Chariot construction for Biska: Jatra (Photo Feature)

Bhaktapur: The construction of Sri Bhairavnath’s chariot for ‘Biska: Jatra’ is in the final stage.

The 1500-year-old historical and cultural festival ‘Biska: Jatra’ festival is celebrated in the ancient city; Bhaktapur. This festival is one of the oldest traditional cultural festivals of Bhaktapur. It is celebrated for 8 nights and 9 days.

Likewise, local craftsmen are busy in the construction of the 35-foot-high three-storied chariot of Sri Bhairavnath as per tantric method. The chariot is a fully wooden pagoda-style structure.

This historic jatra began during the Licchavi period. The festival starts 4 days, before the start of the New Year Bikram Sambat. The festival begins by pulling the chariot of Sri Bhairavnath and Sri Bhadrakali.

This year Bisket Jatra begins on 9 April (Chaitra 27).

(Glimpses of Sri Bhairavnath’s Chariot construction at Bhaktapur)

(Photo Courtesy: Saroj Basnet)