Today marks a very special day to the people of Kathmandu Valley. Today, the people of Kathmandu (especially the Newar origin of people) celebrate a festival called "Indra Jatra", a feast dedicated to the lord of rain, Indra. This is a carnival where people flood around the streets of Basantapur Durbar Square, where the chariot containing the bust of Lord Indra is circulated throughout the streets of Basantapur Premises.
Today, the chariot, consisting the Living Goddess, "Kumari" ( a form of goddess Taleju) is also transported along with the carnival in a separate chariot. This day significantly depicts the relationship of the people with the almighty and is celebrated with much enthusiasm and happiness.
The carnival or the jatra is celebrated for 8 days. Today, is the main day of the entire ceremony. Along with the chariot, dozen other forms of entertainment, like the "Lakhe", "Pulu Kisi", "Mahakali" also walk around the streets which are treated with faith and respect. The statue of Lord 'Shwet-Bhairav' ( shown in the photo above) is opened for the visitors for worship. This bust of lord Bhairav is brought to appearance only during these 8 days of carnival.
Nepal is a beautiful and culturally significant place. This is the illustration of one of the carnivals, there are other many such kinds of festivals which are celebrated in the valley and across the valley of Kathmandu.
May Lord Indra bless everyone with good fortune and vibes. Happy Indra Jatra People.