Sindoor Jatra

Sindoor Jatra is a vibrant and culturally rich celebration that takes place annually in Madhyapur Thimi. Observed on the 2nd of Baisakh, it marks the beginning of the Nepali New Year and the arrival of spring. People apply sindoor (orange vermillion powder) on one another while singing and dancing to traditional music during the parade.

The Procession of Khats

A highlight of the jatra is the procession of khats (chariots) carrying idols of various deities. Traditionally, 32 khats are paraded through the streets, accompanied by music, dancing, and the throwing of sindoor. There is a tradition of scattering sindoor from windows and roofs of houses, as well as showering flowers upon the arrival of chariots at chowks and four-way intersections. With the permission of the Naike Pradhan (chief of the community), the procession officially begins, moving from Balkumari to Digutole.