KATHMANDU, AUGUST 31

The Gaura festival was observed at Tundikhel, Kathmandu, on Sunday with vibrant performances of the traditional Deuda dance and cultural processions.

People originally from Sudurpaschim and Karnali provinces, now residing in the federal capital for study, employment, or business, gathered in large numbers to celebrate the festival with great enthusiasm.

The celebration, organized by the Prashansha Conservation Group, featured devotees performing the Deuda dance while carrying the idol of Gaura Mata (Goddess Parvati) on their heads.

The festivities also included other traditional dances such as the Chaliya and Hudke dances, along with traditional games like Thado Khel.

The Gaura festival commemorates the marriage of Gaura Mata (Parvati) and Maheshwor (Lord Shiva). It is celebrated in the Nepali month of Bhadra according to the lunar calendar. When the festival falls during the waxing phase of the moon, it is called Ujjyali, while during the waning phase it is known as Adhyari.

In recent years, the scale of Gaura festival celebrations in Kathmandu has grown significantly, reflecting the increasing population of people from Sudurpaschim and Karnali who have settled in the capital. The festival has been observed in Kathmandu since 2052 BS, with Tundikhel serving as its regular venue ever since.

Gaura Festival at NC President Deuba's Residence

Meanwhile, Nepali Congress President and former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba marked the Gaura festival at his residence in Budhanilakantha, Kathmandu, on Sunday.

An idol of Goddess Gaura was installed and worshipped by President Deuba and his spouse, Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba, the Minister for Foreign Affairs.

The celebration also featured a Deuda dance performed with the participation of federal ministers, lawmakers, and the Chief Minister of Sudurpaschim Province.

(With inputs from Rastriya Samchar Samiti)