Nepal, a country rich in historical customs and cultural diversity, is home to numerous colourful celebrations that speak directly to the hearts of its citizens. With their rich religious and historical background, these festivities provide a fascinating look into Nepali society. Take a trip with us through the top ten festivals in Nepal, where each occasion is a vibrant display of colours, customs, and a sense of community.
1. Dashain: The Great Festival of Righteous Over Evil
The longest and most important holiday in Nepal, Dashain, commemorates the victory of the goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura. The festival of Dashain, which lasts for fifteen days, is celebrated by honouring the goddess Durga and receiving tika and jamara (blessings and sacred barley grass) from elders. Families join together, and houses are decorated with lucky charms.
2. Tihar : The festival of LIghts
Tihar is a five-day celebration that honours several animals every day, such as crows, dogs, cows, and oxen. It is also known as Deepawali or Yamapanchak. On the final day of the festival of lights, residences are decked out with vibrant rangoli, candles, and oil lamps. The nation is bathed in the warm glow of lights, and a major motif is the adoration of Laxmi, the goddess of riches.
3. The Festival of Colours, Holi
Known as “Fagu Purnima” in Nepal, Holi is a holiday that represents the victory of good over evil and the arrival of spring. People joyfully splatter one other with water and coloured powders, signifying the dismantling of societal barriers. There’s music, laughter, and a sense of community in the air.
4. Indra Jatra: Paying Tributaries to the Living Goddess Kumari and Lord Indra
Indra Jatra, celebrated in Kathmandu, is a vibrant street event that pays respect to Lord Indra, the god of rain. A prominent highlight is the Jagannath Jatra, a parade that includes the goddess Kumari in her incarnation. In addition, traditional music and dances are performed, and a ceremonial pole known as Yosin is erected as part of the celebration.
5. Buddha Jayanti: Honouring the Buddha’s Birth
Buddha Jayanti commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and demise of the historical Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama, and is observed on the full moon day in April or May. When pilgrims go to Lumbini, the birthplace of the Buddha, they participate in processions, prayer, and meditation. The ambiance is calm, reflecting the principles of compassion and peace.
6. Teej: An Honouring of the Sisterhood and Power of Women
Teej is a Hindu holiday mostly observed by women that honours the goddess Parvati. While single women pray for the perfect partner, married ladies fast for the health and life of their spouses. This vibrant event includes colourful clothing, traditional dances, and extravagant feasts.
7. Maghe Sankranti: A Harvest Festival and a Celebration of the Sun
The winter solstice, observed on Maghe Sankranti, represents the lengthening of daylight hours. In addition to eating molasses and sesame seeds for warmth, devotees bathe ritualistically in sacred waterways. With feasts of traditional treats like molasses and sesame seed laddoos, the celebration also heralds the beginning of harvest season.
8. Gai Jatra: The Cow Festival and the Souls of the Departed
Celebrated in the Kathmandu Valley, Gai Jatra is a jovial and colourful event that pays tribute to departed family members. Little boys dress like cows to add humour and excitement to the proceedings as families who have lost a loved one in the past year join a procession. The festival wants to make mourning families’ lives a little easier.
9. Shivaratri: Lord Shiva’s Night
Hindus celebrate Shivaratri, which is devoted to Lord Shiva, with prayers, fasting, and meditation. One of Lord Shiva’s holiest sites, the Pashupatinath Temple, is frequented by devotees who come to seek blessings. Religious fervour fills the temple complex, and an all-night vigil is held in Lord Shiva’s honour.
10. Losar: Nepal’s Tibetan New Year
Losar, the Tibetan New Year, is observed by the Sherpa, Gurung and Tamang population in Nepal. Prayers, traditional dances, and the waving of prayer flags are also part of the festivities. Families gather for feasts and adorn their homes to welcome the New Year with happiness and optimism.
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