Kathmandu, August 29: The traditional cultural festival of Gaijatra, celebrated for eight days from the first day to the eighth day of the waning fortnight of Bhadra, is being observed today. On this day, in memory of relatives who have died during the past year, cows or people dressed as cows are taken around their respective localities. Devotees offer milk, fruits, bread, beaten rice, yogurt, grains and money. There is a religious belief that by taking part in the procession, the souls of those who died during the year cross the Vaitarani River by holding onto a cow’s tail.
Historically, King Pratap Malla is said to have started the festival to show his queen, who was devastated by the death of their son, that other people also experienced similar grief. As this did not bring peace to the grieving queen, folklore holds that he ordered people to organize various humorous and satirical performances, giving rise to the tradition of satire and comedy during Gaijatra.
The tradition of taking Gaijatra processions through the former royal palace at Hanuman Dhoka continues to this day. Although Gaijatra is celebrated in various cities across the country, it is particularly vibrant in the Kathmandu Valley.
During the festival, which continues until the eighth day of the waning fortnight of Bhadra, people organize humorous performances, satirical presentations highlighting social ills, dances and musical programs. Songs depicting the sorrowful episodes of the Ramayana are also sung in memory of the deceased.
Gaijatra is celebrated with great enthusiasm in cities with a significant presence of the Newar community, including Kathmandu Valley, Banepa, Dhulikhel, Panauti, Barhabise, Trishuli, Dolakha, Khotang, Bhojpur, Chainpur, Ilam, Dharan, Biratnagar, Birgunj, Hetauda and Pokhara.
Comedians also organize special programs on the occasion. Although the government usually declares a public holiday in the Kathmandu Valley for Gaijatra, this year the festival falls on Saturday, which is already a public holiday.
Login to add a comment