Dancing in celebration of Indra Jatra
We are in Durbar Square, close to the resort of Hanuman Dhoka Palace in the center of the lovely city of Kathmandu. Our contemplation of the great structures of the palace establishment was interrupted by a mass that made its appearance on one side of the square. Hundreds of people surrounding a group of dancers, dressed in costumes and masks, dancing wildly. The color and clamor are incredible. In a prominent place in the Plaza there was a golden mask which belongs to Bhairab, a representation of Shiva and whose feet are where animal sacrifices are made. We were interested to know the reasons for that conclusion and to our surprise it is the celebration of Indra Jatra, one of the oldest and most colorful festivals celebrated in Nepal and have place between the months of September and October.
