KATHMANDU, DECEMBER 4
The country today is observing two major cultural festivals, Yomari Punhi of the Newar community and Udhauli of the Kirant community, both celebrated during the winter season and closely linked with harvest traditions. A public holiday was declared nationwide.
Yomari Punhi, believed to have originated around 400 years ago, is celebrated mainly in the Kathmandu Valley. The festival features Yomari, a steamed delicacy made from freshly harvested rice flour filled with chaku and sesame seeds. The day is also celebrated as Jyapu Day.
Communities in Bhaktapur, Kathmandu, Lalitpur and nearby districts marked the festival with worship rituals in grain-storage areas and fairs at sites including Dhaneshwor (Kavre), Anantalingeshwor (Bhaktapur), Champadevi (Kathmandu), and Shikharbesi and Dupcheshwor (Nuwakot).
The Kirat community, including Rai, Limbu, Yakkha and Sunuwar groups, observed Udhauli, a festival that symbolizes the seasonal migration from higher to lower altitudes. The celebration includes Bhumi Puja to thank nature for the harvest, along with traditional attire, musical processions and the Sakela dance, performed with instruments such as dhol and jhyamta.
Both festivals highlight Nepal's rich cultural diversity and the communities' deep connection with agriculture and nature.
