KATHMANDU: With the arrival of Tihar, the second major festival of Hindus, farmers in Suryavinayak Municipality-7, Gundu, are busy in picking Makhamali (Gomphrena globosa) flowers and making garlands.
Gundu and Tathali in Bhaktapur are renowned for their Makhamali flowers, which are now in full bloom.
In addition to Makhamali flowers, some farmers are cultivating marigold flowers.
While garlands made from Makhamali flowers are popular and widely sold, marigold flowers are also available in bunches and open forms.
For several years, Makhamali flower cultivation has served as a primary source of income for farmers in this region.
It is claimed that Nepal has achieved self-sufficiency in Makhamali flowers, though red roses still need to be imported for Tihar and Valentine’s Day.
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