KATHMANDU: Gai Jatra is being observed in the country today, especially in Kathmandu Valley, in the memory of deceased family members.

The day, which literally means the festival of cows, is marked by bereaved families taking out processions in memory of the ones they have lost. People, especially children, walk in different kinds of costumes and the processions are also accompanied by traditional bands. Gai Jatra is mainly observed in different areas of the three districts in the valley — Kathmandu, Lalitpur and Bhaktapur.

Gai Jatra derives its name from the Hindu religious belief that the deceased, during their journey to heaven, cross a river by grabbing the tail of a cow. Therefore, most of the people dress like cows while walking in the procession. Bereaved families along with bystanders offer fruits, bread, beaten rice, curd, money among other items to those participating in the procession.

The then King of the Malla dynasty, Pratap Malla, started the festival to console his queen -- who lamented over the death of their son -- by revealing to her that there are many others suffering from the pain of losing a loved one.

Gai Jatra also carries a powerful social aspect. It is marked as the occasion to satirise evil traditions and practices of the society.

The festival, also known as Saa-Paaru in Nepal Bhasa, is mainly observed by the Newar community of the valley, however, there is an increasing participation of other communities as well in the processions. Likewise, Gai Jatra has also crossed the boundaries of the valley and people in some other parts of the country are also seen observing the festival.