Preparations for historical Bhagwati festival in Palpa completes

By Our Correspndent,Palpa, Sept. 5: Preparations are moving ahead in full swing for the historic Bhagwati Mata Rath Yatra (chariot procession), which is celebrated every year in commemoration of the victory in the Anglo-Nepalese War.

This tradition dates back to the Anglo-Nepalese War of 1815-1816, marking the triumph of the Nepali Army in capturing the Jit Gadhi Fort.

Under the leadership of Colonel Ujir Singh Thapa, who was stationed there at that time, the Nepali army achieved a significant victory over the British forces at Jit Gadhi Fort.

This historic event gave birth to the tradition of organising the chariot procession of Goddess Bhagwati in Tansen, Palpa.

Ashok Kumar Maharjan, Chairman of the Temple Management Committee, said that preparations are in full swing to hold the chariot procession on September 7 this year, to continue the practice that has persisted for two centuries. 

“The historical chariot procession of Bhagwati serves to magnify the glory of Goddess Bhagwati and serves as a poignant reminder of the day when the Nepali army emerged victorious,” added Maharjan. 

The committee has confirmed that all necessary arrangements for the Bhagwati Jatra have been completed. 

This year's chariot procession will mark the 203rd occurrence. 

During the Anglo-Nepalese War, it is believed that upon visiting Tansen Bazaar, Colonel Ujir Singh had paid his reverence to the 16-handed deity, Mahishashur Mardini Bhagwati. He pledged to honour her by building a temple and initiating a Sindoor Jatra (vermillion procession) once the Gorkhali forces emerged victorious in the war. 

Kedarlal Shrestha, the former chairman of the temple management committee, said that this was how the tradition of marching Bhagwati's chariot through the market began.

In preparation for the Bhagwati Jatra, Tansen Municipality is refurbishing the city's roads.

Prakashnath Gangol, the committee's secretary, informed that the Bhagwati Temple is undergoing beautification and maintenance works.

Furthermore, arrangements are being made to provide transportation services for visitors arriving in Tansen from various locations.