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festivals
For an outsider to truly experience Mohni, s/he has to be invited by a Newar to their home. Over the years, due to its close celebratory proximity to Dashera, the grand festival of India, it was also considered Dashain- the Nepali rendition of Dashera. But, in reality, Mohni features a few similar elements brought by migrants from the south. Apart from this, the customs and traditions are completely different.
In this edition, we look into the moving temple of Bhaktapur. Commonly referred to as Biska Jatra, it is a unique celebration exclusive to the principalities of Bhaktapur. Celebrated with utmost veneration and respect, it overtime has become an intangible landmark. The highlights are the tug-of-war, vermilion festival and the tongue piercing ceremony.
Every temple has a story. Within it lies a deity who has provided some boon to its devotees. His/her celebration is an act of acknowledging their righteous act and reliving history. The Newars added pomp and flare to this celebration with mammoth chariots, traditional tunes and communal merrymaking.
Even though an imitation, over the years, the festival of Seto Matsyendranath has created its own identity. It has developed various symbols and is a timeless heritage of Kathmandu. Today it is known as Jana Baha Dyo (God of Jana Bahal of Ket twah). The idol is viewed as Aryavalokiteswara (God of compassion) by devotees.
Commonly referred to as Sindoor Jatra, it is also known as Biska Jatra of Thimi. It is one of the most vibrant festivals celebrated in Kathmandu Valley. The highlight is the ceremonial use of vermilion powder which adds a new layer of pomp and flair. The locals rejoice for four days during the new year period, devotees offer prayers and worship various gods and goddesses.
Yomari Punhi, a Newari festival in Nepal is celebrated every year by Newari Communities marking the end of the rice harvest during the full moon day of November/December. It is said that eating Yomari or Yamari, a steamed dumpling made with rice flour with sweet such as Chaku inside takes away the cold.
