Traditional heroic epic poems. It is consisted of many poems and dedicated to the defense of native-land and heroic actions.

Traditional heroic epic poems. It is consisted of many poems and dedicated to the defense of native-land and heroic actions.

Traditional heroic epic poems. It is consisted of many poems and dedicated to the defense of native-land and heroic actions.

Terrifying aspect of Lakhe of Nepal.\nNepal is a beautiful country, home to a people of different ethnic and caste groups; having their own traditions, cultures, languages and values handed down from generation to generation. The Lakhe meaning demon believed to be arrived from South India in 11th century is worshiped for its divine power and cherished with other deities during a great Indra Jatra festival is one of the distinct intangible cultural heritage within Newar community of Nepal.

Also known as Royal Lakhe, Majipa Lakhe is brought out only in the month of September for the Indra Jatra Festival. Surrounded by lighted oil lamps, Lakhe mask is worshipped and offered variety of food items in the belief that Lakhe must be kept happy so it will provide blessings and protect villagers from outbreak of epidemic diseases.

Lakhe comes out with joy and excitement to show off its vibrantly colorful batik attached to its arms. Lakhe is expected to follow a traditional route covering the periphery of the old city of Kathmandu.

Lakhe dance is divided into four different depictions: (i) snake, (ii) frog, (iii) eagle, and (iv) tiger. Sabre-toothed Lakhe pounces in a free flowing well-coordinated dance movements.

Majipa Lakhe is visited by Devi Nach performers from neighboring village. They will perform along with living goddess-Kumari, Bhairab, Ganesh, Dasha Avatars, Pulukishi and other deities in eight-days procession.

Majipa Lakhe is observed by thousands including the Head of State during Indra Jatra Festival. Newar community in Kathmandu have been celebrating this century-old festival from time immemorial.

After Indra Jatra concluded on the eighth day, Lakhe mask with its attire is placed to its throne and worshipped for one last final ritual. It is offered with shamhya baji (legumes). A guardian of Lakhe puts away the mask and other accessories back to the chest, leaving the house until next year. This marks the end of Majipa Lakhe. Public viewing is restricted to this rituals.

All Majipa Lakhe performers are required to pay their visits to dance goddess in respect to wear Lakhe mask and costumes. They carefully plan and prepare eight-days performing schedule. Three to four performers take turns for a single day performance.