Ritualistic Indradhwoj Erected at Basantapur Durbar Square
The Indrajatra lingo, a ritualistic wooden pole, was erected in front of the statue of Kaal Bhairav at Hanuman Dhoka Durbar Square at 10:31 am today, according to the auspicious time set by the Nepal Calendar Determination Development Committee. The pole, brought from Bhotahiti on August 31, was raised with bamboo and rope following tantric rituals. A procession featuring Shri Kumari, Shri Ganesh, and Shri Bhairav is planned on Bhadra Shukla Chaturdashi, the main day of Indra Jatra, in the presence of President Ramchandra Paudel. Indra Jatra is one of the most important cultural festivals of the Kathmandu Valley, with a public holiday typically declared on the occasion.
Nepal Red Cross Society (NRCS) Celebrates Inception Day
NRCS marks its Inception Day with the theme “In Support of Humanity”. Founded on September 4, 1963, and recognized by the ICRC in 1964, NRCS is Nepal’s largest humanitarian organization. With over 1.1 million volunteers and 6,538 junior/youth circles, NRCS operates 242 ambulances across 196 locations and 120 blood transfusion service centres. In the past year, the organization provided aid to thousands affected by disasters, collected 294,848 units of blood, and served 402,510 units to patients. Its services continue to strengthen Nepal’s disaster preparedness, health initiatives, and humanitarian support.
Saljhandi-Dhorpatan Roadway Reopens
The Saljhandi-Dhorpatan road, blocked by a landslide, has resumed operations after three days. Heavy rainfall caused debris to obstruct the route at Dharabot, affecting tourists heading to Dhorpatan Wildlife Reserve. After continuous clearing efforts, the road is now operational. Local authorities urged travelers to check weather and road conditions before traveling.
PM Oli Expresses Grief Over Passing of Singer Indira Gole Gurung
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli expressed sorrow on social media over the death of legendary singer Indira Gole Gurung, who passed away on September 3 after battling cancer. Praising her contributions to Nepali folk music and Tamang Selo, the PM extended condolences to her family and fans.
Indra Jatra Begins in Bhaktapur
The eight-day Indra Jatra festival, celebrating rain and good harvest, commenced in Bhaktapur. The festival features the installation of the lingo (Yambo:Dho) and includes Lakhe naach, Pulu Kisi procession, and chariot ceremonies of Kumari, Ganesh, and Bhairav. Cultural expert Om Dhaubhadel noted the festival commemorates the victory of gods over demons to free Jayanta, Lord Indra’s son.
AFC U-23 Asian Cup Qualifiers: Nepal Defeated by Tajikistan
Nepal lost 4-0 to host Tajikistan in the AFC U-23 Asian Cup Qualifiers at Dushanbe’s Pamir Stadium. Goals were scored by Muhammadali Azizboev (2), Rahmatshoh Rahmatzoda, and Daler Sharipov. Nepal will face Syria in the next match on Saturday.
International News
Thailand Votes for New PM After Dissolution Request Rejected: Acting PM Phumtham Wechayachai confirmed that Thailand’s parliament will proceed with voting for a new leader after rejecting the ruling party’s request to dissolve parliament. Conservative candidate Anutin Charnvirakul is favored to secure support.
European Leaders Face Challenges on Ukraine Security Guarantees: In Paris, European countries discussed postwar security for Ukraine, navigating U.S. involvement and risks related to Russian aggression. Plans include potential troop deployment, training, and military aid, but no ceasefire is yet guaranteed.
Pakistan Floods: 300,000 Evacuated in Eastern Punjab: Following new flood alerts from India, nearly 300,000 people were evacuated in Punjab province. Total displaced since last month now reaches 1.3 million. Relief efforts continue amid submerged villages and damaged homes.
U.S. AI Startup Anthropic Raises $13 Billion in Series F: Led by ICONIQ, Anthropic’s latest funding at a $183 billion valuation aims to expand AI capacity, deepen safety research, and support global operations following rapid growth of its AI model Claude.
Also read: Daily News Roundup – August 31, 2025
