Indra Jatra festival formally begins today with erection of lingo (With photos)

KATHMANDU: Indra Jatra, one the biggest festivals dedicated to god of rain Indra, formally began with the erection of a sacred wooden pole (lingo) at Hanumandhoka in Basantapur Durbar Square on Saturday.

The lingo was erected at the auspicious time of 6:51 am.

During the festival, which is celebrated for eight days in the Kathmandu Valley, Lakhe dances are performed on the streets of Kathmandu.

The lingo brought from Sallaghari in Bhaktapur was installed on the chariot with the help of Nepal army personnel.

Indra Jatra festival falls on the fourth day of the waxing moon in the month of Bhadra as per the lunar calendar.

Indra Jatra festival is observed to celebrate the victory of the gods over the demons to release Jayanta, the son of Lord Indra.

Photos: Umesh Karki