Source::Rastriya Samachar Samiti
The traditional Gaijatra festival, also known as the 'Cow Festival,' is currently being celebrated across the Kathmandu Valley and several other regions in Nepal with a variety of lively and humorous events.
Observed over eight days, Gaijatra begins on the first day of the waning moon in the month of Bhadra (Bhadra Krishna Pratiprada) and concludes on Astami according to the lunar calendar.
During this unique festival, participants of all ages dress in eccentric costumes resembling cows and lunatics, parading through the city. This is done to honor and remember those who have passed away in the past year. Bereaved families provide offerings such as fruits, bread, beaten rice, curd, and money to those involved in the procession, including the cows.
The festival's name is rooted in the belief that the deceased, on their journey to heaven, must cross a mythical river by holding onto a cow's tail.
Gaijatra is said to have originated during the reign of King Pratap Malla. To console his queen, who was mourning the loss of their son to smallpox, the king decreed that his people organize humorous and satirical performances. This tradition has evolved into the Gaijatra festival, where people express their views on social, political, and contemporary issues through comedic skits, cartoons, and other forms of satire.
In addition to the Kathmandu Valley, the festival is also celebrated in Banepa, Dhulikhel, Trishuli, Dolakha, Khotang, Bhojpur, Chainpur, Ilam, Dharan, Biratnagar, Birgunj, Bahrabise, Hetauda, and Pokhara. Today, the government has declared a public holiday in the Kathmandu Valley in honor of Gaijatra.
Photo: Hariram Vetuwal/RSS
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