Saturday, March 14th, 2026

Chir erected in Basantapur marking the beginning of Holi Festival (with photos)



KATHMANDU: Holi, the festival of colors, kicked off with the traditional installation of the ceremonial wooden pole known as ‘Chir’ at the Hanuman Dhoka Palace premises in the historic Basantapur area.

The pole was erected at the auspicious hour of 7:47 AM on Sunday morning.

The Phagu Festival officially begins in the Kathmandu Valley following the installation of the ‘Chir’ at Basantapur on the eighth day of the bright half of the month of Falgun, according to the lunar calendar.

Celebrations for the Phagu festival continue with enthusiasm and fervor until the full moon day.

As the ritualistic Chir was set up at Basantapur today, people joyously indulged in smearing each other with vibrant colors as part of the festivities.

This year, the Phagu Festival is scheduled to be celebrated in the hilly regions on March 24 and in the Tarai (southern plain regions) on March 25.

Here are some captivating pictures captured by Khabarhub Photojournalist Chirayu Shakya this morning at Basantapur Durbar Square:

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