Yenya Punhi:, a significant festival in the Kathmandu Valley, is celebrated with deep devotion and vibrant festivities in Madhyapur Thimi. Known for its unique Newar heritage, Thimi honors Indra, the god of rain and king of heaven, with a distinct local flair, blending spirituality, tradition, and community spirit.

The celebration involves a series of rituals and colorful processions, featuring traditional dances, musical performances, and the display of hand-carried chariots. These chariots carry images of deities and local guardians, symbolizing protection and blessings for the community. The processions move through the narrow, historic streets, accompanied by the rhythmic beats of traditional drums, cymbals, and wind instruments, filling the air with an energetic, joyful ambiance.

Central to Indra Jatra in Thimi is the worship of Akash Bhairab, a revered deity representing protection and prosperity. In an elaborate ritual, devotees offer flowers, fruits, and prayers, seeking blessings for good fortune and bountiful harvests. Another distinctive element is the participation of masked dancers, who portray divine and mythological figures, bringing these legends to life.

In Madhyapur Thimi, Indra Jatra is more than a religious event; it’s a celebration of unity and the cultural identity of the Newar people, preserving age-old traditions while bringing the community together in shared reverence and joy.