FESTIVAL OF NEPAL|KINGS

On september 17, again ceremonies has been start over in Basantapur.This is the annual festival dedicated to Indra, the god of rain. But it is also dedicated to Taleju Bhawani, the powerful goddess and protector of Kathmandu who will manifest herself in the Kumari to empower the king and his citizens with divine power. Interestingly, Taleju is supposed to be the family deity of Ravana, the demon king of mythic Lanka and the Taleju of Kathmandu is said to have been brought from India in ancient times.The sacred flag is known as "Indra Dhoja," or "Yosin," and is hoisted in front of the old palace at Hanuman Dhoka in Kathmandu as a sign of Indra's victory.This flag signifies that Lord Indra has come to the valley; and, when it flies, peace, prosperity, and unity are assured there.Mythology says that such a flagpole was presented by Lord Vishnu to Indra, which unifies their forces and gave him divine strength to overcome the demons and Moreover, the masks of Bhairab, the god of wrath, are displayed throughout the week on a small wooden platform supported by posts and offered wine and "Jaand," a local rice beer, in the evenings.At dusk, on this day, thousands of people, in whose family a death has occurred during the year, proceed in a long march, all carrying burning incense in the name of the deceased, and follow a prescribed route, which is believed to be an ancient road that once ringed the town. Some offer lighted oil wicks in small clay dishes, known as "Pala," to shrines and gods as they proceed, while others chant hymns for those souls who have departed & painted masks and hear the beloved stories of Lord Vishnu's marvelous visits to earth, followed by ancient dances, like the "Lakhe Dance," "Sawo Bhaku Dance" and "Elephant Dance" in the city streets, lit by flaming torches.Everything that starts must end, however, and after a weeklong venture, on the final evening the "Yosin," bearing Indra's flag, is lowered amidst religious ceremonies, thus signifying the end of the Indra Jatra festival.Kumari - The living goddess of Nepal. Kumari is considered to be the reincarnation of goddess taleju and Kumari - The living goddess of Nepal being taken to the chariot for the procession.And a Nepal Army soldier turns while they stand for the guard of honour to the festival.A few days later, Basundhara promised to furnish the valley with fog and dew during autumn and winter as moisture for ripening their crops in compensation for her son's release. She further agreed to lead back to heaven the souls of all who had died during the year. As she left the valley, she took all the souls to heaven.Everything that starts must end, however, and after a weeklong venture, on the final evening the "Yosin," bearing Indra's flag, is lowered amidst religious ceremonies, thus signifying the end of the Indra Jatra festival.MORE