The historic Rana Ujeshwori Bhagwati Chariot Festival in Palpa is set to take place today, with President Ram Chandra Paudel scheduled to attend. The Lumbini Province government has declared a public holiday in Palpa to mark the occasion.
The festival commemorates the victory of the Nepali forces, led by Colonel Ujir Singh Thapa, over the British army. Every year, the chariot procession is held the day after Krishna Janmashtami from the historic Rana Ujeshwori Bhagwati Temple in Tansen. The tradition began in 1877 B.S. as a celebration of the victory, which is believed to have been achieved through the blessings of the goddess Bhagwati after Colonel Thapa prayed to her before going to battle.
The Ranujireshwari Bhagwati Temple, a three-story structure, was constructed between 1872 and 1876 B.S., and the chariot procession has been held annually ever since as a symbol of triumph.
Meanwhile, Lumbini Province Chief Minister Chet Narayan Acharya extended his best wishes on the occasion, emphasizing the importance of preserving historical heritage and traditions. He also announced plans to develop a tourism circuit connecting the 12 districts of the province, spanning the Himalayas, hills, and plains, to promote balanced and sustainable development.
