Just after the celebration of Raksha Bandhan, Kwati khaane din, and Janai Purnima, it’s time for Gai Jatra 2082. Gai Jatra, a lively festival honouring Cows, takes place with exuberance in the scenic Kathmandu Valley.
It is a public holiday in Kathmandu only, on Gai Jatra day.
Date
The date for Gai Jatra 2082 is 4th Bhadra, which in the English calendar is 20 August 2025.
Astrologers decide the date concerning the Pratipada(first day) of Bhadra Krishna Paksha, the fifth month of the Lunar calendar.
The festival is observable in Basantapur, old Bhaktapur City, and Patan Durbar Square around Kathmandu.
History
The origins of Gai Jatra, or cow festival, can be traced back to the time of the Mallas, who were the early rulers of Nepal. Legend has it that during the reign of a Malla Queen, who was mourning the loss of her child, the King ordered all citizens to participate in a procession to console her, emphasizing that she was not alone in her grief.
The Malla Dynasty is believed to have initiated the fest. In ancient times, the day was supposedly dedicated to worshipping the god of death- Yamaraj.
Significance Observance
The most adored domestic animal, the cow, is believed to assist a departed person on their way to heaven.
- Gai Jatra is a significant festival, often referred to as the festival of life, death, and rebirth. It imparts valuable lessons about the essence of life, acknowledges the inevitability of death, and prepares us for what comes after life’s journey.
- The festival is dedicated to memorializing the loss of loved ones.
- The existing form of Gai Jatra contains comic acts, parody, drama, and more to ease the suffering.
- There are a lot of hilarious attires and makeup to drive the day even more entertaining.
- Families who have recently lost loved ones lead a calf in the procession. If they don’t possess a calf, kids substitute for cows in a cow-like outfit.
- The cow procession is packed with vibrant colours, popular Nepali music, and dancing.
- Gai Jatra is a solemn theme festival full of amusement and entertainment.
- Cows are worshipped and decorated with red Tika and decorative garlands.
- The cow owners are offered gifts and cash as a symbol of good luck.
The Cow Carnival is a vibrant and captivating Nepali festival with a profound theme. The enthusiasm and liveliness displayed by people on this day make it a joyous and fulfilling celebration. Wishing you a Happy Gai Jatra 2081, filled with happiness and cherished memories!
