Indra Jatra
Indra jatra is a festival celebrated by Newar community of Kathmandu, Nepal.
This festival was started by Lichhavi king Gunkamadev in Kaligat Sambat 3822.
The mythology of Indra jatra is related to Hindu god king of heaven, Indra. The festival begins with the carnival-like erection of Yosin, a ceremonial pole, accompanied by the rare display of the deity Aakash Bhairab, represented by a massive mask spouting beer and liquor. Households throughout Kathmandu display images and sculptures of Indra and Bhairab only at this time of year. Finally, the Kumari, or virgin goddess (living goddess), leaves the seclusion of her temple in a palanquin and leads a procession through the streets of Kathmandu to thank Indra the rain god.
Kathmandu Durbar Square, Kathmandu, Nepal.
Read MoreThis festival was started by Lichhavi king Gunkamadev in Kaligat Sambat 3822.
The mythology of Indra jatra is related to Hindu god king of heaven, Indra. The festival begins with the carnival-like erection of Yosin, a ceremonial pole, accompanied by the rare display of the deity Aakash Bhairab, represented by a massive mask spouting beer and liquor. Households throughout Kathmandu display images and sculptures of Indra and Bhairab only at this time of year. Finally, the Kumari, or virgin goddess (living goddess), leaves the seclusion of her temple in a palanquin and leads a procession through the streets of Kathmandu to thank Indra the rain god.
Kathmandu Durbar Square, Kathmandu, Nepal.