Kathmandu: The Kathmandu Valley and various other regions across Nepal are celebrating the traditional festival of Gaijatra, marked by a vibrant display of humor, satire, and lively processions.
The eight-day festival, which 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, honors the memory of those who have passed away in the past year.
During Gaijatra, participants of all ages dress in elaborate costumes resembling cows and lunatics, parading through the streets to commemorate the deceased. Bereaved families join in the festivities by offering fruits, bread, beaten rice, curd, and money to the participants and their cow-like counterparts.
The festival’s name is derived from the belief that the deceased, on their journey to the afterlife, crosses a mythical river by grabbing the tail of a cow. The tradition is said to have originated during the reign of King Pratap Malla, who, in an effort to console his grieving queen after the death of their son due to smallpox, ordered the organization of humorous and satirical performances to uplift the spirits of his people.
Gaijatra has evolved into a platform for people to express their thoughts on social, political, and contemporary issues through comic skits, cartoons, and other forms of satire. The festival’s spirit of humor and critique continues to resonate across Nepal.
In addition to the Kathmandu Valley, Gaijatra is observed in Banepa, Dhulikhel, Trishuli, Dolakha, Khotang, Bhojpur, Chainpur, Ilam, Dharan, Biratnagar, Birgunj, Bahrabise, Hetauda, and Pokhara. The government has declared a public holiday in the Kathmandu Valley in honor of the festival today.