People Celebrate Gaijatra Festival

 Kathmandu, August 10 – The traditional Gaijatra festival, celebrated annually for eight days from Bhadra Krishna Pratipada to Ashtami, was observed today in Kathmandu Valley and other parts of Nepal.

During the festival, people honor family members who passed away in the past year by parading cows—or individuals dressed as cows—through their neighborhoods. Devotees offer milk, fruits, bread, beaten rice, curd, grains, and money to these processions. According to belief, holding onto a cow’s tail in the procession helps the deceased cross the mythical river Baitarani in the afterlife.

Historical records trace Gaijatra back to the reign of King Pratap Malla. After the death of their son, the grieving queen was consoled by the king, who encouraged citizens to honor their deceased loved ones through similar processions. When this alone did not ease the queen’s sorrow, the king introduced humorous and satirical performances, establishing the tradition of comedy and satire associated with the festival today.

Traditionally, Gaijatra processions pass through the royal palace at Hanumandhoka—a custom that continues. While the festival is celebrated in many cities, it is observed with special grandeur in the Kathmandu Valley.

The eight-day festival includes comedic acts, satirical performances highlighting social issues, singing and dancing, and soulful recitations of Ramayana verses in memory of the deceased.

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