Navin Shakya

festivals

Yomari festival

In the chilly winter months of the Kathmandu Valley, steam rises from brass pots in traditional Newa homes, carrying the sweet aroma of molasses and rice flour. They are making Yomari (Yamari)…
Dashain vacation

Every year, a group of my friends comes up with an ambitious trekking plan for the long Dashain vacation. It’s become a bit of a tradition: mountains, trails and endless stories around…
Kumari, the living goddess

The Kumari is believed to be the incarnation of Taleju, revered as a protector of the land. The practice solidified during the Malla dynasty, particularly under King Jayaprakash Malla, who is credited…
Dashain exodus

Dashain is Nepal’s biggest festival, known for bringing families together and celebrating cultural traditions. It’s not just a religious event, but an important social occasion where people reconnect with their loved ones.…
Being a temporary vegetarian

I am part of the Newa community in the Kathmandu Valley, known for its rich fusion of flavors, history, and cultural practices in its cuisine. Buffalo meat is a staple ingredient. In…
Displeasing dinner

Achar Ghar, located in Pulchowk, Lalitpur, is one of my favourite places for Thakali Khana for their unique servings of different variety of achar (pickles). So, I decided to take my wife…
Kartik Nach of Patan

Kartik Nach, a traditional dance-drama performed in Lalitpur, takes place on a public platform in front of the seventeenth-century Patan Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and has been continuing for…
Mha Puja of Tihar

Mha Puja, celebrated on the fourth day of Tihar by the Newacommunity of Nepal, is a unique ritual dedicated to self-purification and renewal. It is believed to cleanse the body and spirit…
Overlooked cleanliness

Bhoto Jatra marks the final day of the festival of Bungadya (Rato Machhendranath), one of the most important cultural events in the city of Lalitpur. On this special day, thousands of people…
That is not education

Basantapanchami marks the arrival of spring season and bids goodbye to freezing winter. It is also a day to worship the goddess of learning, Saraswati. Traditionally, this day is seen as the perfect…