IndraJatra of kathmandu valley(Dance of heavenly deities)

Today IndraJatra is widely celebrated at Kathmandu valley (Kathmandu, Patan, Bhaktapur) with lots of fun . Where the chariot of living Goddess Kumari , Bhairav and Lord Ganesh will be pulled around these valley by the youths with lots of excitement and fun is there. They will be welcomed with lots of local foods , wines and vines.

Bhairav of Kathmandu Durbar square

Likewise there’s more events which is called dance of heavenly deities –  Lakhe Naach , Pulu Kisi, Halchowk Bhairav, Asthamatrika along with all Buddhist and Hindu Gods and Goddess dances are performed all around the valley.

Indra Jatra was started by king Gunakamadeva to commemorate the founding of the city of Kathmandu in the 10th century. Kumari Jatra began in the mid-18th century. The celebrations are held according to the lunar calendar, so the dates are changeable. The 2016 date is September 15

Family members deceased in the past year are also remembered during the festival. The main venue of the festivities is Kathmandu Durbar Square. The celebrations last for eight days from the 12th day of the bright fortnight to the 4th day of the dark fortnight of Yanlā (ञला), the eleventh month in the lunar Nepal Era calendar.

Pulu Kisi (elephant) dance
This is performed by the residents of Kilagal tole. Pulu Kisi is believed to be the carrier of Indra himself. Pulu Kisi goes through the streets of the ancient city Kathmandu in search for his imprisoned master. People view the masked creature with roar of excitement and laughter. From time to time It does naughty and mischievous things by running through the street knocking anyone that comes in its path and swinging its tail in an amazing manner.Like other dancers he also has team of musical band and a torch carrier in front.
 
But in these recent years, Pulu Kisi dance has turned out into aggressive festival where youths drink uncontrollably, yelling out bad words and creating chaos everywhere it goes. The Kilagal groups are using it as a source of income too by taking it to different clubs, hotels and taking amount in the name of donation. So this festival has turned into business for them and they are becoming professionals. This has led to the loss of traditional values of this festival.

indra jatra picture

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