Lumbini: The historic Ranaujireshwori Bhagawati Rath Jatra, a grand chariot procession honoring the goddess Bhagawati, is being celebrated today in Palpa, with President Ram Chandra Paudel set to attend the event. The jatra, which takes place annually the day after Krishna Janmastami, commemorates Nepal's victory over the British in the Anglo-Nepal war at Tansen.

According to Chief District Officer Anand Kafle, President Paudel will grace the 205th victory rally alongside the chariot procession, which also includes the chariot of Amannarayan. The Amannarayan chariot will lead the procession, followed by the Bhagawati chariot.

In recognition of this significant event, the Lumbini Province government has declared a public holiday in Palpa district today.

The jatra has been celebrated since 1876 BS, when Colonel Ujir Singh Thapa first organized it to mark Nepal's triumph. It remains the most significant festival in Palpa, drawing large crowds each year.

Lumbini Province Chief Minister Chet Narayan Acharya, in his message for the occasion, emphasized the importance of preserving historical and cultural heritage sites. He also highlighted the potential to integrate these sites into tourism circuits, fostering harmony among diverse communities.