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September 7, 2025The Indra Jatra festival has commenced in the Kathmandu Valley, bringing with it an air of excitement, reverence, and cultural vibrancy. Recognized as the biggest and most significant festival of the valley, it began on Saturday with the ceremonial worship of Indra, the King of Heaven and the God of rains. This centuries-old celebration carries immense religious, social, and cultural value, uniting communities across Nepal in devotion and festivity.The opening day witnessed the participation of Nepal’s top leaders and dignitaries, including President Ramchandra Paudel, Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli, and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, who gathered at Basantapur to observe the sacred rituals. Their presence highlighted the importance of Indra Jatra not only as a traditional celebration but also as a national event symbolizing unity, prosperity, and respect for heritage.Advertisement Religious Worship and Royal ChariotsAt the heart of the festival is the worship of Indra, honored as the divine provider of rain essential for good harvests. President Paudel attended a special ceremony where he worshipped the living goddess Kumari and received her blessings, in keeping with traditions that date back centuries. The divine presence of Kumari, accompanied by the deities Bhairav and Ganesh, was honored as their chariots were drawn through Hanumandhoka, Basantapur, and surrounding areas. These chariot processions, accompanied by music and dance, symbolized the continuation of ancient rituals that Kathmandu has preserved through generations.The Eight-Day Celebration and Ritual PreparationsThe festival extends over eight days, beginning annually on Bhadra Shukla Chaturdashi as per the lunar calendar. Ritual preparations begin days earlier, with one of the most significant acts being the erection of the Indradhwoja, a tall wooden pole adorned with colorful flags, at Hanumandhoka. This ceremonial pole, raised two days before the festival, represents divine authority and the connection between the heavens and the earth. Its presence becomes the spiritual anchor around which many of the festival’s cultural performances unfold.Yenya Punhi: A Day of Feasting and C …
