The ancient city of Bhaktapur has officially begun the nine-day Biska Jatra festival today, Chaitra 27, marking the ceremonial start of the celebrations for the upcoming Nepali New Year 2083.
The festival formally commenced this afternoon with the Dyo Kwah Bijyaigu ritual, where the idols of Lord Bhairavnath and Goddess Bhadrakali were installed in their respective wooden chariots at Taumadhi Square. Thousands of devotees gathered in front of the five-story Nyatapola Temple to witness the start of the chariot pulling, a traditional tug-of-war between residents of the upper and lower parts of the city.
To ensure a peaceful celebration, the Bhaktapur District Administration has deployed over 3,000 security personnel. Chief District Officer Umesh Kumar Dhakal announced a strict ban on the sale and consumption of alcohol in the festival areas during the procession hours. The administration has also installed high-resolution CCTV cameras along the chariot route to monitor the crowds and prevent the stone-throwing incidents that have occasionally marred the festival in previous years.
Cultural Significance
Unlike other major festivals in Nepal, Biska Jatra is determined by the solar calendar rather than the lunar one. The construction of the three-story pagoda-style Bhairavnath chariot was completed yesterday by local craftsmen from the Shilpkar, Nakarmi, and Chitrakar communities.
“The beat of the Dhime and the synchronized dances reflect the victory of the Malla-era prince over the serpents,” said local resident Manish Ghimire. “It is not just a holiday; it is the heartbeat of Bhaktapur.”
Upcoming Highlights
The festivities will reach their peak on Chaitra 30 with the raising of the Yosing-dyo (the ceremonial 55-hand-long pole) at Bhelukhel. The pole will be pulled down on the evening of Baisakh 1 (New Year’s Day), symbolizing the start of the year 2083.
The Guthi Sansthan has estimated the total cost of this year’s rituals and chariot maintenance at approximately Rs. 4 million. Residents and tourists are advised to watch the chariot pulling from the safety of temple plinths or balconies, as the movement of the massive wooden wheels through the narrow streets of Taumadhi can be unpredictable.