Introduction In Kathmandu, the White Karunamaya (Jana Baha Dya or Arya Lokesvara) and in Patan, the Red Karunamaya (Bunga Dya or Padmapani Lokesvara), are commonly referred to as Machhindranath by the general populace. However, this belief appears to be incorrect, as Karunamaya (also known as Avalokiteshvara) and Machhindranath are not the same person or deity. … Read more
Introduction Karunamaya (करुणामय), also known as Lokesvara (लोकेश्वर) or Avalokiteshvara (अवलोकितेश्वर), is one of the most revered Bodhisattvas in Buddhism. He is the embodiment of infinite compassion and is believed to manifest in various forms to guide sentient beings toward enlightenment. The concept of 108 Lokesvara represents different aspects of Avalokiteshvara’s compassion, wisdom, and protection, … Read more
The Significance of Sithi Nakha Sithi Nakha (सिथी नखा) is a festival celebrated at the beginning of the monsoon season, observed annually on Jestha Shukla Shashti (the sixth day of the waxing moon in the month of Jestha), which typically falls in May or June in the Gregorian calendar. Since it marks the onset of … Read more
The Importance of Maghe Sankranti – Ghya Chaku Sahlu Maghe Sankranti, also known as Makar Sankranti, is a festival that marks the sun’s transition into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makar Rashi), signifying the shift from Dakshinayan (southern movement) to Uttarayan (northern movement). This event, which occurs annually on the first day of the Nepali … Read more
Swonti Nakha: The Festival of Lights and Worship in Nepal Swonti Nakha, commonly known as Tihar Festival, is one of the most significant celebrations in Nepal, particularly for the Newar community. The term Swonti originates from the Newar words “Swonu Tithi”, meaning a three-day festival, where each day is dedicated to a unique form of … Read more
The Origins of Nepal Sambat In Nepalese history, determining which official calendar was in use until the Licchavi era remains a challenge. Historians hold differing opinions – some suggest the Shaka Sambat, while others propose the Vikram Sambat, Licchavi Sambat, or Gupta Sambat. Due to the lack of definitive evidence, no consensus has been reached. … Read more
Laxmi Puja: A Cultural and Economic Perspective Nepal is primarily an agricultural country. Due to its favorable climate, rice is the main crop cultivated here. In ancient times, food grains were the fundamental economic resource for any nation. Since rice is the principal crop in Nepal, the month of Kartik (October–November) on Aunshi (औंशी) – … Read more
Dashain: Nepal’s Grandest Festival and Its Celebration in Newar Culture Dashain (दशैं), the most significant festival in Nepal, is celebrated with immense devotion and grandeur across the country. It is a time for family reunions, rituals, and joyous festivities that span ten days in the month of Aswin (September–October). Among the Newar community in the … Read more
The Beginning of Dashain with Ghatasthapana Ghatasthapana (घटस्थापना) marks the auspicious beginning of Navaratri Puja (नवरात्री पूजा), an integral part of Dashain, in Newari Mohani. It is celebrated on the first day of the Dashain/Mohani festival, on Pratipada of the lunar calendar, which falls in the month of Aswin (September–October). Although Dashain is primarily associated … Read more
Indra and His Historical Relevance To understand the practical significance of Indra Jatra, we must first comprehend the true nature of Indra, a figure renowned since the Vedic era. However, this is not a straightforward task. In mythological texts, Indra is described as the king of gods residing in heaven. But where exactly is heaven? … Read more