Celebrated on the full moon day of Mangsir (November-December), this festival marks the end of the rice harvest and honors various deities, especially Annapurna, the goddess of grain and sustenance.
Yomari is made from rice flour dough, typically filled with a mixture of chaku (molasses) and sesame seeds or khuwa. The preparation of this delicacy is steeped in tradition, where families gather to create yomari together, reinforcing community bonds. The act of making yomari itself symbolizes nourishment and fertility, as the dumplings are shaped to resemble human forms, reflecting prayers for health and well-being.
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The origins of Yomari are rooted in a legend involving Kuber, the god of wealth. According to folklore, Kuber disguised himself as a beggar and tested the generosity of a couple named Suchandra and Krita. Their warm hospitality impressed him, leading Kuber to reveal his identity and bless them with wealth. He instructed them to prepare yomari on the full moon day as an offering to ensure prosperity. This story intertwines yomari with themes of generosity, hospitality, and divine blessings.
During Yomari Purnima, yomari is not only consumed but also offered in rituals to deities as a gesture of gratitude for the harvest. The dumplings are often strung together to form garlands known as "Yomari mala," which symbolize abundance and are worn during special occasions like birthdays. The number nine is significant in these garlands, representing completion and good fortune in Newar culture.
Moreover, yomari is believed to have health benefits, it is said to enhance vitality and fertility. This belief extends to pregnant women, whose families traditionally send yomari as gifts, symbolizing hope for a healthy child. The consumption of yomari during this festival reinforces its role as a symbol of wealth and prosperity within the community.
In essence, yomari transcends its identity as merely a delicious treat; it embodies the spirit of prosperity that defines Yomari Purnima. Through its preparation and consumption, it fosters community ties and celebrates cultural heritage while serving as a reminder of the blessings that come from generosity and gratitude. As families gather to enjoy this sweet delicacy, they partake in a tradition that honors their ancestors and hopes for continued abundance in the future.
Picture Credit- Century Spices & Snacks, Bhaktapur
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