KATHMANDU, Sept. 23: The formal events of the Indra Jatra festival began in Kathmandu on Wednesday with the traditional ‘Yansi Thanegu (Indradhwajotthan)’ rituals performed at an auspicious hour of 7:47 am.
A sacred wooden pole, known as Yansi, was erected in front of Kalbhairav near the Hanumandhoka Kageshwori Temple as part of the ritual. Members of the Manandhar community from Nhyas Naya and Chaswad toles are traditionally required to be present for the ceremony.
Indra Jatra Management Committee Chairperson Gautam Shakya said a Dipyankha (Goddess dance) was also performed on the occasion.
Saving Tansen's Ropai Jatra
Acting Kathmandu Metropolitan City Mayor Sunita Dangol, people’s representatives, locals and devotees attended the Indradhwajotthan ceremony.
The main chariot procession of Indra Jatra will begin on September 25.
Traditionally associated with the celebration of victory over enemies, the eight-day festival features traditional dances, chariot processions and the worship of deities.
The chariots of Kumari, Ganesh and Bhairav have been pulled by local women for the past 14 years.
On the final day of the festival, the President traditionally receives tika from Kumari, the living goddess.
