Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has extended his greetings on the occasion of Gaijatra festival. In a message shared on social media today, he also expressed wishes for the bereaved families celebrating Gaijatra to find comfort and relief from their grief soon.
PM Oli stated, “May the families who celebrate Gaijatra as a cultural tradition find their sorrow eased soon. May those who observe this festival in the spirit of satire and humor enjoy healthy entertainment. Heartfelt greetings to all on the occasion of Gaijatra!”
He noted that Gaijatra, which began as a Newar tradition during the medieval period, started being celebrated nationwide during the reign of King Pratap Malla. “The practice of families in mourning organizing Gaijatra processions from their homes began as a way to convey the comforting psychological message that death is universal and touches every family. The festival was initiated with the aim of easing the fear of death and lessening grief through social psychology,” the Prime Minister’s message read. “Over time, this festival has transformed into one marked by humor and satire.”
The traditional cultural festival Gaijatra, observed annually from Bhadra Krishna Pratipada to Ashtami for eight days, is being celebrated across the country today with various events in the Kathmandu Valley.
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