KATHMANDU, Sep 15:Indra Jatra, one of the major festivals observed in Kathmandu Valley, begins today.

The festival is celebrated by worshiping Indra, revered as the god of rain and good times. It is called Yenya Punhi among the Newar community.

The festival begins after a pole with Indra dwaja or flag is erected in front of Hanumandhoka in Basantapur. It is celebrated for eight days with various dances, chariot processions and worshipping of gods and goddesses.

In addition to Kathmandu, the festival is also observed in Lalitpur, Bhaktapur, Dhulikhel and Dolakha districts.

The major day of the festival falls on coming Tuesday i.e. September 17, when chariots carrying Ganesha, Bhairav and Kumari are taken around the thoroughfares of Kathmandu. These chariots are also observed by the Head of State and other dignitaries during a special ceremony to be held at Basantapur Durbar Square premises.

Meanwhile, the federal government has declared a public holiday in Kathmandu Valley on Tuesday.