Indra Jatra is one of the famous festivals that is celebrated in Kathmandu, Nepal. It is an 8 days long event that is meant to celebrate the god Indra and the living goddess Kumari. Most celebrate by the Newari community, it also called Yenyā Punhi in their language. This festival usually falls in September, the 12th day of bright fortnight of Bhadra (Nepali lunar month). It’s a festival that honors the gods and goddesses, while praying for their blessing for the rain and fertility. This festival was started by King Gunakamdev, who wanted to celebrate the founding of the Kathmandu Valley. Though this Jatra has been organized since the 17th century in Pratap Malla period, where the head of the state and all high officials would join the celebration to make a state festival.
The festival is started by erecting a long wooden pole at Kathmandu Durbar Square, which symbolizes Indra’s flag. The people pray for their deceased members of their family and light lamps in their honor. Kumari, the Living goddess, takes her chariot in a procession through the main streets of Kathmandu. Ganesh and Aakash Bhairav are also celebrated in this festival, and have their own respective chariots. Thousands of spectators join the march for the spectacle.
It is said that Indra came down to earth disguised as a human to search for Parijat (Night Jasmine) for his Mother. While he was plucking the flowers, he was caught by the people who thought he was a thief and tied him for display in the middle of the street. His mother came in search of him, and when the people of Kathmandu realized what they had done, they released Indra. His mother, who was grateful for the release of her son, promised to give them fog and dew to fertilize their crops for bountiful harvest.
The reenactment of this event is done by a person wearing a mask, going around like the goddess in search of her son. They are followed by a musical band and many people who have lost their families in that year. Masked dancers, such as Lakheys and Pulu Khishi, dance on the street, scaring away evil spirits and symbolizing the search for Indra.
It’s a festival that shows the tolerance to religion, culture, and community. Both Buddhist and Hindu Newar celebrate this festival, while other cultures/cast also join in. It is a national event where communities come together, dance, drink, light up the streets, and eat together.