Indra Jatra

As the monsoon season draws to a close and the earth has been nourished by rains, usually in August or September, Kathmandu celebrates Indra Jatra, one of its most ancient and spectacular festivals, particularly significant for the Newar community. This week-long event is dedicated to Lord Indra, the Hindu god of rain and king of heaven, with prayers offered for good harvests and abundant rainfall, as well as to the Living Goddess Kumari. The festival’s highlight is a grand chariot procession of the Living Goddess Kumari, accompanied by chariots of Lord Ganesh and Bhairav, through the historic streets of Kathmandu Durbar Square. Masked dancers, notably the fearsome Lakhe dancers, perform energetic routines, traditional music fills the air, and towering lingas (ceremonial poles) are erected, symbolizing Indra. Indra Jatra is a powerful display of Kathmandu’s cultural heritage, gratitude for nature’s bounty, and the spiritual vibrancy that transitions the city from the wet season into the more temperate post-monsoon period.