Biska Jatra Celebrated with Sindur Festival in Madhyapur Thimi

The vibrant festival of Biska Jatra was celebrated with great enthusiasm in Madhyapur Thimi, where it is widely known as Sindur Jatra. Marking the start of the Nepali New Year in the month of Baisakh, locals gathered to celebrate by throwing vermilion powder (simrik) on each other amidst the rhythmic beats of traditional Newari Dhime music. Devotees from different parts of Thimi assembled at Siddhikali Temple on the first day and at Balkumari Temple on the second day, carrying chariots of their respective deities. Meanwhile, in nearby Bode, the unique tongue-piercing ritual was performed, where a local resident marched through the town with an iron needle pierced through his tongue, accompanied by traditional music, locals, and visitors. Madhyapur Thimi, Nepal – April 15, 2026.