Kathmandu - The historic town of Banepa in Kavre has officially started its annual Chandeshwari Jatra today. This major festival is celebrated by the local residents every year during Chandi Purnima and lasts for three full days.

The festival brings together the entire community across the seven traditional villages of Banepa. It is especially important to the Newar community, including the Manandhar, Bhochhibhoya, and Rajvahak families, who all play key roles in the rituals.

How the Festival Begins

The celebration kicked off early this morning with the Mata Puja, also known as the Chirag Yatra. During this ritual, locals carry traditional oil lamps (Chirags) from their homes to the sound of traditional music like Dhime and Naykhin. They gather at Layaku in Banepa and walk to Jaleshwar Mahadev to complete the ceremony.

Following the morning prayers on Friday, the town transforms into a festive hub. Families clean and purify their homes, and grand feasts are organized in almost every household throughout the three-day period.

Traditions and the Chariot Procession

One unique tradition involves a sacred sword (Khadga) brought from Hanuman Dhoka in Kathmandu. This sword is worshiped alongside the goddess, representing the government’s participation in the local festival.

Other interesting highlights of the first day include:

• The Sheep Sacrifice: At Tindhara, a sheep is sacrificed before the chariot (Khat), which does not have wheels.
• The Journey to the Temple: Young men carry this heavy, empty chariot on their shoulders all the way to the Chandeshwari Temple.
• Community Support: As the chariot moves through the streets, residents cheer from their windows. People even toss offerings and "Prasad" from their balconies directly onto the chariot as it passes by.

Celebrating the Victory of Good Over Evil

The festival honors Goddess Chandeshwari, who is believed to have defeated the demon king Chandaasur. On the day after the full moon, the chariot carrying the goddess is brought to Bakutol. This location is significant because it is believed to be the place where the demon was finally laid to rest after being killed by the goddess.

The procession then moves to the ancient Layaku Palace. Finally, the statue of the goddess is placed in a smaller chariot and taken back to the main Chandeshwari Temple, marking the end of the festival.

Faith and Devotion

Devotees travel from far away to join the Jatra. Many believe that participating in the festival and praying to Goddess Chandeshwari will fulfill their deepest wishes. With traditional songs, crowded streets, and deep religious faith, the Chandeshwari Jatra remains one of the most lively and meaningful cultural events in the Kavre district.