Gaijatra celebrations in Basantapur [In Pictures]

KATHMANDU: Locals took out colorful processions in different parts of Kathmandu Valley on Thursday as part of the Gaijatra celebration.

Gaijatra is celebrated primarily by the Newar community in the Kathmandu Valley. The festival holds both cultural and emotional significance, as it is a day for remembering and celebrating the lives of those who have passed away during the preceding year.

The festival is marked by a procession of people dressed in unique and colorful costumes, and many participants wear cow masks, which are symbolic of the sacred cow in Hinduism and also represent the journey of the deceased to the afterlife. The procession is accompanied by music, dance, and sometimes even humor, as people engage in playful acts and satire.

One of the attractions of the Gaijatra celebrations is the Lakhe dance. Lakhe dance is characterized by its vibrant and elaborate costumes, as well as the distinctive wooden masks worn by the performers. Lakhe is believed to be a fierce guardian spirit.

One of the most notable aspects of the Lakhe dance is the acrobatic movements of the performers. They showcase impressive flips, jumps, and spins, displaying their agility and physical prowess. The dance can be both captivating and entertaining, while also carrying cultural and spiritual significance.