KATHMANDU: The Sakela Udhauli festival, celebrated by the Kirat community, is one of the most significant festivals in their culture.
Known for their deep connection to nature worship, this festival is observed with great pomp and grandeur.
Udhauli is celebrated twice a year, with the festival spanning 15 days from Mangsir Purnima (the full moon of the Nepali month of Mangsir) and extending for a month from Baisakh Purnima (the full moon of the Nepali month of Baisakh).
This year’s Udhauli Sakela celebration began on Sunday at Sano Hattiban in Lalitpur, where Kirat ancestors and religious leaders gathered to offer prayers to nature and mark the commencement of the festival.
The Sakela festival, held biannually, is a time for the Kirat community to honor nature with the hope of ensuring bountiful harvests and protection from famine.
During the celebration, offerings such as roosters, clean roots, alcohol, ginger, yellow rice, and other ritual items are presented to honor the earth and seek blessings for a prosperous year ahead.
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