Indra Jatra Festival

The festival of Indra Jatra is named after the Lord Indra, King of Heaven. This festival is celebrated by both the Buddhists and Hindus in the month of September in Nepal. On this day, the people worship the Lord Indra, to be grateful to him, who has blessed the valley. This festival is celebrated for eight days in the Durbar Square in Kathmandu with singing, mask dancing and rejoicing. On the first day, the Indra's dhwaj or flag is erected. It is said that many centuries ago, Indra's mother needed specially scented flowers but could not find them in heaven's gardens. Indra discovered parijat flowers in the Kathmandu Valley and tried to steal them for his mother. He was caught and imprisoned by the people of the valley. When Indra's mother came searching for him the people were punished for what they had done. As a result, they released Indra and dedicated one of the most colorful festivals of Nepal to him to appease his anger. On this day, the masks and statues representing Vishnu, Bhairab, and Shiva are shown to the public, and the Goddess Kumari witnesses the special occasion from her chariot. The chariot of the Living Goddess Kumari is taken through the main streets of Kathmandu. On the first day, the King of Nepal also pays homage to Goddess Kumari. The people gather at the streets of Kathmandu valley to enjoy the festival.