Bisket Jatra to begin in Bhaktapur from April 9

BHAKTAPUR: Preparations are in full swing for the popular Bisket Jatra in Bhaktapur, slated to begin on April 9 this year.

The festival, celebrated for nine days and eight nights following traditional tantric customs, holds immense cultural significance for the residents of Bhaktapur.

The festivities kick off four days before the New Year with the ceremonial pulling of Bhairav’s chariot, reaching its pinnacle in the middle of the Nepali month of Chaitra with the raising of the lingo adorned with a rainbow flag.

The construction of essential chariots, including those of Bhairav and Bhadrakali, is underway at a rapid pace, emphasizing the festival’s importance.

Khima Wali, the head of Guthi Sansthan Bhaktapur, provided updates on the progress, highlighting the construction of the pagoda-style three-storied chariot in the temple premises of Toumadhi, alongside the initiation of Bhairav’s chariot roof construction.

She further noted that work on Bhadrakali’s chariot has commenced simultaneously, detailing the ongoing preparations, including wood preparation, wheel attachment, repairs, and axle replacements.

Coloration and embellishment of the chariots are scheduled to be completed by the April 8, with official and public pujas marking the commencement on the next day, followed by the ceremonial chariot pulling from 3 pm onwards.