Tuesday marked the main celebration of Indra Jatra, which commenced with cultural rituals on Sunday, in accordance with the lunar calendar. The chariot procession will continue in Mathillo Tole on Wednesday.
On September 21, women will lead the chariot procession for Nanicha Yatra, and President Paudel will receive Tika and Prasad from Goddess Kumari. Tradition dictates that the Head of State exchanges the khadga (sword) with Goddess Kumari on this day.
Indra Jatra will conclude on September 21 with the lowering of the Indradhowj, accompanied by cultural performances such as the Lakhe Naach, Mahakali Naach, and Pulukisi Naach, which are integral to the grand celebration of Indra Jatra, particularly within the Newari community of the Kathmandu Valley.
