The Indra Jatra festival was observed in Kathmandu Valley on Thursday.
The festival, which is observed for eight days, celebrates Indra, the king of gods and god of rains.
Kumari, the living goddess, is taken around parts of the city in a religious procession during the festival.
The government had announced public holiday in Kathmandu Valley to celebrate the festival.
President Bidhya Devi Bhandari observed a chariot procession at Basantapur Durbar Square on the occasion of the festival. Other dignitaries were also present.
The festival began with the hoisting of lingo, a wooden pole, in Hanumandhoka on Tuesday.
Traditional dances like Lakhe Naach, Mahakali Naach, Lusiki Naach and Dash Avatar Naach are also performed during the festival.
The festival falls on the fourth day of the waxing moon in the month of Bhadra as per the lunar calendar.
According to the legend, Indra Jatra is celebrated as a symbol of victory of gods over devils to release Jayanta, the son of Lord Indra.
The festival also marks the beginning of the festive season in the country. Days after the Indra Jatra festival, Nepalis celebrate Dashain and Tihar festivals.
Besides Kathmandu Valley, Indra Jatra was also celebrated in Kavre and Dolakha districts on Thursday.
20.12°C Kathmandu
.jpg&w=300&height=200)
