This week, the hills and towns were full of happiness and colors because of these celebrations. First, we celebrated Udhauli Parva, a special festival for the Kirat people. It happens when winter begins and farmers finish their harvest. On this day, people go outside to thank nature, the trees, the animals, and their ancestors for giving them a good harvest and food to eat. Everyone dresses in colorful traditional clothes, and people dance together in the Sakela dance. The music, singing, and clapping make the atmosphere very joyful. Children, adults, and elders all join in, laughing, dancing, and celebrating together.
I had a wonderful experience visiting the Kirat Temple in Sano Hattiban, where the festival felt even more special. The temple was beautifully decorated, and the community gathered there to perform rituals, offer prayers, and dance together. Seeing families, children, and elders celebrating with so much energy and happiness made the day truly memorable. The hills and fields around Sano Hattiban looked even more beautiful with all the colors, smiles, and joy of Udhauli Parva.
After Udhauli, I celebrated Yomari Punhi, a festival of sweets celebrated by the Newar community. On this day, families make Yomari, small dumplings made with rice flour and filled with Jaggery and sesame seeds. These sweet dumplings are steamed and shared with friends, neighbors, and family. Everyone eats together, smiles, and wishes each other good luck and happiness. The smell of Yomari cooking in the air and the happy faces all around make this day very special.
Watching both festivals made me feel how much Nepali people love nature, culture, food, and family. There is so much music, dancing, food, and togetherness. These festivals are not just fun they also remind us to be thankful for what we have and celebrate life with loved ones. I feel very happy to see everyone enjoying, dancing, and sharing food. These moments will stay in my heart forever, and I hope everyone gets to experience the joy of these beautiful Nepali festivals.
