Colorful Bisket Jatra begins in Bhaktapur

Bhaktapur: The colorful and boisterous Bisket Jatra, which is ritually marked for eight consecutive nights and nine days in Nepal's ancient city Bhaktapur, has started from Monday.

Historical records put that the Jatra was first marked during the Lichchhivi era.

This year's Bisket Jatra has officially begun after offering worship in Bhairba temple nearby Paanchtale temple in Naumadi, sources confirmed.

According to the legend, a man who married a princess died of snake bite in Bhaktapur. Nobody dared to marry her for the fear of bad omen. However, one day, a merchant arrived in the village and tied the knot with the princess. But contrary to what was perceived, nothing happened to husband and wife. Both lived a happy life. Precisely, Bisket Jatra is celebrated to remember the defeat of demon.

During the festival, a chariot procession will be held in Bhaktapur and images of Ganesh, Lakshmi and Mahakali will be carried around town.

source: The Himalayan Times, 9 april 2012