12 Jul 2023 4 min to read
Nepal is a unique country known for its rich diversity. It is home to people of different races, religions, languages, and cultures, making it a truly special place. The various ethnic communities in Nepal have their distinct customs, traditions, and rituals, which they actively practice. They come together to celebrate numerous Jatras in Nepal, each following their own cultural and religious beliefs. This harmonious coexistence and respect for one another’s cultures and traditions are rare qualities found in Nepal.
One fascinating aspect of Nepal is that it observes its festivals (Jatras) based on two official national calendars: the Bikram Sambat (Nepali lunisolar calendar) and the Nepal Sambat (used by the Newar ethnic group). As per the latest census in 2021, Nepal is home to 124 languages, 142 ethnic groups, and 10 religions, showcasing its incredible diversity. Let’s take a closer look at these Great Nepali festivals:
Ghode Jatra (March/April)
Ghode Jatra is a horse parade festival held in Tundikhel, Kathmandu. The Nepal Army organizes horse competitions and parades during this event. It’s a celebration of victory over an evil demon. People worship different deities and offer offerings at Tundikhel to mark the occasion.
The Newar community celebrates Pahan Charhe , which is a significant festival for them. They invite their relatives and other community members to join them for a big feast and joyful celebrations. It takes place on the Chaitra Shukla Chaturdashi (Chilla tithi, 5th month of Nepal Sambat), the day before Ghode Jatra.
Seto Machhindranath Jatra (March/April)
Seto Machhindranath, a respected deity in Kathmandu, is worshipped by both Buddhists and Hindus. The Seto Machhindranath Jatra is a 3-day chariot festival that takes place on the 8th day of Chaitra Shukla Ashtami. The festival aims to protect against diseases like cholera and smallpox. Symbolizing righteousness, the earth, and the spiritual realm, the festival involves carrying the idol of Seto Machhindranath on a palanquin during a chariot procession. The procession begins at Machhindra Bahal, passes through Jamal, ends at Lagan Tole. The idol of Seto Machhindranth is returned to its original location Jana Bahal the next day.
Bisket Jatra (April/May)
Bisket Jatra is a well-known and vibrant chariot festival celebrated in Bhaktapur City. It represents triumph over negativity. It is celebrated for 8/9 days and starts on the 1st of Baisakh. Baisakh 1st also marks the Nepali New Year. The people of Bhaktapur enthusiastically participate in this festival, which involves the construction of a ceremonial pole, a grand chariot procession featuring Bhairava idols, and rituals like tongue-piercing and Sindoor Jatra (vermillion ceremonies). The festivities are filled with music, dance, colorful celebrations, worship of idols, and temple visits. It’s a time when cherished memories are made and shared.
Rato Machhindranath Jatra (April/May)
Rato Machhindranath Jatra is a grand chariot festival celebrated in Patan, known as the longest Newari festival. The Newari community calls it ‘Bung Dya: Jatra’. The festival is dedicated to the worship of the deity Rato Machhindranath, who is believed to bring good rainfall and a bountiful rice harvest. The chariot procession travels through the streets of Patan, with numerous people joyfully pulling the chariots. The festival concludes with the display of Bhoto Jatra, a traditional vest, on an auspicious date as advised by astrologers. It’s a vibrant celebration of nature’s blessings and cultural traditions. It is celebrated on the 4th day of the bright moon night, tithi Baachhala (7th month of Nepal Sambat).
Gai Jatra (July/August)
Gai Jatra, also known as ‘Sa Paru’, is a Newari festival celebrated in the Kathmandu Valley to remember deceased family members. It is celebrated on the Shukla Pakshya of Bhadra Pratipada. Children dress up as cows and parade the streets in the morning. Locals and relatives offer fruits, sweets, and other food items to ensure the children don’t go hungry during the parade. This tradition has been passed down through generations. Gai Jatra is a significant festival that brings families together to honor their loved ones and provide support to those who are grieving.
Indra Jatra (August/September)
Indra Jatra is a significant festival celebrated by the Newar community in Kathmandu Valley. It is dedicated to the God Indra, associated with rain and harvest. The festival, also known as ‘Yenya‘, lasts for eight days and begins with the setup of Indradhoj Lingam called Ya-Sheen. During the festival, people light diyo (oil lamps) in memory of their deceased family members, a practice called ‘Upaagu Wonegu’.
The festivities include masked dances, Lakhey dances, Bhairava idol displays, and a chariot procession of the Living Goddess Kumari. Traditional instruments are played, and the festival concludes with the taking-down of Ya-Sheen. It starts in the month of Bhadra Shuka Dwadashi and ends in Bhadra Krishna Chaturthi (Nepali calendar), and Yanla tithi (11th month) according to the Nepali Sambat.
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