Third 'Biska Jatra' Festival to Showcase Nepali Culture in London on April 19

London. The third 'Biska Jatra' is set to be organized in London on April 19 with the aim of promoting Nepali art and culture in the United Kingdom. A press conference was held in London to provide information about the preparations for this Jatra, which will be organized by Pasa Puchah Guthi UK at the Open Air Theatre Central Park in Dartford.

This Jatra, being held in collaboration with the Nepali Embassy in London and with the support of various local organizations, aims to make London a center for international festivals.

Cultural Coordinator Satyaprasad Prajapati stated that the Jatra will feature the pulling of the chariot of Bhairav and Bhadrakali, the lowering of the Yosin Dyo (pole), and a display of the Sindur Jatra from Madhyapur Thimi, mirroring the famous Biska Jatra of Bhaktapur. Nine musical groups from 4 branches will present tunes of Dhime, Dha, and Bansuri. Attendees will have the opportunity to taste authentic Newari food, Samay Baji, and Yomari. Face painting and other recreational activities will also be arranged for children.

Sushil Prajapati, BOT Chairman of Pasa Puchah Guthi UK, informed that mayors from various municipalities, heritage experts, and cultural experts from Nepal have been invited to the Jatra. Guests are expected to arrive from Nepal as well as other countries in Europe and around the world. Invitations have already been sent to the Nepali Embassy family in London and about 120 local organizations. He mentioned that the organization has been preparing for the Jatra for the past 8 months to ensure its success.

According to Event Coordinator Suroj Maskey, the Jatra will operate from 12 PM to 6 PM. It is estimated that more than 2,500 spectators will attend the Jatra. The entry fee is set at 10 pounds online and 15 pounds at the gate. Free entry is arranged for children under 12 years old.

According to Anju Suwal, there will be 6 food stalls and 16 commercial and charity stalls at the event venue, where authentic costumes, jewelry, millet liquor, and various service-oriented businesses will be displayed. Officials of Pasa Puchah Guthi UK expressed their belief that this Jatra will be an important step in introducing Nepali art and culture to the second-generation Nepali children born in the UK. The organizers estimate the cost to complete the Jatra to be around 26,000 pounds.