PALPA: Preparations are in full swing for the historic Bhagwati Mata Rath Jatra, which commemorates Nepal’s victory in the Nepal-British War. This year marks the 206th edition of the grand religious procession, scheduled for August 17.
The Shree 7 Ranujireshwari Bhagwati Guthi Management Committee has intensified its efforts to ensure the success of the event. According to committee chairman Ashok Kumar Maharjan, the jatra pays tribute to the triumph of the Nepali Army over British forces at the Jitgadhi Fort, led by then Colonel Ujirsingh Thapa.
Chairman Maharjan explained that preparations are being made to preserve and promote the two-century-old tradition. “We believe that the historic Bhagwati Rath Jatra not only spreads the glory of Bhagwati Mata but also helps promote religious tourism,” he said.
“It offers a powerful reminder of the day when the Nepali Army achieved victory against the British.”
Historical records indicate that before going to war, Colonel Ujirsingh Thapa had vowed to construct a three-story temple and hold a sindoor jatra in honor of Bhagwati if victorious.
After the successful defense of Jitgadhi, he began celebrating the victory with the Bhagwati Jatra the day after Krishna Janmashtami. The tradition has continued ever since.
Chairman Maharjan also mentioned that, as per tradition, the army displays the swords used in the historic battle and places them on the chariots to honor the valor of the Nepali fighters.
The Jatra will pass through major locations in Tansen Bazaar, including Palpa Durbar, Sheetalpati, Bhagwati Tole, Basantapur, Kailashnagar, Asan Tole, Narayansthan, Bhimsen Tole, Gorakhdal Battalion, Bus Park Andolan Chowk, Badigyan Tole, Silkhan Tole, and Taksar.
The committee expects thousands of people—including high-ranking officials, government employees, and common citizens—from districts such as Palpa, Kathmandu, Gulmi, Arghakhanchi, Rupandehi, Kapilvastu, Nawalparasi, Chitwan, Syangja, Kaski, and beyond to attend and witness the festival.
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