Kathmandu: The Yomari Punhi (Yomari Poornima) and Udhauli festivals are being observed across Nepal, showcasing cultural diversity and deep-rooted traditions on December 4.
The celebrations this year also saw the active participation of government representatives, including Kathmandu Metropolitan City Deputy Mayor Sunita Dangol.
Deputy Mayor Dangol attended a programme organised by the Jyapu Culture Development Trust on the occasion of the 22nd Jyapu Day. Addressing the gathering, she stressed that the protection and promotion of the identity and existence of the Jyapu community is a responsibility of the government.
She further noted that Jyapu Day should reflect the deep-rooted heritage of the indigenous Jyapu people.
According to her, the festival demonstrates the hard work and cultural distinctiveness of the community. “Yomari is not only a food item but a symbol of our prosperity, fertility, and family unity. Jyapu Day and this festival are true identity, beyond tradition,” she remarked.
Yomari Poornima, celebrated mainly by the Newar community, is believed to have begun around 400 years ago. The festival is marked by the preparation of yomari, a rice-flour delicacy filled with molasses, and is also observed as Jyapu Day, honouring the contributions of the Jyapu community to society.
Meanwhile, the Kirant community is celebrating Udhauli, a festival that expresses gratitude for a good harvest through worship of soil and nature. Rai, Limbu, Sunuwar, and Yakhya communities participate in various rituals to uphold their ancestral customs and connection to the land.
Speaking at the programme, Chairperson of the Trust, Mangal Krishna Singh, highlighted Nepal’s rich cultural heritage, stating that many traditions deserve recognition on the World Heritage List. He noted that original music, festivals, and traditional worship practices have played significant roles in preserving these heritages.
Additionally, Prime Minister Sushila Karki, Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal, and other high-ranking officials were also present at the event held in Basantapur Durbar Square.
To honour these important cultural occasions, the federal government further announced a nationwide public holiday.
Here are some photographs observing the celebration:
