KATHMANDU: From the early hours of Saturday morning, thousands of devotees thronged the Gokarneshwar Uttargaya Pitri Tirtha in northeastern Kathmandu to offer tarpan, siddha daan, and pinda in memory of their departed fathers.
On the occasion of Bhadra Krishna Aunsi, also known as Gokarne Aunsi or “Father’s Day” in Nepal, Hindus believe that performing these rites at Gokarneshwar ensures peace and salvation for ancestors going back as many as 21 generations. The belief, rooted in ancient scriptures, draws massive crowds each year to the sacred temple complex.
Temple priest Jagadish Bhatt explained that devotees believe even the most restless souls of ancestors attain liberation if rituals are performed at this site, said to have been established by Lord Brahma during the Satya Yuga.
The observance is not limited to Hindus. Buddhist devotees also gathered at the site, following their tradition of offering rituals within a year of a father’s death, accompanied by prayers and community feasts. “This is an occasion for Buddhists too, where shraddha and offerings are made for the deceased,” said Buddhist monk Dundup Lama.
Alongside these ancestral rites, Hindus across Nepal also celebrate Kushe Aunsi today by bringing home kush grass, considered a sacred embodiment of Lord Vishnu, for use in religious rituals throughout the year. The day is further observed as Babu Ko Mukh Herne Din (Father’s Day), when children honor their fathers with gifts and special meals.
With spiritual rituals, sacred traditions, and heartfelt family celebrations, Gokarne Aunsi remains one of Nepal’s most significant days of reverence for fathers, both living and departed.
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