KATHMANDU, Sept 7: Indra Jatra has formally started with the erection of lingo (sacred wooden pole) at Hanumandhoka in Basantapur Durbar Square on Wednesday.
According to the long-held tradition, the Indra Jatra starts properly after the lingo at Hanuman Dhoka is erected. Minister of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Jeevan Ram Shrestha and Deputy Mayor of Kathmandu Metropolitan City Sunita Dangol were present at the inauguration of Indra Jatra.
In Pictures: Indra Jatra commences with the erection of lingo a...
During Indra Jatra, all the deities related to Indra Jatra are also brought out for public display.
Indrajatra is a festival traditionally celebrated by the Newars in Lalitpur, Bhaktapur, Dhulikhel, Dolakha and other places along with Kathmandu by worshiping Indra, the god of rain.
Indra Jatra is one of the most important festivals celebrated in Kathmandu. The main function of the Intra Jatra is the installation of the lingo (flag).
Hanumandhoka Durbar area, which is adorned with many monasteries and temples built in the 12th to 18th centuries, is the origin of this Jatra. Starting from Indradhvajotthan on the day of Bhadra Shuklapaksha Yalathwa Duwadashi, this Jatra is completed with various dances, songs and chariot processions for eight days.
