On Tuesday, The Dwarika’s Hotel in Kathmandu recreated the festivities of Indra Jatra, one of the valley’s largest cultural festivals. The celebration at the hotel offered guests a glimpse into Nepal’s artistic practices and festivals.

The hotel welcomed guests with aila, a Newa drink and a symbol of good fortune that marks the beginning of the festivities. From the Kumari Puja, which invokes the living goddess’ blessing and sets the tone for the event, the evening unfolded into various cultural performances that echo Nepal's rich heritage.

The tunes of traditional instruments such as khain, paschima, bhusya, tah (Tinchu), bou (Jhayali), murali, and madal mesmerised the listeners. Guests were treated to displays of the Devi Dance, Aarati Dance, and more, including the Lakhey Dance, in which the mythical Lakhey and Jhyalincha engaged in a riveting face-off. Each performance told a story of deities and traditions passed down through generations.

“We recreate the festival within the complex of the property, so our guests can interact with the performers and even partake in the chariot pulling ceremony so they feel a part of the festival’s reverence and collective energy,” said René Vijay Shrestha Einhaus, executive director at The Dwarika's Group of Hotels and Resorts.

Food played a crucial part in the celebrations, which included feasts for the Gods—a lavish buffet of Newari delicacies was served.