Limbu Festivals
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Nepal stands as a unique example of a secular and multicultural nation where diverse festivals are joyfully celebrated within communities. In Nepal, individuals of varying religious backgrounds coexist in the same neighborhoods and societies, fostering a spirit of unity as they come together to share in the celebrations of a multitude of festivals, thus sharing their joys, happiness, and sorrows as a harmonious whole.


Dashain

''Dashain'' (; , also ''Baḍādaśhãin'' or ''Bijayā Daśamī'' ) is the 15-day-long festival and holidays of
Nepal Nepal, officially the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal, is a landlocked country in South Asia. It is mainly situated in the Himalayas, but also includes parts of the Indo-Gangetic Plain. It borders the Tibet Autonomous Region of China Ch ...
. It is the longest and the most auspicious festival in the Nepalese annual calendar, celebrated by Nepalese Hindu people throughout the globe. It is not only the longest festival of the country, but also the one which is most anticipated. As one of the popular countries, Nepal has its Hindu festival as Dashain. The festival falls in September or October, starting from the
shukla paksha Paksha () refers to a fortnight or a lunar phase in a month of the Hindu lunar calendar. Literally meaning "side", a paksha is the period either side of the '' purnima'' ( full moon day). A lunar month in the Hindu calendar has two fortnights, ...
(bright lunar fortnight) of the month of
Ashvin Ashvin or Ashwin or Ashwan (; ; Malay/ Indonesian: ''Aswin''; Thai: ''Asawin''), also known as Aswayuja, is the seventh month of the lunisolar Hindu calendar, the solar Tamil calendar, where it is known as Aippasi, and the solar Indian nation ...
and ending on
purnima Pūrṇimā () is the word for full moon in Sanskrit. The day of Purnima is the day ('' Tithi'') in each month when the full moon occurs, and marks the division in each month between the two lunar fortnights (paksha), and the Moon is aligned exac ...
, the full moon. Among the 10 days for which it is celebrated, the most important days are the first, seventh, eighth, ninth and the tenth, but tenth day is very important Throughout the country
Shakti Shakti (Devanagari: शक्ति, IAST: Śakti; 'energy, ability, strength, effort, power, might, capability') in Hinduism, is the "Universal Power" that underlies and sustains all existence. Conceived as feminine in essence, Shakti refer ...
is worshiped in all her manifestations. This festival is also known for its emphasis on the family gatherings, as well as on a renewal of community ties. People return from all parts of the world, as well as different parts of the country, to celebrate together. All government offices, educational institutions and other private offices remain closed during the festival and holidays period. Significance Dashain symbolizes the victory of good over evil. For followers of
Shaktism Shaktism () is a major Hindu denomination in which the God in Hinduism, deity or metaphysics, metaphysical reality is considered metaphorically to be a woman. Shaktism involves a galaxy of goddesses, all regarded as different aspects, mani ...
, it represents the bare victory of the goddess,
Shakti Shakti (Devanagari: शक्ति, IAST: Śakti; 'energy, ability, strength, effort, power, might, capability') in Hinduism, is the "Universal Power" that underlies and sustains all existence. Conceived as feminine in essence, Shakti refer ...
. In
Hindu mythology Hindu mythology refers to the collection of myths associated with Hinduism, derived from various Hindu texts and traditions. These myths are found in sacred texts such as the Vedas, the Itihasas (the ''Mahabharata'' and the ''Ramayan ...
, the demon
Mahishasura Mahishasura (, ) is a bovine asura in Hinduism. He is depicted in Hindu texts, Hindu literature as a deceitful demon who pursued his evil ways by shape-shifting. Mahishasura was the son of the asura Rambha (asura), Rambha and the brother of buf ...
had created terror in the
devaloka In Indian religions, a devaloka or deva loka is a plane of existence where deity, gods aka Deva (Hinduism), devas exist. The deva lokas are usually described as places of eternal light and goodness, similar to the concept of Heaven. Teachers ...
(the world where gods live ) but
Durga Durga (, ) is a major Hindu goddess, worshipped as a principal aspect of the mother goddess Mahadevi. She is associated with protection, strength, motherhood, destruction, and wars. Durga's legend centres around combating evils and demonic ...
killed the demon. The first nine days of Dashain symbolizes the battle which took place between the different manifestations of Durga and Mahishasura. The tenth day is the day when Durga finally defeated him. For other Hindus, this festival symbolizes the victory of
Rama Rama (; , , ) is a major deity in Hinduism. He is worshipped as the seventh and one of the most popular avatars of Vishnu. In Rama-centric Hindu traditions, he is considered the Supreme Being. Also considered as the ideal man (''maryāda' ...
over
Ravana According to the Mahakavya, Hindu epic, ''Ramayana'', Ravana was a kingJustin W. Henry, ''Ravana's Kingdom: The Ramayana and Sri Lankan History from Below'', Oxford University Press, p.3 of the island of Lanka, in which he is the chief antag ...
as recounted in the ''
Ramayana The ''Ramayana'' (; ), also known as ''Valmiki Ramayana'', as traditionally attributed to Valmiki, is a smriti text (also described as a Sanskrit literature, Sanskrit Indian epic poetry, epic) from ancient India, one of the two important epics ...
''. In
Nepal Nepal, officially the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal, is a landlocked country in South Asia. It is mainly situated in the Himalayas, but also includes parts of the Indo-Gangetic Plain. It borders the Tibet Autonomous Region of China Ch ...
all Hindu ethnic groups celebrate this festival with their own variation. Among the
Newar Newar (; , endonym: Newa; , Pracalit script: ), or Nepami, are primarily inhabitants in Kathmandu Valley of Nepal and its surrounding areas, and the creators of its historic heritage and civilisation. Page 15. Newars are a distinct linguisti ...
s, it is known as Swanti. The festival is celebrated from Trayodashi of Kartik Krishna to Kartik Shukla Dwitiya every year. Tihar in general signifies the festival of lights, where diyas are lit both inside and outside the houses to make it illuminate at night. The five-day festival is considered to be of great importance as it shows reverence to not just the humans and the Gods, but also to the animals such as crow, cow and dog, who maintain an intense relationship with the humans. People make patterns on the floor of living rooms or courtyards using materials such as colored rice, dry flour, colored sand or flower petals outside of their house, called "Rangoli" which is meant to be sacred welcoming areas for the Hindu deities. During the celebrations gamblers are found in the streets and some gamblers are known to make extreme bets such as staking their properties and some times their own daughters and wives' jewelry.


Tihar

Tihar ( Nepali: तिहार; also known as Deepawali and Yamapanchak or Swanti (
Newar Newar (; , endonym: Newa; , Pracalit script: ), or Nepami, are primarily inhabitants in Kathmandu Valley of Nepal and its surrounding areas, and the creators of its historic heritage and civilisation. Page 15. Newars are a distinct linguisti ...
: स्वन्ती:)), is a five-day Hindu festival celebrated in
Nepal Nepal, officially the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal, is a landlocked country in South Asia. It is mainly situated in the Himalayas, but also includes parts of the Indo-Gangetic Plain. It borders the Tibet Autonomous Region of China Ch ...
. Tihar is analogous to the Indian festival of
Diwali Diwali (), also called Deepavali (IAST: ''Dīpāvalī'') or Deepawali (IAST: ''Dīpāwalī''), is the Hindu festival of lights, with variations celebrated in other Indian religions such as Jainism and Sikhism. It symbolises the spiritual v ...
, the festival of lights, but with some significant differences. Like with Diwali, Tihar is marked by lighting ''
diyas Zarina Diyas (; ; born 18 October 1993) is a Kazakh professional tennis player. She has been ranked as high as No. 31 by the WTA. Diyas has won one singles title on the WTA Tour, at the 2017 Japan Women's Open, along with nine singles titles ...
'' inside and outside the home but unlike the Indian festival, the five days of Tihar include celebration and worship of the four creatures associated with the Hindu god of death
Yama Yama (), also known as Kāla and Dharmarāja, is the Hindu god of death and justice, responsible for the dispensation of law and punishment of sinners in his abode, Naraka. He is often identified with Dharmadeva, the personification of ''Dharm ...
, with the final day reserved for people themselves. According to the
Vikram Samvat Vikram Samvat (ISO: ''Vikrama Saṁvata''; abbreviated VS), also known as the Vikrami calendar is a Hindu calendar historically used in the Indian subcontinent and still also used in several Indian states and Nepal. It is a lunisolar calendar ...
calendar, the festival begins with Kaag (crow) Tihar on Trayodashi of Kartik Krishna Paksha (the 13th day of the waning moon) and ends with Bhai (brother) Tika on Dwitiya of Kartik Sukla Paksha every year. In the
Gregorian calendar The Gregorian calendar is the calendar used in most parts of the world. It went into effect in October 1582 following the papal bull issued by Pope Gregory XIII, which introduced it as a modification of, and replacement for, the Julian cale ...
, the festival falls sometime between October and November every year. In the Year 2023
A.D The terms (AD) and before Christ (BC) are used when designating years in the Gregorian and Julian calendars. The term is Medieval Latin and means "in the year of the Lord" but is often presented using "our Lord" instead of "the Lord", tak ...
(2080 B.S), Tihar Starts From 11 November or 25th Of Kartik and ends on 15 November or 29th of Kartik. It is celebrated over Yamaraj taking the time out of his job over ruling his world and meeting his own sister, Yamuna.


Bhai Tika art of Tihar

On the fifth day of Yamapanchak, as part of the Tihar Festival, men visit the house of their sister's, where sister put a tika or mark on his forehead and a garland around his neck. Sisters pray for long and prosperous life of their brothers. The men then touches the feet of their sisters and whereby grand meal (
Sel roti Sel roti () is a traditional Nepalese ring-shaped sweet fried dough made from rice flour. It is mostly prepared during Dashain and Tihar, widely celebrated Hindu festivals in Nepal as well as Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Sikkim and the Kumaon re ...
, sweetmeats and other enjoyable things to eat) is served by sisters to brothers in their house . In return she receives a gift of money, clothes or ornaments etc.


Other festivals


Chhath

In context of
Nepal Nepal, officially the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal, is a landlocked country in South Asia. It is mainly situated in the Himalayas, but also includes parts of the Indo-Gangetic Plain. It borders the Tibet Autonomous Region of China Ch ...
,
Chhath Chhath is an ancient Hindu festival, native to eastern India and southern Nepal. It is celebrated especially in the Indian states of Bihar, Jharkhand, and Eastern Uttar Pradesh; and Koshi, Gandaki, Bagmati, Lumbini and Madhesh province ...
( Nepali: छठ, छठी, छठ पर्व, छठ पुजा, डाला छठ, डाला पुजा, सुर्य षष्ठी) is a festival of the
Terai The Terai or Tarai is a lowland region in parts of southern Nepal and northern India that lies to the south of the outer foothills of the Himalayas, the Sivalik Hills and north of the Indo-Gangetic Plain. This lowland belt is characterised by ...
region of
Nepal Nepal, officially the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal, is a landlocked country in South Asia. It is mainly situated in the Himalayas, but also includes parts of the Indo-Gangetic Plain. It borders the Tibet Autonomous Region of China Ch ...
celebrated by the
Nepalese people Nepali or Nepalese () are the permanent citizens of Nepal under Nepali nationality law. The term ''Nepali'' strictly refers to ''nationality'', meaning people holding citizenship of Nepal. Conversely, people without Nepalese citizenship but wi ...
of
Tharus The Tharu people are an ethnic group living in the Terai in southern Nepal and northern India. They speak Tharu languages. They are recognized as an official ethnicity by the Government of Nepal. In the Indian Terai, they live foremost in Uttara ...
, indigenous Bhojpuriyas,
Maithil Maithils (Devanagari: मैथिल), also known as Maithili people, are an Indo-Aryan cultural and ethno-linguistic group from the Indian subcontinent, who speak the Maithili language as their native language. They inhabit the Mithila regio ...
s and other Madhesi ethnic groups in all the major parts of
Nepal Nepal, officially the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal, is a landlocked country in South Asia. It is mainly situated in the Himalayas, but also includes parts of the Indo-Gangetic Plain. It borders the Tibet Autonomous Region of China Ch ...
including
Kathmandu Kathmandu () is the capital and largest city of Nepal, situated in the central part of the country within the Kathmandu Valley. As per the 2021 Nepal census, it has a population of 845,767 residing in 105,649 households, with approximately 4 mi ...
, the capital city of the country. In modern days,
Chhath Chhath is an ancient Hindu festival, native to eastern India and southern Nepal. It is celebrated especially in the Indian states of Bihar, Jharkhand, and Eastern Uttar Pradesh; and Koshi, Gandaki, Bagmati, Lumbini and Madhesh province ...
is even celebrated in hills by the Pahari people. The government of
Nepal Nepal, officially the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal, is a landlocked country in South Asia. It is mainly situated in the Himalayas, but also includes parts of the Indo-Gangetic Plain. It borders the Tibet Autonomous Region of China Ch ...
declares the Public holidays all over
Nepal Nepal, officially the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal, is a landlocked country in South Asia. It is mainly situated in the Himalayas, but also includes parts of the Indo-Gangetic Plain. It borders the Tibet Autonomous Region of China Ch ...
during the
Chhath Chhath is an ancient Hindu festival, native to eastern India and southern Nepal. It is celebrated especially in the Indian states of Bihar, Jharkhand, and Eastern Uttar Pradesh; and Koshi, Gandaki, Bagmati, Lumbini and Madhesh province ...
festivals. It is a Hindu festival dedicated to the Hindu Sun God, Surya and Chhathi Maiya (ancient Vedic Goddess Usha). The Chhath Puja is performed in order to thank Surya for sustaining life on earth and to request the granting of certain wishes. The Sun, considered the god of energy and of the life-force, is worshiped during the Chhath festival to promote well-being, prosperity and progress. In Hinduism, Sun worship is believed to help cure a variety of diseases, including leprosy, and helps ensure the longevity and prosperity of family members, friends, and elders. The rituals of the festival are rigorous and are observed over a period of four days. They include holy bathing, fasting and abstaining from drinking water (Vratta), standing in water for long periods of time, and offering ''prashad'' (prayer offerings) and ''arghya'' to the setting and rising sun.


Biska Jatra

Biska Jatra ( Biska Jatra) is an annually celebrated festival of
Bhaktapur Bhaktapur (Nepali language, Nepali and Sanskrit: भक्तपुर, ; "City of Devotees"), known locally as Khwopa (Nepal Bhasa: , ) and historically called Bhadgaon, is a city in the east corner of the Kathmandu Valley in Nepal located abou ...
celebrated in the new year of
Bikram Sambat Vikram Samvat (ISO: ''Vikrama Saṁvata''; abbreviated VS), also known as the Vikrami calendar is a Hindu calendar historically used in the Indian subcontinent and still also used in several Indian states and Nepal. It is a lunisolar calendar, ...
. Different idols of gods and goddesses are placed in their chariot called "kha" and are taken to different parts of Bhaktapur. It is the second biggest festival of the people of Bhaktapur after Dashain. It is celebrated for more than a week in Bhaktapur. Grand feasts are organized in different parts of Bhaktapur. Similarly, in
Madhyapur Thimi Madhyapur-Thimi, also known as Thimi, () is a municipality in Bhaktapur District in the Bagmati Zone of central Nepal. Thimi lies between Kathmandu, Lalitpur and Bhaktapur in the Kathmandu Valley. It is one of the ancient cultural and historical ...
(a part of Bhaktapur) people celebrate this festival by smearing colors in each others. Another part of Thimi named Bode celebrates this festival with tongue-piercing of the resident belonging to a
Shrestha Śrēṣṭha () is a Nepali surname, which means "most excellent” or "great” in Sanskrit. It is one of the eponym surnames used by those belonging to the caste of Shresthas who own Bogati and Damais and are at the epitome of status prior to ...
family. Biska Jatra is also celebrated in places like Dhulikhel, Khadpu, Sanga and Tokha.


Bajra Yogini Jatra

Bajra Yogini was originally celebrated by Buddhists but is also celebrated by Hindus on the 3rd of
Baisakh Vaisakha (, ) is a month of the Hindu calendar that corresponds to April/May in the Gregorian Calendar. In the Indian national calendar, Vaisakha is the second month of the year. It is the first month of the Vikram Samvat calendar, Odia calenda ...
. Her temple, Kharg yogini, is found at Manichur mountain, near
Sankhu Sankhu (Nepal Bhasa: साँखु, alternative name: Sakwa (Nepal Bhasa: /सक्व)) is the ancient Newari town located in the north-eastern corner of Kathmandu Valley, about 17 km from the city center of Kathmandu. Mani-Yogini, on ...
. During the week-long festival, a fire is burned in the vicinity of the temple near an image of a human head. An image of the goddess is placed in a ''khat'' (a wooden shrine) and carried through the town by the men. The famous festival Bajrayogini Fair is celebrated in Full-Moon Day. Inside the temple, the god is of red color having three eyes.


Siti Jatra

The Siti Jatra takes place on the 21st of
Jeth Jeṭh (Shahmukhi: ; Gurmukhi: ) is a third month of the Punjabi calendar and the Nanakshahi calendar, which governs the activities within Sikhism. This month coincides with Jyeshtha in the Hindu calendar and the Indian national calendar, and Ma ...
, on the banks of the Bisnumati, between Kathmandu and Swoyambhunath. The people feast and afterwards divide into two teams to contest a stone throwing competition. The match was once a serious affair and anybody who was knocked down or captured by the other party was sacrificed to the goddess Kankeshwari. In modern times, however. it is a light hearted affair, mostly among the children.


Gatha Mu Ga: or Ghanta Karn

This festival refers to the celebration of the expulsion of a Rakshasa or demon from the country, held on the 14th of
Sawan Sāwaṇ or Sāuṇ (Shahmukhi: ; Gurmukhi: , ) is the fifth month in the Punjabi calendar and the Nanakshahi calendar. Many Indian calendars started in different eras such as Shaka Calendar (national calendar of India) traditional Vikrama a ...
. The Newars make a straw figure which they beat and drag around the streets. The figures are burned at sunset. On the same day people also wear iron metal as a belief to keep themselves away from demons.


Pancha Dan

The festival is celebrated twice a year, on the 8th of Sawan and the 13th of
Bhadon Bhādõ (Shahmukhi: ; Gurmukhi: , ) is the sixth month of the Nanakshahi calendar and Punjabi calendar. This month coincides with Bhadra in the Hindu calendar and the Indian national calendar, and August and September in the Gregorian and ...
. The Banras, priests of the Newar Buddhists visit each house and receive a small offering of grain or rice to commemorate their ancestors who were not permitted to trade. The Newars decorate their shops and houses with pictures and flowers and the women sit with large baskets of rice and grain to dispense to the Banras. it is celebrated at late night.


Janai Purnima

The Janai Purnima also known as Rakshyabandhan festival takes place on the full moon day of Shrawan i.e. Shrawan Purnima every year. In the year of 2080, it falls on 14th of
Bhadra ''Bhadra'' is a Sanskrit word meaning 'good', 'fortune' or 'auspicious'. It is also the name of many men, women and objects in Hinduism. Male Figures King of Chedi Bhadra was a king of Chedi Kingdom who participated in the Kurukshetra War from t ...
. It is celebrated by Hindus and other Hindu related religions like Buddhist, Jain, belonging to aumkaar (ॐ कार) family. The Buddhist bath in sacred streams and visit their temples and the Brahman priests offer an ornamental thread to the wrists of their followers and in return receive gifts. Many pilgrims visit
Gosainkunda Gosaikunda, also spelled Gosainkunda, is a lake in Nepal's Langtang National Park, located at an elevation of in the Rasuwa District with a surface area of . Together with associated lakes, the Gosaikunda Lake complex is in size and was design ...
and bath at the sacred lake. Mainly the people of Brahmin and chettri community change the sacred around their neck.


Nag Panchami

Nag Panchami Naga Panchami (Sanskrit: नागपञ्चमी, International Alphabet of Sanskrit Transliteration, IAST: ''Nāgapañcamī'') is a day of traditional worship of Nāg, ''naga''s (or najas or nags) or snakes (which are associated with the my ...
takes place on the 5th of Shrawan to commemorate the battle between Nag and
Garur Garur is a town in the Bageshwar district of the state of Uttarakhand, India. Administration Garur is one of the subdivisions in Bageshwar district. The subdivisional magistrate office is situated nearby at Purda. Tehsil headquarters are also in ...
. The stone image of Garur at
Changu Narayan Changu Narayan is an ancient Hindu and Buddhist temple, located on a hilltop of Changu (also called Dolagiri) in Changunarayan Municipality of Bhaktapur District, Nepal. The temple is considered to be built in the 4th century AD and is one of ...
is said to perspire during the festival and priests are sent to wipe the perspiration off with a handkerchief. They later present it to the king and water is used to make it into a snake bite remedy, despite the fact that there are few snakes inhabiting Nepal. There is a belief that nag panchami is the day of welcoming the other festivals in the Nepal.


Krishna Janmashtami

Krishna Janmashtami Krishna Janmashtami (), also known simply as Krishnashtami, Janmashtami, or Gokulashtami, is an annual Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Krishna, the eighth avatar of Vishnu. In certain Hindu texts, such as the '' Gita Govinda ...
is celebrated on the 8th of
Bhadon Bhādõ (Shahmukhi: ; Gurmukhi: , ) is the sixth month of the Nanakshahi calendar and Punjabi calendar. This month coincides with Bhadra in the Hindu calendar and the Indian national calendar, and August and September in the Gregorian and ...
, in memory of
Lord Krishna Krishna (; Sanskrit: कृष्ण, ) is a major deity in Hinduism. He is worshipped as the eighth avatar of Vishnu and also as the Supreme God in his own right. He is the god of protection, compassion, tenderness, and love; and is wi ...
. Shops and houses are adorned in celebration.


Losar

Losar or Lochhar is the festival celebrated by Tamang, Gurung, Sherpa and other Himalayan communities of Nepal.
Sonam Lhosar Sonam Lhosar is a New Year's day festival of the tamang people, Tamang and Hyolmo people, Hyolmo people of Nepal as well as Sikkim and Darjeeling regions of India. It falls on the second new moon after the winter solstice which is usually the Mag ...
is celebrated by the Tamangs,
Gyalpo Lhosar Gyalpo Losar is a new year festival of Sherpa people of Nepal and India's Sikkim and Darjeeling. The festival is celebrated on the first day of the Tibetan calendar, which corresponds to a date in February or March in the Gregorian calendar. Gy ...
by the Sherpas and
Tamu Lhosar Tamu Lhosar is a new year festival celebrated by the Gurung people. It is celebrated on every 15th Poush (December/January) of the Nepali calendar and is observed as a public holiday. Similar to the Lhosars celebrated by other ethnic groups such ...
is celebrated by the Gurungs.


Gai Jatra/Saa: Paru

Gai Jatra is a Newar festival held in the month of Bhadra. Newars who have lost loved ones during the year traditionally disguised themselves as cows and danced around the palace of the king. However, in modern times, the ceremony is performed only as a masked dance with the singing of songs. Gaijatra, the festival of cows, (gai means cow and jatra means festival in Nepali: गाईजात्रा, and Nepal Bhasa: सापारु) is celebrated in Nepal, mainly in Kathmandu valley by the Newars. It is also a grand festival in Jumla, celebrated by people of all caste . The festival commemorates the death of people during the year. During the festival, cows are marched in the streets and generally celebrated in the Nepalese month of Bhadra (August–September). It falls on the 1st day of the dark fortnight of Gunla according to the lunar Nepal Era calendar. Peoples also distributes food to others. The festival of cows is one of the most popular festivals of Nepal. The whole complex of Gaijatra festival has its roots in the ancient ages when people feared and worshiped Yamaraj, the god of death. However, the ironic sessions synonymous with the Gaijatra festival entered the tradition in the medieval period of Nepal during the reign of the Malla Kings. Hence, the present form of Gaijatra is a happy blending of antiquity and the medieval era. According to the traditions since time immemorial, every family who has lost one relative during the past year must participate in a procession through the streets of Kathmandu leading a cow. If a cow is unavailable then a young boy dressed as a cow is considered a fair substitute. In Hinduism, a cow is regarded as the most venerated among all the domestic animals. It is believed that the cow, revered as a holy animal by Hindus, will help the deceased relative's journey to heaven. According to the historical evidence, when King Pratap Malla lost his son, his wife, the queen, remained grief-stricken. The king was very sad to see the condition of his beloved queen. The king, in spite of several efforts, could not lessen the grief of his wife. He desperately wanted to see a little smile on the lips of his sweetheart, and so he announced that anyone who made the queen laugh would be rewarded adequately. During the festival of Gaijatra, the cow procession was brought before the grief-stricken queen. Then the participants began ridiculing and be-fooling the important people of the society. Finally, when the social injustices and other evils were highlighted and attacked mercilessly, the queen could not help but smile. The queen laughed and the king instituted a tradition of including jokes, satire, mockery and lampoon into the Gaijatra celebration. After the procession is over, in the afternoon, nearly everyone takes part in another age-old tradition in which the participants dress up and wear masks. The occasion is filled with songs and jokes. Mockery and humor of every kind become the order of the day until late evening. Hence, Gaijatra is a healthy festival which enables the people to accept the reality of death and to prepare themselves for life after death. According to Hinduism, "whatever a man does in his life is a preparation leading to a good life after death".


Bagh Jatra

This festival takes place on the 2nd of Bhadra. Dancers once dressed up in tiger costumes but today it is merely a repetition of the Gai Jatra festival.


Indra Jatra

The
Indra Jatra Indra Jātrā, also known as Yenyā Punhi is the biggest religious street festival in Kathmandu, Nepal. "Ye" means the old Newar people, Newari name for "Kathmandu", "Ya" means “Celebration”, and "Puhni" means full moon so together means the ...
festival begins on the 26th of Bhadra and lasts for eight days. This festival is held in early to mid September and marks the end of the rainy season. On the first day a lofty wooden post is erected before the king's palace or at other Durbar sites and dancers from all across Nepal perform with masks. If an earthquake ever occurred on the opening day of the festival this was considered a bad omen and the festival would have to be restarted. On the third day, young virgins are brought before the king and worshiped and then carried through Kathmandu, mounted on oars. The highlight is parading the Kumari Devi (living god) through Kathmandu on a special chariot built just this purpose. The chariots are parked outside the Kumar Devi's house at the Kathmandu Durbar Square.


Mohani Nakha

Mohani Nakha corresponds to
Dashain Dashain or Bada'dashain, also known as Vijaya Dashami in Sanskrit, is a Hindu religious festival in Nepal, Sikkim, West Bengal, Assam, South India, and Sri Lanka. It is also celebrated by other religions in Nepal and elsewhere, including the Lho ...
and is one of the year's grandest celebrations for the
Newars Newar (; , endonym: Newa; , Pracalit script: ), or Nepami, are primarily inhabitants in Kathmandu Valley of Nepal and its surrounding areas, and the creators of its historic heritage and civilisation. Page 15. Newars are a distinct linguisti ...
. The event involves family gatherings and outdoor functions, and lasts ten days.The Newar People plant Barley seedlings al:Swaon first day of dashain. The seedlings are workshipped and grown for the next seven days. On the day of asthami, the newar families get together and have newari grand feast including varieties of food which is called kuchhibhvaya.On the ninth day avamithere is tradition to slaughter animal's organ to the men of family following oldest to youngest. On the ninth day, is the main day where mohani sinha is prepared by burning lamp all night in a mud saucer ala On the tenth day it concludes dashain ohani Nakhaby receiving tika and the harvested barley seedlings aal:Swafrom elders with blessings and a piece of khokha, a read and white cloth around the neck.


Bala Chaturdasi or Satbyu

This festival falls on the 14th day of the dark fortnight of the month of Kartik or Mangsir (November/December) according to the lunar calendar, One of the most important rituals of Bala Chaturdashi is the Satbij Chharne (sowing of seven seeds). Devotees gather at the sacred Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu and other holy sites to participate in the ritual. They sow seeds of seven different grains (wheat, barley, sesame, rice, maize, millet, and black gram) along the temple premises and in the holy Bagmati River. This ritual is performed early in the morning, before sunrise. Devotees light oil lamps (Diyo) and carry them in processions around the temple. The lighting of lamps symbolizes the dispelling of darkness and ignorance and is believed to guide the souls of the deceased. Taking a holy dip in the sacred Bagmati River or other nearby rivers is considered an essential part of the festival. This act is believed to purify the soul and body, preparing the devotees for the rituals that follow. On the eve of Bala Chaturdashi, devotees stay awake the entire night, singing hymns, chanting prayers, and reciting scriptures. This night vigil, known as Jagaran, is held to purify the mind and body and to seek blessings for the deceased. Bala Chaturdashi is not only a time for individual reflection and rituals but also a time for community bonding. People come together, share food, and participate in the rituals collectively. It fosters a sense of unity and shared spiritual purpose among the participants.


Kartik Purnima

On the first day of the month of Kartik, many women go to the temple of Pashupati. There they remain for an entire month, fasting and drinking only water. Some women have died during the fasting but the majority generally survive and on the last day of the month, known as the ''purnima'', the night is spent rejoicing the success of the fasting by singing and dancing into the night.


Ganesh Chauthi

The Ganesh Chauthi festival is held on the 4th of Magh, in honor of
Lord Ganesh Ganesha or Ganesh (, , ), also known as Ganapati, Vinayaka and Pillaiyar, is one of the best-known and most worshipped Deva (Hinduism), deities in the Hindu deities, Hindu pantheon and is the Supreme God in the Ganapatya sect. His depictions ...
, the god of wisdom. The day is spent fasting and worshipping and in ended by feasting into the night.


Maghe Sankranti

Maghe sankranti is observed in the month of January on the first day of the month of Magh, bringing an end to the ill-omened month of
Poush Poush (; ) is the 9th month of both the Bengali calendar and the Nepali calendar. It overlaps December and January of the Gregorian calendar. It is the first month of the winter season. This month marks the start of Winter (, ''Sheat'') in the Be ...
when all religious ceremonies are forbidden. On this day, the sun leaves its southernmost position and takes off for its northward journey, so Maghe Sankranti is similar to
solstice A solstice is the time when the Sun reaches its most northerly or southerly sun path, excursion relative to the celestial equator on the celestial sphere. Two solstices occur annually, around 20–22 June and 20–22 December. In many countries ...
festivals in many other traditions. People participate in holy bathing in this festival and auspicious foods like
laddoo ''Laddu'' or ''laddoo'' is a spherical sweet from the Indian subcontinent made of various ingredients and sugar syrup or jaggery. It has been described as "perhaps the most universal and ancient of Indian sweets." ''Laddus'' are often serve ...
,
ghee Ghee is a type of clarified butter, originating from South Asia. It is commonly used for cooking, as a Traditional medicine of India, traditional medicine, and for Hinduism, Hindu religious rituals. Description Ghee is typically prepared by ...
,
sweet potato The sweet potato or sweetpotato (''Ipomoea batatas'') is a dicotyledonous plant in the morning glory family, Convolvulaceae. Its sizeable, starchy, sweet-tasting tuberous roots are used as a root vegetable, which is a staple food in parts of ...
es etc. are distributed. The mother of the house wishes good health to all family members. According to
Mahabharata The ''Mahābhārata'' ( ; , , ) is one of the two major Sanskrit Indian epic poetry, epics of ancient India revered as Smriti texts in Hinduism, the other being the ''Ramayana, Rāmāyaṇa''. It narrates the events and aftermath of the Kuru ...
, king
Bhishma Bhishma (), also known as Pitamaha, Gangaputra, and Devavrata, is a central figure in the Hindu epic Mahabharata. He was a statesman and military commander of the ancient Kuru Kingdom. Renowned for his wisdom, valor, and unwavering principles, ...
, who had the power to control his own death, happened to choose to die on the day of Maghe Sakranti. Therefore, it is believed that to die on this day might achieve
Moksha ''Moksha'' (; , '), also called ''vimoksha'', ''vimukti'', and ''mukti'', is a term in Jainism, Buddhism, Hinduism, and Sikhism for various forms of emancipation, liberation, '' nirvana'', or release. In its soteriological and eschatologic ...
, a release from the rebirth cycle.


Basantpanchami or Sri Panchami

Basanta Panchami: A Celebration of Knowledge and Spring in Nepal This day is Basanta Panchami, or Saraswati Puja, a festival that marks the arrival of spring and celebrates the goddess of wisdom, Saraswati, in Nepal. It is a day of joy, devotion, and a fresh start, especially for students and those seeking knowledge. Saraswati Puja, also known as Basanta Panchami, is celebrated in Nepal on the fifth day of the bright half of the Nepali month of Magh. This usually falls in late January or early February according to the Gregorian calendar. The exact date varies each year based on the lunar calendar. In 2024, Saraswati Puja is celebrated on 13 February. On the auspicious day of Basanta Panchami, the entire nation comes alive with festivities. The morning begins with devotees taking a ritual bath and donning yellow clothes, symbolizing the bright and blooming mustard flowers that herald spring. Temples and homes are adorned with marigold garlands, and the sweet fragrance of incense fills the air. The centerpiece of the celebration is the worship of Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge, music, art, and wisdom. Students and scholars gather at Saraswati temples and educational institutions, carrying their books, pens, and musical instruments to seek the blessings of the goddess. It is believed that Saraswati bestows the gift of knowledge and wisdom on this day, making it particularly significant for students. In schools and colleges, special ceremonies are held to honor Saraswati. Teachers and students come together to perform the puja (worship), which involves offering flowers, fruits, sweets, and a special yellow rice known as 'basanta rice' to the deity. The idol of Saraswati is placed on a decorated altar, and the air resonates with the melodious chant of the Saraswati Vandana: या कुन्देन्दुतुषारहारधवला या शुभ्रवस्त्रावृता या वीणावरदण्डमण्डितकरा या श्वेतपद्मासना । या ब्रह्माच्युतशंकरप्रभृतिभिर्देवैः सदा वन्दिता सा मां पातु सरस्वती भगवती निःशेषजाड्यापहा ॥ Translation: "May Goddess Saraswati, who is fair as a jasmine flower, the moon, or snow, who is adorned in white garments and who holds the veena in her hand, who is seated on a white lotus, and who is always adored by Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva, and other gods, protect me and remove my ignorance completely." Importance for Students For students, Basanta Panchami is more than just a festival; it is a day of renewal and hope. They believe that by seeking Saraswati's blessings, they will excel in their studies and artistic endeavors. Books and instruments are not touched before the puja, symbolizing the reverence for knowledge. This day also marks the beginning of a new educational journey for many, as young children are often initiated into learning with the ritual of 'Akshar Abhyas' (the first writing) on this auspicious occasion. Basanta Panchami also signifies the arrival of spring, bringing with it a sense of rejuvenation and joy. The mustard fields turn yellow, and the chirping of birds adds to the festive spirit. In Kathmandu, the Basantapur Durbar Square has become a hub of cultural activities, with music, dance, and traditional performances celebrating the season. Basanta Panchami is a beautiful blend of cultural, religious, and seasonal celebrations in Nepal. It underscores the importance of knowledge, wisdom, and learning while welcoming the vibrancy and renewal of spring. For students, it is a day of deep significance, filled with rituals and prayers for academic success and personal growth. As the chants of Saraswati Vandana echo through the temples and homes, the entire nation comes together to honor the goddess of wisdom and the advent of a new season.


Holi

Holi, known as the Festival of Colors, is one of the most vibrant and widely celebrated festivals in Nepal. It marks the arrival of spring and the victory of good over evil. Holi is celebrated with immense enthusiasm, joy, and togetherness, and it brings people of all ages and backgrounds together in a splash of colors. Holi falls in the Nepali month of Falgun (फाल्गुन), which typically corresponds to February or March in the Gregorian calendar. The exact date of Holi is determined by the lunar calendar and varies each year, as it is celebrated on the full moon day of Falgun, known as Falgun Purnima. Holi's timing in the Nepali calendar aligns with the arrival of spring, symbolizing new beginnings and the triumph of good over evil, making it one of the most significant and joyous festivals in Nepal. History and Mythological Significance The origins of Holi are rooted in ancient Hindu traditions. It is believed to have been celebrated since time immemorial, with references in various ancient Hindu scriptures such as the Puranas and the Dasakumara Charita. The most popular mythological story associated with Holi is the tale of Prahlada and Holika. Prahlada was a devout follower of Lord Vishnu, but his father, the demon king Hiranyakashipu, was opposed to Vishnu and sought to kill Prahlada. Hiranyakashipu's sister, Holika, had a boon that made her immune to fire. She tried to kill Prahlada by taking him into a blazing fire, but instead, she was burnt to ashes while Prahlada emerged unscathed. This event symbolizes the victory of good over evil and is commemorated by the lighting of bonfires on the eve of Holi, known as Holika Dahan. Celebration in Nepal In Nepal, Holi is celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm. The festival typically lasts for two days. The first day, known as Chhoti Holi or Holika Dahan, involves lighting bonfires to signify the burning away of evil. The second day, known as Rangwali Holi, Dhuli, or Fagu Purnima, is the day when people play with colors. The Kathmandu Valley, especially Basantapur Durbar Square, Thamel, and Patan, is the epicenter of Holi celebrations in Nepal. The festivities here are grand, with locals and tourists alike coming together to celebrate. Other regions, such as Pokhara & Baglung, also see large gatherings and vibrant celebrations with national-level celebrity. Holi has a significant impact on tourism in Nepal. The colorful and joyous celebrations attract tourists from all over the world, eager to experience this unique festival. Special events, musical performances, and cultural shows are organized to cater to tourists, boosting the local economy and promoting cultural exchange. Holi continues to be an important cultural and social festival in Nepal. It promotes unity and friendship as people come together to celebrate, breaking social barriers of caste, creed, and age. It also serves as an occasion for families to reunite and celebrate together. Recent Incidents While Holi is generally a time of joy and festivity, there have been some unfortunate incidents in recent years. Accidents and Injuries: There have been reports of accidents due to people driving recklessly during the celebrations. In 2023, there were several minor accidents reported in Kathmandu due to drunk driving and unruly behavior during Holi. Water Balloon Injuries: In some instances, the throwing of water balloons and use of harmful chemicals in colors have led to injuries and skin reactions. Authorities have been advising the public to use organic and safe colors. Large gatherings sometimes lead to stampedes and crowd control issues. In 2022, a minor stampede occurred in Basantapur Durbar Square, causing injuries to a few participants. Holi is a vibrant and joyous festival that holds great cultural and social significance in Nepal. While it brings people together in a spirit of celebration and unity, it is essential to be mindful of safety and responsible behavior to ensure that the festival remains a joyful and memorable experience for all. The influx of tourists during Holi also highlights the festival's role in promoting Nepal's rich cultural heritage on the global stage.


Maghe Purnima

The bathing festival where Newars bathe in the
Bagmati River The Bagmati River flows through the Kathmandu valley of Nepal, separating the cities of Kathmandu and Patan, before flowing through Madesh Province of southern Nepal and joining the Kamla River in the Indian state of Bihar. It is considered ...
. during Magh. On the last day of the month, bathers are carried in a procession in ornamented dolis, lying on their backs with lighted lamps (known as chirags) on their chests, arms and legs. Other bathers bear earthen water pots on their heads, perforated with straws, through which water seeps down to sprinkle passers by. Traditionally the bathers wear green spectacles to protect their eyes from the sparks of the lamps they are in contact with.


Pāhān Charhe

During Pahan Charhe which is one of the festivals in Kathmandu, Luku Māhādev (meaning Mahadev enshrined in the ground) is worshipped and portable shrines containing images of mother goddesses are paraded through the streets.


Ghode Jatra

Traditionally on the 15th of Chait, all horses and ponies belonging to government servants were assembled at the grand parade ground and entered into a race in front of the king and top officials who are stationed around a central monument. The monument bore Sir
Jung Bahadur Jung Bahadur Rana, , was born Bir Narsingh Kunwar (1817-1877). His mother, Ganesh Kumari, was the daughter of Kaji Nain Singh Thapa, the brother of Mukhtiyar Bhimsen Thapa from the prominent Thapa dynasty. During his lifetime, Jung Bahadur eli ...
's statue. After the event, gambling is allowed for two days and nights and the festival ends with an illumination of the monument. In 1875, Bahadur's statue and four dragon monuments were moved into a newly built temple in his honor, hence the location of the festival moved.


Jana Bāhā Dyah Jātrā

Jana Bāhā Dyah Jātrā is the chariot procession of Jana Baha Dyah, the
Bodhisattva In Buddhism, a bodhisattva is a person who has attained, or is striving towards, '' bodhi'' ('awakening', 'enlightenment') or Buddhahood. Often, the term specifically refers to a person who forgoes or delays personal nirvana or ''bodhi'' in ...
of compassion, which is held annually in
Kathmandu Kathmandu () is the capital and largest city of Nepal, situated in the central part of the country within the Kathmandu Valley. As per the 2021 Nepal census, it has a population of 845,767 residing in 105,649 households, with approximately 4 mi ...
. During the festival, the image of Jana Bāhā Dyah is removed from his temple at Jana Baha and installed in a car built in the shape of a tower on wheels. The chariot is drawn through the center of Kathmandu for three days.


Bunga Dyah Jātrā

An image of Bunga Dyah (
Rato Machhendranath Matsyendranātha, also known as Matsyendra, Macchindranāth, Mīnanātha and Minapa (early 10th century) was a saint and yogi in a number of Buddhist and Hindu traditions. He is considered the revivalist of hatha yoga as well as the author of ...
) is placed on a tall chariot which is pulled in stages through the streets of Patan for a month in the longest chariot procession held in the country.


Christmas

Christmas Christmas is an annual festival commemorating Nativity of Jesus, the birth of Jesus Christ, observed primarily on December 25 as a Religion, religious and Culture, cultural celebration among billions of people Observance of Christmas by coun ...
is celebrated by the Christian community in Nepal.


Eid al-Fitr

Eid al-Fitr Eid al-Fitr () is the first of the two main Islamic holidays, festivals in Islam, the other being Eid al-Adha. It falls on the first day of Shawwal, the tenth month of the Islamic calendar. Eid al-Fitr is celebrated by Muslims worldwide becaus ...
is celebrated by the Muslim community in Nepal.


Chhechu

Chhechu is a ceremony of the Tamang communities that takes place to the northwest of the
Kathmandu Valley The Kathmandu Valley (), also known as the Nepal Valley or Nepa Valley (, Newar language, Nepal Bhasa: 𑐣𑐾𑐥𑐵𑑅 𑐐𑐵𑑅, नेपाः गाः), National Capital Area, is a bowl-shaped valley located in the Himalayas, Hima ...
of Nepal over the course of ten days. It contains sportive plays (tsema),
exorcism Exorcism () is the religious or spiritual practice of evicting demons, jinns, or other malevolent spiritual entities from a person, or an area, that is believed to be possessed. Depending on the spiritual beliefs of the exorcist, this may be do ...
s, and rituals. There are eleven tsema performed, and three
exorcism Exorcism () is the religious or spiritual practice of evicting demons, jinns, or other malevolent spiritual entities from a person, or an area, that is believed to be possessed. Depending on the spiritual beliefs of the exorcist, this may be do ...
s.


Yomari Punhi

Yomari Punhi Yomari Punhi is a Newari festival marking the end of the rice harvest. It takes place in November/December during the full moon day of Thinlā (थिंला), the second month in the lunar Nepal Era calendar. Festival Yomari Punhi, meaning ...
is a Newari festival marking the end of the rice harvest. It takes place in November/December during the full moon day of Thinlā (), the second month in the lunar Nepal Era calendar. On this day yomari is made with the rice flour and some stuffing inside which is steamed later. It is celebrated in the name of goddess Annapurna.The fillings inside this dish is mainly condensed milk called "khuwa" and molasses "chaku". According to the myth, a couple suchandra and krita played with flour that gave shape to yomari fortunately all the villagers loved the taste and God Kuber disguised as passer by was also offered the dish which he liked a lot and the couple was blessed richness. The celebration holds special date for newar communities.


Kirat Rai festivals

*
Sakela Sakela (also Sakewa or Sakenwa) () is one of the main festivals of the Khambu (Rai people), an ethnic group indigenous to Eastern Nepal and the Sikkim, Kalimpong, and Darjeeling regions of India. Sakela is celebrated twice a year and is distin ...
is the main Festival of Kirat Khambu Rais this festival is celebrated twice in a year as
ubhauli Ubhauli () is festival of the Kirat communities of Sunuwar, Limbu, Yakkha and Rai of Nepal, India India, officially the Republic of India, is a country in South Asia. It is the List of countries and dependencies by area, sevent ...
in full moon day of the
Baisakh Vaisakha (, ) is a month of the Hindu calendar that corresponds to April/May in the Gregorian Calendar. In the Indian national calendar, Vaisakha is the second month of the year. It is the first month of the Vikram Samvat calendar, Odia calenda ...
and
udhauli Udhauli () is a festival of the Kirat communities of Kirati people specially celebrated by Sunuwar, Limbu, Yakkha, Khambu Rai etc. of Nepal, India and other different countries around the world where these indigenous people (Kirati People) res ...
In full moon day of
Mangsir Mangsir () is the eighth month in the Bikram Samwat, the official Nepali calendar. This month coincides with the mid-November to mid-December of the Gregorian calendar. Important events during this month include: *Mangshir purnima (Full Moon), U ...
* Nwagi is celebrated during prior to eating the harvested food crops, *
Yele Sambat Yelam Sambat (Devanagari: येलम संबत् ) is the lunar calendar used by the Kirat community of Nepal. The Yelam Sambat calendar is named after the first Kirat king Yalambar. The Rais call it ''Yele Dong,'' the Sunuwars call it ''Yel ...
also known as "Yaledong" By Rai People
Maghe Sankranti Maghe Sankranti (, , Nepal Bhasa: ) is a Nepali festival observed on the first of Magh (Nepali calendar), Magh in the Vikram Samvat, Vikram Sambat (B.S) or Yele Sambat, Yele calendar marking the end of the winter solstice and the month of Poush. ...
also celebrate same day. The Yele Sambat calendar is named after the first Kirat king
Yalambar Yalamber or Yalung, Yalambar, Yalamwar, Yalamver ( Nepali: यलम्बर) was a Kirati warrior and first king of the Kirata kingdom in Nepal, which he established in 800 B.C.Kirat Yoyakhha His capital was Yalakhom, present day Kathmand ...
. * Wadangmi Festival: Wadangmi is a Major Festival of Rai Community
Dhankuta Dhankuta ( ) is a hill town and the headquarters of Dhankuta District in Koshi Province in Eastern Nepal. According to 2011 Nepal census, it has population of 26,440 inhabitants. History Until about 1963, Dhankuta Bazaar (the town) was the ...
District celebrated in the month of October/November


Limbu festivals

Some festivals may be practiced within ethnic groups in Nepal. Here are notable
Limbu Limbu may refer to: * Limbu people, an indigenous tribe living in Nepal, Sikkim (India) and Bhutan ** Limbu language, their Sino-Tibetan language *** Limbu script **** Limbu (Unicode block) * Rambahadur Limbu Rambahadur Limbu, (; 8 July 1939 ...
festivals: *
Chasok Tangnam Chasok Tangnam is a festival of the Limbu people The Limbu (Limbu language, Limbu: ) are a Sino-Tibetan ethnolinguistic group indigenous to the Himalayan region of eastern Nepal, northeastern India and western Bhutan. In India, the Limbus ...
- It is also known as udhauli too. It is also celebrated on mangsir's purnima. * Kakphekwa Tangnam or Kusang Tangnam - It is celebrated on maghe sankranti as a new year of limbus. * Sisekwa Tangnam - It is celebrated on Srawan's purnima. * Balihang Tangnam - The Limbu version of the Tihar festival


Other festivals


See also

*
Public holidays in Nepal Nepal uses three official calendar systems, including the Nepal Sambat as the main and national calendar, the Vikram Samvat for Hindu holidays, and the Gregorian calendar for international events and holidays. Public offices and most private bu ...
* National Paddy Day


References


External links


Dashain in Nepal
{{Asia topic, List of festivals in
Festivals A festival is an event celebrated by a community and centering on some characteristic aspect or aspects of that community and its religion or cultures. It is often marked as a local or national holiday, Melā, mela, or Muslim holidays, eid. A ...
Nepal Nepal, officially the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal, is a landlocked country in South Asia. It is mainly situated in the Himalayas, but also includes parts of the Indo-Gangetic Plain. It borders the Tibet Autonomous Region of China Ch ...