Biska Jatra
Bhaktapur, a city rich in cultural and historical heritage, celebrates the grand festival of Biska Jatra every year at the end of Chaitra and the beginning of Baisakh. This jatra, a fusion of tradition, religion, mythology, and celebration, marks a special occasion linked to the celebration of the Nepali New Year and reflects the unique identity of Bhaktapur.
On the first day of Baisakh (Baisakh Krishna Pratipada), the chariot procession of Bhairabnath and Bhadrakali takes place, starting from the Nyatapola Temple in Taumadhi Square. The deities are placed on chariots and paraded through the city. The jatra kicks off on the last day of Chaitra with the installation of the Lingo (Lyo Sin Dyo), a tall pole with a green flag featuring the image of Nag and Nagini. On the first day of Baisakh, the lingo is then fallen, and the procession ends with prayers at the temples of Bhairab and Bhadrakali on Baisakh 5th.
During this period, chariot processions of Ashta Matrika Gan, Bhairab, and Ganesh are held throughout Bhaktapur. The tradition of Biska Jatra, or “Visikay Jatra,” is said to have originated during the reign of Lichhavi King Manadeva, following the death of a giant serpent. The Biska Jatra begins on Chaitra 28th and ends on Baisakh 5th. In addition to Bhaktapur, this jatra is also celebrated in places like Sangha, Shrikhandpur, Banepa, and Chokote in Kavre.
The Legend of the Achaju Couple and the Origin of Biska Jatra
During the reign of Lichhavi King Shivdev, the Kirats kept attacking Bhaktapur. The king, fearing for his safety, sought the help of Goddess Vajrayogini. Vajrayogini instructed him to consult Shekhar Achaju, a tantric expert in the kingdom. Following her advice, the king went to Achaju, who devised a plan to transform into a tiger and lead an army of a thousand tigers to attack the Kirants at night. Achaju, in the form of a tiger, launched an assault on the Kirant forces throughout the night, killing many and forcing the rest to flee for their lives. Later, he used Akshata (rice blessed with a mantra) to return to his human form.
Achaju’s wife, Nararupa, also desired to see a serpent form. Achaju used the same akshata to turn into a serpent. However, Nararupa was frightened, and as she fled in fear, Achaju followed her. As her scarf slipped, Akshata transformed her into a serpent as well. Later, when they went to the king’s palace to seek help, King Shivdev showed no concern for their condition and sent a message saying he would not help them. In despair, the Achaju couple committed suicide near the Bhadrakali temple.
Realising the consequences of the couple’s tragic death, the king ordered a ritual to solve the ensuing famine and crisis. The couple’s bodies were cremated with royal honors at Triveni Ghat, and their image was hung on a lingo. In remembrance of this, every year on Chaitra Masanta, the image of a serpent is drawn, and the Biska Jatra is celebrated.
On the first day of Baisakh, people take a ritual bath at Baghdwar, the source of the Bagmati river, and then at Sapan Tirtha (Tokha). They offer prayers to Sapan Ganesh and watch the Biska Jatra in Bhaktapur, believing that doing so will purify them of all sins and earn them blessings.