9 Jul 2023 3 min to read
In February and March, specifically during the Nepali month of Falgun, several Nepali festivals Shivaratri, Holi, Saraswati Puja are celebrated. These festivals are a representation of the country’s rich cultural and religious diversity. People from different ethnic backgrounds in Nepal come together to observe and follow these festivals, demonstrating unity and harmony among the Nepalese. It is a time of celebration and joy, where individuals celebrate their unique traditions while embracing the cultural tapestry of the nation.
Maha Shivaratri
Maha Shivaratri is a significant Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is celebrated near Shiva Temples across Nepal, with the Pashupatinath Temple being a major attraction for thousands of devotees from around the world. Shivaratri means the night of Shiva and is considered the wedding day of Lord Shiva and Parbati.
During this festival, people observe a night-long fast and participate in rituals, pujas, and Maha Aarti (grand prayers). They worship Lord Shiva by offering sandalwood paste, Bael Patra (leaves), Dhaturo (a flowering plant), fruits, and milk. Many Sadhus (holy men) chant Shiva mantras. As Prasad (blessed food), people enjoy eating halwa-puri (a sweet dish) and drinking bhang (a special drink). Married women worship Lord Shiva for the well-being and longevity of their husbands, while unmarried women pray for an ideal husband like Lord Shiva.
Basanta Panchami/Saraswati Puja
Basanta Panchami, also known as Saraswati Puja, is a special day dedicated to worshipping the goddess Saraswati, who represents knowledge and wisdom. It is a day to welcome the arrival of the Spring season. On this day, people visit Saraswati temples and offer fruits and food as offerings. One interesting tradition is that young children write their names or alphabets on this day. It is believed that writing on this auspicious day helps children in learning more quickly. Basanta Panchami is a joyful celebration that highlights the importance of education and learning in Nepalese culture.
Holi
Holi is the most vibrant and colorful festival in Nepal, marking the beginning of spring. It has many ancient tales and is culturally significant as a triumph over evil. People also call it Phagu, Phaguwa, or Hori. During Holi, everyone applies different colors to their family, relatives, and friends’ faces, splashes water, and throws water balloons.
In Kathmandu, there’s a huge Holi festival around Basantapur Durbar Square. The Newar community follows the tradition of Chir gaadne, setting up a pole, a week before the main festival. Tourists gather to witness and enjoy this celebration. Holi is celebrated for two days in Nepal. The people in the Hilly region celebrate it on the first day, while the people in the Terai region celebrate with great excitement on the next day. They also drink Bhaang/Thandai as a special offering. During these festive days, people have fun applying colors, dancing, and spending time with their loved ones.
