The Kumari festival is a part of the Indra Jatra festival in which the primary purpose is to worship the God Indra. During Indra Jatra, occurring in September, the Living Goddess in all her jeweled splendor travels through the older part of Kathmandu city in a three-tiered chariot made of wood accompanied by Lord Ganesha and Bhairab for three days. Kathmandu celebrates a great festival of Indra Jatra the god of rain is worshiped for good weather and good crops. During another important Hindu festival, Dashain on the "black night" or kalratri, 108 buffaloes and 108 goats are brought to the courtyard of the Taleju temple and tethered to stone pillars. The heads are then severed and taken up to the temple as offerings to Goddess Taleju.
A girl remains the Kumari until she reveals any signs that show her to be human rather than divine. Should a Kumari fall ill, a doctor may be summoned only if the illness is so serious that she is first declared to be no longer a goddess. Under normal circumstances, her days in the god-house come to an end with her first menstruation, but if she turns out to be unlucky, as people say, even a minor scratch that bleeds can make her invalid for worship. She then changes back to the status of normal mortal and the search for a new Kumari begins. she immediately ceases to be regarded as a goddess, goes through final rituals, and hands back her jewels and red attire. The spirit of the goddess is said to have vacated her body. She now returns to her family, after living the life of luxury as a goddess.
Friday, August 13, 2010
MACHHINDRANATH JATRA
Machhindranath, Buddhist deity of water and rain. Revered by medieval kings in Kathmandu Valley as guardian deity of Kathmandu Valley Distinguished as RATO MACHHENDRANATH (red) of patan and SETO MACHHENDRANATH (white) of Kathmandu. Feted in various festivals like BHOTO JATRA and public bathing ritual. The chariot is towed through the streets of Patan by throngs of devotees every day. Each day, it is put to rest in one of the many venerated spots in the city. This goes on for a month until it comes to rest in Jawalakhel and end with the Bhoto Jatra, another major festival, during which the bejewelled ‘bhoto’ of Machhindranath is displayed to the public.
Legend says it was given to a farmer by Karkot Naga in reward for curing eye ailment of his Queen. But it got stolen. After sometime when the farmer was attending Machhindranath festival at Jawalakhel, he saw someone wearing the same vest. A quarrel ensued between the farmer and the man wearing the vest. Karkot Naga was also at the festival in human form. He settled the quarrel and submitted the Bhoto to Machhindranath for safe keeping. From that day on every year the Bhoto is shown to the people assuring them that it is safe.
The longest running chariot festival in Lalitpur recreates this event in hope for good rain. It is known as Bundyo to local Newars. The festival begins with the construction of the chariot in Pulchowk and ends with the Bhoto Jatra festival in Jawalakhel. It is celebrated by Buddhists and Hindus of Newar community by carrying the chariot to different places in the town of Patan.
Legend says it was given to a farmer by Karkot Naga in reward for curing eye ailment of his Queen. But it got stolen. After sometime when the farmer was attending Machhindranath festival at Jawalakhel, he saw someone wearing the same vest. A quarrel ensued between the farmer and the man wearing the vest. Karkot Naga was also at the festival in human form. He settled the quarrel and submitted the Bhoto to Machhindranath for safe keeping. From that day on every year the Bhoto is shown to the people assuring them that it is safe.
The longest running chariot festival in Lalitpur recreates this event in hope for good rain. It is known as Bundyo to local Newars. The festival begins with the construction of the chariot in Pulchowk and ends with the Bhoto Jatra festival in Jawalakhel. It is celebrated by Buddhists and Hindus of Newar community by carrying the chariot to different places in the town of Patan.
CULTURE OF MIDDLE HILLS AND VALLEY OF NEPAL
Kirati: They are decendents of the Kirati's who first formed the kingdom in the Kathmandu Valley. They now mainly live in far eastern Nepal. Kirati people are well known for their courage and bravery and are often recruited into armies abroad like the more famous Gurkhas. The religious text of Limbu is the Mundhum.
Newars: Newars are mainly settled in Kathmandu Valley and in major trading centers throughout the kingdom. They have Mongolian features and their own language and script, Newari, believed to have its origin from Tibeto-Burmans. Hinduism and Buddhism are their main religions. Trade and farming are their main occupations.
Magars: Their origin is basically found in hill regions of western Nepal. Their language, Magar Kura, depicts their affinity to the Tibetan-Burmese tongue and culture. Farming, military service, weaving, hunting, and fishing are their major occupations.
Gurungs: They are mostly settled along the higher slopes of the Annapurna areas and the Kali Gandaki river above the Baglung district. They are farmers of rice and grains and also sheep. They are ethnically related to Magars, Thakalis and Kiratis in eastern Nepal. The Gurung people love music and they have their own language.
Brahmin and chhetris: Two large groups distributed in scattered patterns all over the country, which are considered the two highest castes in Nepal. . Brahmins are believed to have migrated from India while Chhetris are from the present day Khasa people from Khasi. They are divided into two major streams, the Purba and Umai. The Kumain people are of the origin of Kumo, Northern India, and Uttar Pradesh. Their social practices depend upon Hindu religious epics. They speak Nepali, the national language of Nepal and use a script with basis in Sanskrit.
Newars: Newars are mainly settled in Kathmandu Valley and in major trading centers throughout the kingdom. They have Mongolian features and their own language and script, Newari, believed to have its origin from Tibeto-Burmans. Hinduism and Buddhism are their main religions. Trade and farming are their main occupations.
Magars: Their origin is basically found in hill regions of western Nepal. Their language, Magar Kura, depicts their affinity to the Tibetan-Burmese tongue and culture. Farming, military service, weaving, hunting, and fishing are their major occupations.
Gurungs: They are mostly settled along the higher slopes of the Annapurna areas and the Kali Gandaki river above the Baglung district. They are farmers of rice and grains and also sheep. They are ethnically related to Magars, Thakalis and Kiratis in eastern Nepal. The Gurung people love music and they have their own language.
Brahmin and chhetris: Two large groups distributed in scattered patterns all over the country, which are considered the two highest castes in Nepal. . Brahmins are believed to have migrated from India while Chhetris are from the present day Khasa people from Khasi. They are divided into two major streams, the Purba and Umai. The Kumain people are of the origin of Kumo, Northern India, and Uttar Pradesh. Their social practices depend upon Hindu religious epics. They speak Nepali, the national language of Nepal and use a script with basis in Sanskrit.
KUMARI FESTIVAL
"Kumari" means pre-pubescent girl regarded as ‘virgin goddess’ and a source of supreme power by both Hindu and Buddhist. The Goddess Kumari is believed to hold the cosmic power to protect and defend all living beings. In Nepalese community especially, in Hindu, the unmarried girls used to write "Kumari" as a middle name and married women write "Devi" as a middle name; literally the world "Kumari" means a virgin girl in Nepali language Nepal is a multi-religious, multi-ethnic, multi-cultural country. Majority of the people are either Hindu and/or Buddhist.
In each town of Kathmandu valley i.e. Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur there are one Kumari, but the Kumari of Kathmandu is regarded as royal Kumari. The Kumari is selected from the "Shakya" family in Kathmandu. Newars are a sect of people originally belonging to the Katmandu Valley and Shakya is one of the lower and poor clan of Newar caste systemKumari is selected from a large number of contestants from the Shakya clan between the age of four or five. The girl must possess 32 attributes of perfection of the goddess such as free from any disfigurement, virgin with an unblemished body.
The selection of the Kumari ceremony is usually held on the eighth day of Dashain festival and is called Kal-ratri (Dark night). Dashain is one of the biggest Hindu festivals in Nepal that falls in mid October. During the day, many buffaloes are sacrificed and their bloody heads are placed in candlelight in the courtyard of the Taleju temple. At midnight the priests carry the Kumari clockwise around the monstrous heads finally the girl is given the items of clothing and decoration worn by her predecessor. This is how an ordinary four-year girl becomes a Living Goddess, the Kumari.
In each town of Kathmandu valley i.e. Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur there are one Kumari, but the Kumari of Kathmandu is regarded as royal Kumari. The Kumari is selected from the "Shakya" family in Kathmandu. Newars are a sect of people originally belonging to the Katmandu Valley and Shakya is one of the lower and poor clan of Newar caste systemKumari is selected from a large number of contestants from the Shakya clan between the age of four or five. The girl must possess 32 attributes of perfection of the goddess such as free from any disfigurement, virgin with an unblemished body.
The selection of the Kumari ceremony is usually held on the eighth day of Dashain festival and is called Kal-ratri (Dark night). Dashain is one of the biggest Hindu festivals in Nepal that falls in mid October. During the day, many buffaloes are sacrificed and their bloody heads are placed in candlelight in the courtyard of the Taleju temple. At midnight the priests carry the Kumari clockwise around the monstrous heads finally the girl is given the items of clothing and decoration worn by her predecessor. This is how an ordinary four-year girl becomes a Living Goddess, the Kumari.
GADHIMAI FESTIVAL
A Hindu festival in which hundreds of thousands of animals are expected to be sacrificed will go ahead as scheduled in southern Nepal despite protests, organizers said Friday. "We will not stop this centuries-old tradition now. This is our religion, belief and tradition and we will continue with it no matter what," said Motilal Kushwa of the organizing committee.
The Gadhimai festival, celebrated every five years, is attended by many Hindus from India as well as Nepal. More than 200,000 buffaloes, pigs, goats, chickens and pigeons are expected to be slaughtered this year on Nov. 24 and 25. Organizers said they will not bow to "interference" from animal rights and religious groups that have held protests in Katmandu and in the festival area in Bara district, about 100 miles (160 kilometers) south of the capital.
Participants believe that animal sacrifices for the Hindu goddess Gadhimai will end evil and bring prosperity. Many join the festival from the state of Bihar in India, where animal sacrifices have been banned in some areas. Critics say the killings are barbaric and conducted in a cruel manner
Government administrator Taranath Gauram said hundreds of extra policemen have been sent to the area to maintain security and officials do not expect trouble during the festival. Ram Bahadur Bamjan, a Nepalese teenager revered by many as a reincarnation of Buddha, has joined the campaign against the animal slaughter and plans to visit the festival area to appeal directly to participants to stop the sacrifices.
The Gadhimai festival, celebrated every five years, is attended by many Hindus from India as well as Nepal. More than 200,000 buffaloes, pigs, goats, chickens and pigeons are expected to be slaughtered this year on Nov. 24 and 25. Organizers said they will not bow to "interference" from animal rights and religious groups that have held protests in Katmandu and in the festival area in Bara district, about 100 miles (160 kilometers) south of the capital.
Participants believe that animal sacrifices for the Hindu goddess Gadhimai will end evil and bring prosperity. Many join the festival from the state of Bihar in India, where animal sacrifices have been banned in some areas. Critics say the killings are barbaric and conducted in a cruel manner
Government administrator Taranath Gauram said hundreds of extra policemen have been sent to the area to maintain security and officials do not expect trouble during the festival. Ram Bahadur Bamjan, a Nepalese teenager revered by many as a reincarnation of Buddha, has joined the campaign against the animal slaughter and plans to visit the festival area to appeal directly to participants to stop the sacrifices.
CULTURE OF TERAI REGION OF NEPAL
Brahman and raj puts: These people are similar to Brahmin and Chhetris of the middle hills. Their major difference being a high degree of influence from the neighboring North Indian people.
Satars: Tharus and their social life is organized and disciplined. They believe in Hinduism. Dimals, Bodos, Dhangars are agriculturist Hindu. Bodos are settled in an area known as the Mechi Zone and are more known as Mechain people. Dhimals are the Terain counterparts of the Limbus from the eastern Terai, mainly in Jhapa.
Rajbansis: This is a dominant ethnic group of far eastern Terai areas of Jhapa and Morang. Although they follow both Hindu and Muslims religions, they have their own local practices. Farming is their major occupation.
Tharus: They are dark in complexion and have smart, trim bodies. They follow the Hindu religion and their practices are dependent on many typical Aryan practices. Farming and business are their main occupations. Danwars, Majhis and Darais are very similar to Tharus, physically and culturally. Nevertheless, they speak their own languages which are of Sanskrit origin.
Musalmans: There are Muslims migrated from Northern India. They speak Urdu and their social practices correspond with the Muslim religion.Although these above accounts depict a fundamental description of Nepalese ethnic groups, it is difficult to pin point who is "ethnic" and who is "non-ethnic".
Satars: Tharus and their social life is organized and disciplined. They believe in Hinduism. Dimals, Bodos, Dhangars are agriculturist Hindu. Bodos are settled in an area known as the Mechi Zone and are more known as Mechain people. Dhimals are the Terain counterparts of the Limbus from the eastern Terai, mainly in Jhapa.
Rajbansis: This is a dominant ethnic group of far eastern Terai areas of Jhapa and Morang. Although they follow both Hindu and Muslims religions, they have their own local practices. Farming is their major occupation.
Tharus: They are dark in complexion and have smart, trim bodies. They follow the Hindu religion and their practices are dependent on many typical Aryan practices. Farming and business are their main occupations. Danwars, Majhis and Darais are very similar to Tharus, physically and culturally. Nevertheless, they speak their own languages which are of Sanskrit origin.
Musalmans: There are Muslims migrated from Northern India. They speak Urdu and their social practices correspond with the Muslim religion.Although these above accounts depict a fundamental description of Nepalese ethnic groups, it is difficult to pin point who is "ethnic" and who is "non-ethnic".
Thursday, August 12, 2010
HOLI FESTIVAL OF COLOR IN NEPAL
Originally Buddhist, the inhabitants of Kathmandu gradually adopted the Hindu religion which is, today, followed by a majority of Nepalese in the capital. Many religious festivals punctuate the daily life of the city. The Holi festival, which announces the arrival of spring, is certainly the most popular. On this occasion, hundreds of young people invade the streets to throw water and a colored powder called "glutal" at each other. As for the women, they adorn their most beautiful sari to follow the religious procession and to attend the bonfires which announce the end of the Holi festivities.
It is a festival of color. In the season spring we get color so this festival reminds it the season as arrived. We get colorful flowers and plants in spring and that is shown by this color festival. People get entertained by playing color, throwing each other and throwing water balloons. People celebrate this as a means of harmony. Sometimes it gets wild these days, while throwing in force to unwanted. People play with water in friend circle and in neighbour hood. We can buy many powdered color in red/white/pink/green/yellow. Some make black with mobile which is hard to remove later. Young girls are the target to throw such water balloons and color. The ancient Hindu festival of Holi falls on late February or on early March. Allegedly named after the mythical demoness Holika, it is a day when the feast of colors is celebrated. The festival is of a week. However, it's only the last day that is observed by all with colors.
It is a festival of color. In the season spring we get color so this festival reminds it the season as arrived. We get colorful flowers and plants in spring and that is shown by this color festival. People get entertained by playing color, throwing each other and throwing water balloons. People celebrate this as a means of harmony. Sometimes it gets wild these days, while throwing in force to unwanted. People play with water in friend circle and in neighbour hood. We can buy many powdered color in red/white/pink/green/yellow. Some make black with mobile which is hard to remove later. Young girls are the target to throw such water balloons and color. The ancient Hindu festival of Holi falls on late February or on early March. Allegedly named after the mythical demoness Holika, it is a day when the feast of colors is celebrated. The festival is of a week. However, it's only the last day that is observed by all with colors.
SOME FAMOUS FESTIVAL CELEBRATE IN KATHMANDU VALLEY
The valley is situtated at an altitude of 1336 meter above sea level and covers an area of 218 sq miles. The rich tapestry of the culture heritage of Nepal is synthesized in the Kathmandu valley, the home of the ancient and sophisticated Newari culture. The Newars are the indigenous inhabitants of the valley and the creators of the splendid civilizations of its three cities – Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur. The skillfully-built temples and places, delicately-engraves stone and metal images, carved wooden columns and pillars, and the history laden shrines and chaityas of these three historical cities stand testimony to the Newar’s artistic achievements.
Changu Narayan; Situated at the end of a long ridge runs well into the Valley, it is said to have been built by King Hari Dutta in 323 AD and said to be the oldest temple in the Valley. It was listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Monument List in 1979. You can make a day trip and visit also Bkaktapur.
Dashain or Durga Puja; The Dashain festival is the most important festival of the Nepalese. The entire country is in enthusiastic holiday mood at the time of the festival. Dashain is the longest and the most auspicious festival in the Nepalese annual calendar, celebrated by Nepalese of all caste and creed throughout the country. The fifteen days of celebration occurs during the bright lunar fortnight ending on the day of the full moo
Gaijatra;
The festival of "Gai Jatra" (the procession of cows) which is one of the most popular festivals, is generally celebrated in the Nepalese month of Bhadra (August-September).This festival has its roots in the belief that the god of death, Yamaraj, must be feared and hence worshipped.
Ghode Jatra
Ghode Jatra, the Horse Racing Day falls on Darhsa Shrad Aunsi of the month Chaitra (March/April). A grand horse parade takes place at Tundikhel, the central point of the city reputed to have been in the former days the largest parade ground in Asia.
Changu Narayan; Situated at the end of a long ridge runs well into the Valley, it is said to have been built by King Hari Dutta in 323 AD and said to be the oldest temple in the Valley. It was listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Monument List in 1979. You can make a day trip and visit also Bkaktapur.
Dashain or Durga Puja; The Dashain festival is the most important festival of the Nepalese. The entire country is in enthusiastic holiday mood at the time of the festival. Dashain is the longest and the most auspicious festival in the Nepalese annual calendar, celebrated by Nepalese of all caste and creed throughout the country. The fifteen days of celebration occurs during the bright lunar fortnight ending on the day of the full moo
Gaijatra;
The festival of "Gai Jatra" (the procession of cows) which is one of the most popular festivals, is generally celebrated in the Nepalese month of Bhadra (August-September).This festival has its roots in the belief that the god of death, Yamaraj, must be feared and hence worshipped.
Ghode Jatra
Ghode Jatra, the Horse Racing Day falls on Darhsa Shrad Aunsi of the month Chaitra (March/April). A grand horse parade takes place at Tundikhel, the central point of the city reputed to have been in the former days the largest parade ground in Asia.
FESTIVAL OF NEPAL WITH DIFFERENT DATE
Dashain Holidays;
During the month of Kartik in the Bikram Sambat calendar (late September and early October), the Nepalese people indulge in the biggest festival of the year, Dashain. Dashain is the longest and the most auspicious festival in the Nepalese annual calendar, celebrated by Nepalese of all caste and creed throughout the country. The fifteen days of celebration occurs during the bright lunar fortnight ending on the day of the full moon.
Maghe Sankranti;
Maghe Sankranti is the beginning of the holy month of Magh, usually the mid of January. It brings an end to the ill-omened month of Poush (mid-december) when all religious ceremonies are forbidden. Even if it is considered the coldest day of the year, it marks the coming of warmer weather and better days of health and fortune.
Maha Shiva Ratri;
This day is the celebration dedicated to the Lord Shiva which falls on the Trayodashi of the month Fagun (February/March).
During the month of Kartik in the Bikram Sambat calendar (late September and early October), the Nepalese people indulge in the biggest festival of the year, Dashain. Dashain is the longest and the most auspicious festival in the Nepalese annual calendar, celebrated by Nepalese of all caste and creed throughout the country. The fifteen days of celebration occurs during the bright lunar fortnight ending on the day of the full moon.
Maghe Sankranti;
Maghe Sankranti is the beginning of the holy month of Magh, usually the mid of January. It brings an end to the ill-omened month of Poush (mid-december) when all religious ceremonies are forbidden. Even if it is considered the coldest day of the year, it marks the coming of warmer weather and better days of health and fortune.
Maha Shiva Ratri;
This day is the celebration dedicated to the Lord Shiva which falls on the Trayodashi of the month Fagun (February/March).
FESTIVAL OF NEPAL WITH DIFFERENT DATE
Mata Tirtha Snan (Mother's Day) ;
This is one of the widely celebrated festivals that falls on the first month, Baisakh (April/May), of the Nepali Year.It is also called Mata Tirtha Aunsi as it falls on a new moon night.
Buddha Jayanti ;
This day is celebrated to mark the birthday of the Lord Buddha which dates back in about 543 BC.It falls on Jestha Purnima (Full moon night).
Janai Purnima,Rakshya Bandhan,Khumbeshwor Mela Patan;
Janai Purnima is the festival of Sacred Thread. On this day every Hindu ties a sacred thread on the wrist. It is also called Rakshya Bandhan.On this day, there is a big Mela (fair) at Khumbeshwor; Lalitpur.It is again on a full moon night.
Gaijatra;
The festival of "Gai Jatra" (the procession of cows) which is one of the most popular festivals, is generally celebrated in the Nepalese month of Bhadra (August-September).This festival has its roots in the belief that the god of death, Yamaraj, must be feared and hence worshipped.
Shree Krishna Janmastami;
Sri Krishna Janmastami marks the celebration of the birth of Lord Sri Krishna. This festival is also known as Krishna Jayanti or Janmashtami. Lord Krishna is regarded as the 8th avatar or 'incarnation' of Lord Vishnu.It falls on Saptami of Bhadra (August/September).
Indrajatra(Holiday Only in Kathmandu);
This festival falls in the end of Bhadra (August/September). Both Hindus and Buddhists unite to celebrate the festival of Indra Jatra with great enthusiasm.
Ghode Jatra;
Ghode Jatra, the Horse Racing Day falls on Darhsa Shrad Aunsi of the month Chaitra (March/April). A grand horse parade takes place at Tundikhel, the central point of the city reputed to have been in the former days the largest parade ground in Asia.
This is one of the widely celebrated festivals that falls on the first month, Baisakh (April/May), of the Nepali Year.It is also called Mata Tirtha Aunsi as it falls on a new moon night.
Buddha Jayanti ;
This day is celebrated to mark the birthday of the Lord Buddha which dates back in about 543 BC.It falls on Jestha Purnima (Full moon night).
Janai Purnima,Rakshya Bandhan,Khumbeshwor Mela Patan;
Janai Purnima is the festival of Sacred Thread. On this day every Hindu ties a sacred thread on the wrist. It is also called Rakshya Bandhan.On this day, there is a big Mela (fair) at Khumbeshwor; Lalitpur.It is again on a full moon night.
Gaijatra;
The festival of "Gai Jatra" (the procession of cows) which is one of the most popular festivals, is generally celebrated in the Nepalese month of Bhadra (August-September).This festival has its roots in the belief that the god of death, Yamaraj, must be feared and hence worshipped.
Shree Krishna Janmastami;
Sri Krishna Janmastami marks the celebration of the birth of Lord Sri Krishna. This festival is also known as Krishna Jayanti or Janmashtami. Lord Krishna is regarded as the 8th avatar or 'incarnation' of Lord Vishnu.It falls on Saptami of Bhadra (August/September).
Indrajatra(Holiday Only in Kathmandu);
This festival falls in the end of Bhadra (August/September). Both Hindus and Buddhists unite to celebrate the festival of Indra Jatra with great enthusiasm.
Ghode Jatra;
Ghode Jatra, the Horse Racing Day falls on Darhsa Shrad Aunsi of the month Chaitra (March/April). A grand horse parade takes place at Tundikhel, the central point of the city reputed to have been in the former days the largest parade ground in Asia.
DIFFERENT FESTIVAL IN DIFFERENT REGION
CHHAT: This festival is celebrated in terai region in different place. This festival is the most famous festival in terai region and also people worships the god with joyfully and heartly, and also the biggest festival in terai region. This festival is specially worships by married women not unmarried.chhat is one of the most popular festival in terai region so people are buy new types of clothes and sweets and other new equipments that believes that new things helps to bring happy and peace in the family.
If you asked me about chhat festival that why this festival is celebrated than I am unable to explain this festival in briefly but I want to give some information about this .this festival is celebrated for the family and for the happy life, now some also people said that CHHATIMATAHA (mighty god) helps from different problem and also helps in economy background of the family. In this festival there are different types of fruits ,sweets,sugarcan,banana leaf and other types of equipments are needed to worship this god than only god will happy and protect from different problem.
If you asked me about chhat festival that why this festival is celebrated than I am unable to explain this festival in briefly but I want to give some information about this .this festival is celebrated for the family and for the happy life, now some also people said that CHHATIMATAHA (mighty god) helps from different problem and also helps in economy background of the family. In this festival there are different types of fruits ,sweets,sugarcan,banana leaf and other types of equipments are needed to worship this god than only god will happy and protect from different problem.
Tiji Festival in Mustang 2010
Mustang trek lying in the rain shadow of the Himalayas is perhaps the last enclave of pristine Tibetan culture. Forbidden & isolated from the rest of the World it was able to evolve its own distinctive culture and traditional which is so rich & unique. Lo-Mustang, the capital is walled city ruled by religious king. Untouched by modern civilization, life in Mustang goes on as it has for centuries in unhurried pace. A trek into the kingdom of Mustang is an unforgettable experience. Upper Mustang is restricted area of Nepal. Who wish to visit Mustang, Have to pay special permit fee and apply for permit any Gov. Resister trekking agency in Nepal.
The Tiji festival is a three-day ritual known as "The chasing of the Demons" and it is centered around the Tiji myth. Tiji tells the story of a deity named Dorje Jono who must battle against his demon father to save the Kingdom of Mustang from destruction. The demon father wreaks havoc on Mustang by creating a water shortage which, in this extremely arid land, is the most precious life-sustaining resource. Dorje Jono eventually defeats the demon and banishes him from the land.
Tiji is a celebration and reaffirmation of this myth. Throughout the festival the events and story of the myth are re-enacted. The festival is timed to coincide with the end of the dry season (late winter/spring) and ushers in the wetter monsoon season. Tiji comes from the words "ten che" meaning "the hope of Buddha Dharma prevailing in all worlds" and is a spring renewal festival that also celebrates the triumph of good over evil. In 1964 Michel Peissel was the first westerner to observe the Tiji festival. At this time, the Mustang region was still completely closed off to foreigners and he had to obtain special permission from the government of Nepal in order to enter the region. Despite his arrival on the last day of the celebration (he was unaware of the observance of Tiji) the experience left a lasting impression on him. "The scenes I witnessed were so extraordinary and so unexpected that I dared not believe my eyes and even today I have some trouble in believing in the reality of what I saw that day."
The Tiji festival is a three-day ritual known as "The chasing of the Demons" and it is centered around the Tiji myth. Tiji tells the story of a deity named Dorje Jono who must battle against his demon father to save the Kingdom of Mustang from destruction. The demon father wreaks havoc on Mustang by creating a water shortage which, in this extremely arid land, is the most precious life-sustaining resource. Dorje Jono eventually defeats the demon and banishes him from the land.
Tiji is a celebration and reaffirmation of this myth. Throughout the festival the events and story of the myth are re-enacted. The festival is timed to coincide with the end of the dry season (late winter/spring) and ushers in the wetter monsoon season. Tiji comes from the words "ten che" meaning "the hope of Buddha Dharma prevailing in all worlds" and is a spring renewal festival that also celebrates the triumph of good over evil. In 1964 Michel Peissel was the first westerner to observe the Tiji festival. At this time, the Mustang region was still completely closed off to foreigners and he had to obtain special permission from the government of Nepal in order to enter the region. Despite his arrival on the last day of the celebration (he was unaware of the observance of Tiji) the experience left a lasting impression on him. "The scenes I witnessed were so extraordinary and so unexpected that I dared not believe my eyes and even today I have some trouble in believing in the reality of what I saw that day."
SOME FAMOUS FESTIVAL CELEBRATE IN KATHMANDU VALLEY
The valley is situtated at an altitude of 1336 meter above sea level and covers an area of 218 sq miles. The rich tapestry of the culture heritage of Nepal is synthesized in the Kathmandu valley, the home of the ancient and sophisticated Newari culture. The Newars are the indigenous inhabitants of the valley and the creators of the splendid civilizations of its three cities – Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur. The skillfully-built temples and places, delicately-engraves stone and metal images, carved wooden columns and pillars, and the history laden shrines and chaityas of these three historical cities stand testimony to the Newar’s artistic achievements.
Changu Narayan; Situated at the end of a long ridge runs well into the Valley, it is said to have been built by King Hari Dutta in 323 AD and said to be the oldest temple in the Valley. It was listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Monument List in 1979. You can make a day trip and visit also Bkaktapur.
Dashain or Durga Puja; The Dashain festival is the most important festival of the Nepalese. The entire country is in enthusiastic holiday mood at the time of the festival. Dashain is the longest and the most auspicious festival in the Nepalese annual calendar, celebrated by Nepalese of all caste and creed throughout the country. The fifteen days of celebration occurs during the bright lunar fortnight ending on the day of the full moo
Gaijatra;
The festival of "Gai Jatra" (the procession of cows) which is one of the most popular festivals, is generally celebrated in the Nepalese month of Bhadra (August-September).This festival has its roots in the belief that the god of death, Yamaraj, must be feared and hence worshipped.
Ghode Jatra
Ghode Jatra, the Horse Racing Day falls on Darhsa Shrad Aunsi of the month Chaitra (March/April). A grand horse parade takes place at Tundikhel, the central point of the city reputed to have been in the former days the largest parade ground in Asia.
Changu Narayan; Situated at the end of a long ridge runs well into the Valley, it is said to have been built by King Hari Dutta in 323 AD and said to be the oldest temple in the Valley. It was listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Monument List in 1979. You can make a day trip and visit also Bkaktapur.
Dashain or Durga Puja; The Dashain festival is the most important festival of the Nepalese. The entire country is in enthusiastic holiday mood at the time of the festival. Dashain is the longest and the most auspicious festival in the Nepalese annual calendar, celebrated by Nepalese of all caste and creed throughout the country. The fifteen days of celebration occurs during the bright lunar fortnight ending on the day of the full moo
Gaijatra;
The festival of "Gai Jatra" (the procession of cows) which is one of the most popular festivals, is generally celebrated in the Nepalese month of Bhadra (August-September).This festival has its roots in the belief that the god of death, Yamaraj, must be feared and hence worshipped.
Ghode Jatra
Ghode Jatra, the Horse Racing Day falls on Darhsa Shrad Aunsi of the month Chaitra (March/April). A grand horse parade takes place at Tundikhel, the central point of the city reputed to have been in the former days the largest parade ground in Asia.
MAIN FESTIVALS OF NEPAL
When we are talking about festival of Nepal than I would like to express the different types of festival celebrating in Nepal. So, firstly I would like to express my felling and some information about DASHAIN and TIHAR. The best part about the festivals in Nepal is that all the events are celebrated with the same enthusiasm and galore the way it used to be hundreds of years ago when people had no other means of entertainment.
Dashain (Bijaya Dashami): During the month of Kartik (late September and early October), the Nepalese people indulge in the biggest festival of the year, Dashain. Dashain is the longest and the most auspicious festival in the Nepalese annual calendar, celebrated by Nepalese of all caste and creed throughout the country. The fifteen days of celebration occurs during the bright lunar fortnight ending on the day of the full moon. Thorough out the kingdom of Nepal the goddess Durga in all her manifestations are worshiped with innumerable pujas, abundant offerings and thousands of animal sacrifices for the ritual holy bathing, thus drenching the goddess for days in blood. Read more about Dashain Festival.In this festival all neplease share their happiness and sadness’ among them and enjoy this festival happily.
TIHAR (The Festival of Lights):
Tihar, the Nepalese festival, is compared by many with the Deepawali festival of India. The purpose of celebration is to worship Goddess Laxmi. According to Hindu scriptures, Laxmi is the Goddess of Wealth. The devotees lit oil lamps and candles to illuminate their homes. Kathmandu dons the look of a sparkling diamond on Tihar. The festival is celebrated for five days beginning from the thirteenth day of the waning moon in the month of October.
Dashain (Bijaya Dashami): During the month of Kartik (late September and early October), the Nepalese people indulge in the biggest festival of the year, Dashain. Dashain is the longest and the most auspicious festival in the Nepalese annual calendar, celebrated by Nepalese of all caste and creed throughout the country. The fifteen days of celebration occurs during the bright lunar fortnight ending on the day of the full moon. Thorough out the kingdom of Nepal the goddess Durga in all her manifestations are worshiped with innumerable pujas, abundant offerings and thousands of animal sacrifices for the ritual holy bathing, thus drenching the goddess for days in blood. Read more about Dashain Festival.In this festival all neplease share their happiness and sadness’ among them and enjoy this festival happily.
TIHAR (The Festival of Lights):
Tihar, the Nepalese festival, is compared by many with the Deepawali festival of India. The purpose of celebration is to worship Goddess Laxmi. According to Hindu scriptures, Laxmi is the Goddess of Wealth. The devotees lit oil lamps and candles to illuminate their homes. Kathmandu dons the look of a sparkling diamond on Tihar. The festival is celebrated for five days beginning from the thirteenth day of the waning moon in the month of October.
Festivals in Nepal
We are happy to announce the NEPAL FESTIVAL 2010 on the eve of Nepal Tourism Year 2011. One main objective of this festival is to have fun. We will provide a wide variety of enjoyable activities for the participants and visitors. A second main objective is to promote friendship with local Americans, sharing information, talents, food, and culture.
Nepal is not only the land of mountains; it is also the land of festivals. There are more than 50 festivals celebrated in Nepal every year. While the national festivals have fixed dates, religious festivals are set by astrologers following the lunar calendar. The best part about the festivals in Nepal is that all the events are celebrated with the same enthusiasm and galore the way it used to be hundreds of years ago when people had no other means of entertainment.
The venue is within walking distance of downtown Oakland and is accessible by public transportation, including BART and more than 10 bus lines, such as 1, 1R, 63, 14, 88, 26, and 15. Some of the salient features of the festival are live concerts and cultural dances, Slides and video shows, a Nepali and international food festival, a children’s program, and a trade fair. There are also very attractive raffle prizes, trophies, medals, and certificates for winners and participants in talent competitions. The proceeds will go various charitable projects like Lions Eye Hospital and Children Home in Nepal, Curry without Worry (Free Food Program for the hungry), and Youth Leadership Promotion in California. It will be a wonderful time for adults and youth alike. We invite you and your family and friends.
Nepal is not only the land of mountains; it is also the land of festivals. There are more than 50 festivals celebrated in Nepal every year. While the national festivals have fixed dates, religious festivals are set by astrologers following the lunar calendar. The best part about the festivals in Nepal is that all the events are celebrated with the same enthusiasm and galore the way it used to be hundreds of years ago when people had no other means of entertainment.
The venue is within walking distance of downtown Oakland and is accessible by public transportation, including BART and more than 10 bus lines, such as 1, 1R, 63, 14, 88, 26, and 15. Some of the salient features of the festival are live concerts and cultural dances, Slides and video shows, a Nepali and international food festival, a children’s program, and a trade fair. There are also very attractive raffle prizes, trophies, medals, and certificates for winners and participants in talent competitions. The proceeds will go various charitable projects like Lions Eye Hospital and Children Home in Nepal, Curry without Worry (Free Food Program for the hungry), and Youth Leadership Promotion in California. It will be a wonderful time for adults and youth alike. We invite you and your family and friends.
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