Join us as we embark on a journey. We will discover the traditions, customs, and legends that make Tihar a truly captivating and unforgettable experience. Let the lights guide us through the enchanting streets of Nepal. Immerse ourselves in the magic of the Tihar Festival.

Significance and History of the Tihar Festival

Tihar Festival, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most important festivals in Nepal. It is celebrated in the month of Kartik, which usually falls in October or November, and lasts for five days. The festival holds great religious and cultural significance for the people of Nepal. It is believed to bring prosperity, happiness, and good fortune. The history of Tihar dates back to ancient times, and it has its roots in Hindu mythology.

According to legends, the festival is associated with various deities and has different stories behind its origin. One of the most popular legends is that of Lord Ram. He returned to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana. The people of Ayodhya celebrated his homecoming by lighting lamps and decorating the city with flowers and colorful rangolis. This tradition of lighting lamps continues to this day and is an integral part of the Tihar Festival.

The festival is also associated with the worship of Goddess Laxmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth and prosperity. It is believed that during Tihar, Goddess Laxmi visits every household, and people light lamps and candles to welcome her. The festival is also a time to honor and worship various animals. These include crows, dogs, cows, and oxen. They are considered sacred in Hindu mythology. Each day of Tihar has its own significance and rituals, which we will explore in the following sections.

Five days of the Tihar Festival

Day 1: Kag Tihar – Celebrating crows

The first day of the Tihar Festival is known as Kag Tihar or Crow Puja. On this day, people wake up early in the morning and offer food to crows. Crows are considered messengers of death and are believed to have a special connection with Yama, the god of death. By feeding crows, people believe that they are appeasing Yama and ensuring the well-being of their departed loved ones.

The food offerings are usually placed on rooftops or in open spaces. People watch as crows descend to eat the food. It is believed that if the crows eat the food without any hesitation, it is a good omen. This ritual is performed with great devotion and reverence. People believe it brings good luck and blessings to the household.

Day 2: Kukur Tihar – Honoring dogs

The second day of the Tihar Festival is dedicated to dogs, which are considered loyal and faithful companions. On this day, dogs are worshipped and honored for their role in guarding homes and protecting their owners. People decorate dogs with garlands of flowers. They apply tika (a red mark) on their foreheads. They also offer them delicious food and treats. The dogs are treated with utmost love and respect, and their loyalty is acknowledged and appreciated.

This day is also an opportunity to raise awareness about animal welfare. It highlights the importance of treating animals with kindness and compassion. It is a heartwarming sight to see dogs being showered with love and affection on this special day.

Day 3: Gai Tihar and Laxmi Puja – Worshiping cows and Goddess Laxmi

The third day of the Tihar Festival is dedicated to cows, which are considered sacred in Hindu mythology. Cows are worshipped as a symbol of wealth, abundance, and fertility. On this day, cows are adorned with garlands, painted with vibrant colors, and worshipped with flowers, incense, and lamps. People offer them fresh grass, grains, and sweets as a gesture of gratitude for their milk. The milk is considered a vital source of nourishment.

After worshipping cows, people also perform Laxmi Puja, where they worship Goddess Laxmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. The puja involves lighting lamps and candles, offering prayers, and performing rituals to seek the blessings of Goddess Laxmi. It is believed that by appeasing Goddess Laxmi, one can attain prosperity, success, and abundance in life.

Day 4: Govardhan Puja and Mha Puja – Worshiping Lord Krishna and self

The fourth day of the Tihar Festival is dedicated to Govardhan Puja, which is associated with Lord Krishna. According to mythology, Lord Krishna lifted the Govardhan Hill to protect the people of Vrindavan from torrential rains and floods. On this day, people create small mounds of cow dung. They decorate them with flowers and colors to symbolize Govardhan Hill.

They offer prayers and perform rituals to honor Lord Krishna and seek his blessings. This day is also known as Mha Puja, which means self-worship. People worship themselves on this day, considering the body as a temple and the soul as the divine presence within. It is a time for self-reflection, introspection, and gratitude for the gift of life.

Day 5: Bhai Tika – Celebrating the bond between siblings

The fifth and final day of the Tihar Festival is called Bhai Tika. It is a celebration of the bond between siblings. On this day, sisters perform a special puja for their brothers. They apply tika on their foreheads. They garland them with flowers. Finally, they offer them sweets and gifts. This ritual signifies the sisters’ love and blessings for their brothers and is believed to strengthen the bond between siblings. Brothers, in turn, give gifts to their sisters and promise to protect and support them throughout their lives.

Bhai Tika is a joyous occasion filled with love, laughter, and heartfelt emotions. It is a time for families to come together, celebrate their relationships, and create cherished memories.

Traditions and rituals during Tihar Festival

Tihar Festival is rich in traditions and rituals that are followed with great enthusiasm and devotion. One of the most prominent traditions is the decoration of homes with colorful rangolis and intricate designs. Rangolis are made using colored powders, rice, flowers, and other natural materials. These beautiful designs are believed to welcome positive energy and ward off evil spirits.

Another tradition is the lighting of lamps and candles. These symbolize the victory of light over darkness. They also represent good over evil. The entire city comes alive with a mesmerizing display of lights. This creates a magical ambiance that is hard to describe in words.

Rituals are an integral part of the Tihar Festival. These include the worship of deities, offering prayers, and performing aarti (a ceremonial dance with lamps). People visit temples, chant mantras, and seek the blessings of the gods and goddesses. They also perform Lakshmi Puja, where they offer flowers, fruits, sweets, and other offerings to Goddess Laxmi. The puja is accompanied by the chanting of sacred hymns. The ringing of bells creates a serene and spiritual atmosphere.

Tihar Festival decorations and lights

The decorations during Tihar Festival are a visual treat for the eyes. Homes are adorned with colorful rangolis, which are intricate patterns created using colored powders, rice, and flowers. The designs range from simple geometric shapes to elaborate motifs inspired by nature and mythology. The vibrant colors and delicate patterns add a touch of elegance and beauty to the surroundings.

In addition to rangolis, homes are also decorated with strings of marigold flowers, lights, and candles. The entire city is bathed in a warm glow, creating a magical atmosphere that is both enchanting and festive.

The lights of the Tihar Festival are a sight to behold. Lamps and candles are lit in every household, illuminating the streets and spreading a sense of joy and positivity. The flickering flames create a mesmerizing dance of light and shadow, casting a spell on all who witness it.

In recent years, the use of electric lights and decorative bulbs has become popular. These additions add a modern touch to the traditional festival. The streets are adorned with colorful LED lights, creating a breathtaking display of colors and patterns. The lights of the Tihar Festival truly bring the city to life, transforming it into a magical wonderland.

Tihar Festival food and delicacies

Food plays a central role in the celebrations of the Tihar Festival. It is a time when families come together to prepare and share delicious meals and sweets. One of the most popular Tihar delicacies is Sel Roti, a sweet rice flour donut that is deep-fried until golden brown. It is a traditional Nepali dish that is prepared with great care and love.

Another popular dish is Kwati, a soup made with a mixture of nine different types of beans. It is believed to be nutritious and consumed during the festival for good health and well-being. Other traditional dishes include Alu Tama, a curry made with black-eyed peas and bamboo shoots. Another dish is Bara, a lentil pancake served with spicy chutney.

Sweets are an essential part of the Tihar Festival, and people indulge in a variety of mouthwatering treats. One such sweet is Malpuwa, a deep-fried pancake made with flour, milk, and sugar. It is often served with a dollop of yogurt. Sometimes, it comes with a drizzle of honey. This adds a touch of sweetness to the festivities.

Another popular sweet is Anarsa, a rice flour and jaggery pastry that is deep-fried and sprinkled with sesame seeds. It is a crunchy and delicious treat that is enjoyed by people of all ages. The festival is also a time to exchange sweets and gifts with friends and relatives, spreading love and happiness.

Tihar Festival in different parts of Nepal

While Tihar Festival is celebrated throughout Nepal, each region has its own unique customs and traditions. In Kathmandu, the capital city, the festival is celebrated with great pomp and show. The streets are adorned with lights, and the city comes alive with cultural performances, music, and dance. The famous Kathmandu Durbar Square is beautifully decorated, and people gather to witness the grandeur of the celebrations.

In the Terai region, which is known for its agricultural heritage, Tihar is a time to worship oxen and cows. People honor the animals during this festive period. The animals are decorated with vibrant colors and garlands and paraded through the streets amidst much fanfare. In the hilly regions, people celebrate Tihar by lighting lamps and candles and performing puja in their homes. The festival is a time for families to come together, reconnect with their roots, and celebrate their culture and traditions.

Tihar Festival in the modern era

In recent years, Tihar Festival has evolved to reflect the changing times and the influence of modern technology. Traditional customs and rituals are still followed with great devotion. Additionally, there has been an infusion of new elements. These new elements add a contemporary touch to the festival.

The use of electric lights, LED bulbs, and decorative lanterns has become popular. These lights create a dazzling display of colors and patterns. Social media platforms are flooded with pictures and videos of Tihar decorations, creating a sense of excitement and anticipation.

People also exchange greetings and wishes through digital platforms, connecting with their loved ones even if they are far away. The festival has become a time for creativity and innovation. People come up with unique ways to celebrate and embrace the spirit of Tihar.

5-Day Celebrations of Tihar 2024

1. Kartik 14 (October 30, 2024): Kaag Tihar (Crow Day)
2. Kartik 15 (October 31, 2024): Kukur Tihar (Dog Day)
3. Kartik 16 (November 1, 2024): Laxmi Puja (Worshiping Goddess Laxmi and Cows)
4. Kartik 17 (November 2, 2024): Goru Tihar (Honoring Oxen and Gobhardhan Puja)
5. Kartik 18 (November 3, 2024): Bhai Tika (Brother-Sister Day)

Tihar Festival 2023, 2024, and 2025 in Nepal

How to Celebrate Tihar as a Traveler

Experience the grandeur of the Tihar festival in Kathmandu, renowned as the largest and most vibrant celebration of its kind. As night falls, the city streets come alive with a magnificent display of lights. This sets the stage for an array of religious and cultural festivities. While the smaller villages offer intriguingly unique celebrations, Kathmandu stands as the undeniable centerpiece, captivating visitors with its allure.

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Rani Pokhari Temple. It is a hidden gem accessible to the public only on the fifth day of the Tihar Festival. Situated in downtown Kathmandu, this majestic temple rests amidst an enchanting artificial pond. Crossing a bridge, you’ll arrive at the pristine white structure. It is adorned with intricate white-elephant carvings and crowned by a striking dome. A truly awe-inspiring sight to behold.

Embark on a captivating tour of Thamel, a bustling neighborhood hailed as a “hotspot” for tourists in Kathmandu. Meander through its narrow streets on foot or enjoy a rickshaw ride for an immersive experience. Explore the myriad of charming little stores offering unique treasures, and make sure to visit the vibrant market. In Thamel, you’ll also discover a wealth of delightful restaurants serving authentic Nepali cuisine. This allows you to indulge in the local flavors and culinary traditions.

In conclusion, Tihar Festival is a celebration of lights, traditions, and cultural heritage. It holds a special place in the hearts of Nepalese people. It is a time when families come together. Houses are adorned with intricate rangolis. The aroma of incense fills the air. From the worship of deities to the honoring of animals, each day of Tihar has its own significance and rituals.

The festival is a visual spectacle, with homes and streets illuminated with colorful lights and decorations. It is also a time to savor delicious food and sweets, exchange gifts, and strengthen the bond between siblings.

Tihar Festival is a celebration of life, love, and the triumph of good over evil. Let the lights guide us through the enchanting streets of Nepal. We will immerse ourselves in the magic of the Tihar Festival.

In Nepal, motherhood is highly valued and respected, and Matatirtha Aunsi is an opportunity for people to express their love and gratitude towards their mothers. On this day, people perform various rituals and traditions, such as taking a holy bath, performing puja, and offering sweets and gifts to their mothers.

According to Legend about Matatirtha Aunsi

According to a local legend, a young boy would take his livestock to a nearby pond to feed them. However, every time he sat down to eat, some of his food would accidentally fall into the water. One day, as he glanced at the pond, he saw a vision of his deceased mother, who had come to visit him. She could not join him for his meal but promised to visit him every year on the new moon day of the Nepali month Baisakh. Following this incident, people began visiting the pond in the hopes of connecting with their deceased mothers.

Another legend tells the story of a cowherd who lost his mother and was overcome with grief. Seeking solace, he made offerings at a water storage pond in the woods. To his surprise, he saw his mother’s face reflected in the water and accepted his offerings. This experience became known as Mata Tirtha Aunsi or Nepali Mother’s Day. It is believed that visiting this location and paying respect on this day brings peace to the souls of departed mothers.

There is also a tale of a woman who went to the pond to see her deceased mother but was unable to do so. Frustrated and distraught, she tragically took her own life by jumping into the water. After this incident, it is said that the spirits of the dead stopped visiting the pond, but people continue to come to the pond in hopes of catching a glimpse of their mothers’ reflections.

Celebration of Mother’s Day

Matatirtha Aunsi is celebrated in various ways throughout Nepal. In Kathmandu, thousands of people gather at Matatirtha, a famous pilgrimage site located on the outskirts of the city, to take a dip in the holy Matatirtha pond and perform puja. People also visit their mothers and grandmothers, offer them gifts, and seek blessings. In rural areas, people celebrate by preparing traditional dishes and organizing community feasts.

The Newar community celebrates the festival of Mata Tirtha Aunsi by showing great reverence to their mothers. Married daughters visit their mothers’ homes and offer them a variety of gifts, including sweets, fruits, yogurt, and eggs, in the hopes of seeing their mother’s faces.

During the celebration, the daughters demonstrate their deep love and respect for their mothers by performing various rituals. They apply tika on their mother’s forehead, offer them gifts, and present them with Sagun, a special offering made of boiled egg, smoked fish, and meat.

This festival is a symbol of the strong bond between mothers and their daughters in Newar culture. It is an opportunity for daughters to express their gratitude and show their love for their mothers, who have played a significant role in shaping their lives.

Overall, the celebration of Mata Tirtha Aunsi is a beautiful and heartfelt expression of love and respect for mothers in the Newar community. It serves as a reminder of the importance of maternal love and the role of mothers in shaping our lives.

In conclusion, Matatirtha Aunsi is an important festival celebrating the sacred bond between mothers and their children. By writing about this festival, you can share the beauty and significance of Nepali culture with your audience while improving your website’s visibility and ranking.

A Celebration Steeped in History

Biska Jatra, also known as Bisket Jatra and Vishwodhoj Jatra, traces its roots back to the Licchavi period (400-750 AD). This vibrant display marks the triumph of good over evil, a theme echoed in the festival’s energetic spirit.

Thrilling Events and Vibrant Displays

The festival explodes with a kaleidoscope of events. One of the most captivating is the chariot procession. A massive chariot, adorned with colorful banners, snakes through the streets of Bhaktapur, carrying the idol of Bhairab, the city’s protector deity. Crowds of enthusiastic participants pull the chariot, their energy adding to the festival’s infectious atmosphere.

Another highlight, though not for the faint of heart, is the famed tongue-piercing ceremony. Known as “Bhoto Dekhaune“, this ritual involves a group of courageous men who demonstrate their bravery and devotion by allowing a long iron spike to be pierced through their tongues. They then parade through the streets, showcasing their unwavering faith.

Beyond these captivating acts, Biska Jatra offers a treasure trove of experiences. Traditional dances and cultural performances enthrall audiences, while exciting competitions like tug-of-war, bullfighting (with a ritualistic twist), and archery add a layer of friendly rivalry.

Immerse Yourself in the Festivities

Biska Jatra attracts thousands of visitors each year, both domestic and international. It’s a chance to experience Nepal’s rich cultural tapestry firsthand. The celebrations encompass delicious traditional meals, warm greetings, and the opportunity to participate in various events.

Frequently Asked Questions about Biska Jatra

• When is Biska Jatra Celebrated? – Typically held in April, around the Nepali New Year.
• What’s the Significance of Biska Jatra? – It celebrates the victory of good over evil and dates back to the Licchavi period.
• What are the Main Attractions? – The chariot procession, tongue-piercing ceremony, traditional performances, competitions, and more.
• About the Tongue-Piercing Ceremony? – Performed by the “Bhoto Dekhaune,” it showcases bravery and devotion through a symbolic piercing.
• Can Foreigners Participate? – Absolutely! However, respectful attire and cultural sensitivity are recommended.
• Best Time to Visit Bhaktapur for Biska Jatra? – During the festival week in April. Check the exact dates before your trip.

A Festival Not to Be Missed

Biska Jatra is a captivating experience that encapsulates the essence of Nepal’s cultural vibrancy. It’s a joyous celebration that honors tradition, showcases bravery, and offers a chance to connect with the local spirit. If your travels bring you to Nepal in April, don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in this extraordinary festival.

Read More: bhaktapur.com

You might be amazed at the country’s colorful energetic ways of celebrating. This might leave you some memories to share with your colleagues or close ones. Festivals in Nepal are the source of religious and cultural events celebrated effectively and virtually every year.

Festivals are the source of social, mythological, religious, and historical backgrounds. All the festivals celebrated reflect their uniqueness. Dashain and Tihar are the festivals that carry national significance in Nepal. Different cultural and religious diversity is visible while celebrating different festivals. Read below to learn about the major festivals of Nepal

Dashain

Dashain is one of the important festivals all over Nepal. The victory of good over evil has been a symbolic meaning to celebrate this festival. Dashain is one of the longest festivals in Nepal; it is celebrated for 15 days.

Dashain generally falls on the month of Ashivn or Kartik (i.e. September to November). The starting day of Dashain is Ghatasthapana and ends at Kojagrat Purnima. On the 7th day of Dashin in Pulpati the flowers and red cloth are brought from Gorkha to Kathmandu. Goddess Durga is worshiped throughout the festival and on the 10^th day of Dashain people receive tika, jamara, and blessings from their elders.

Some of the activities that can be seen peeking in Dashain are flying kites, playing cards, and playing swing. These festivals bring joy to every individual participating. Read more about Dashain.

Tihar:

Tihar is a festival of lights, colors, and flowers. It falls after two weeks of Dashain. The festival is for 5 days; during these days goddess Laxmi, the goddess of wealth is worshiped.

During these five days, people all around Nepal clean their houses and decorate their premises with lights and flowers. Later, in the evening group of people gather together and celebrate by playing Deusi-Bhailo, singing, and dancing.

Moreover, the festival unites the relationship between brothers and sisters, Bhai Tika. Sister puts Santa-rangi tika (seven-colored tika) on her brother’s forehead wishing for a long and happy life.

Chhath:

Chhath is a festival celebrated by the majority of people living in the Terai region. The festival runs for 4 days to worship the god Surya, the only god that has existed to people to date.

The devotees fast all day wishing for the happiness of the family and the next day they end the festival by worshiping the rising sun. During Chhath, people use new utensils to cook delicacies for the people fasting and praying. It is believed that praying for the sun during Chhath eliminates skin disease. On this auspicious day, people gather on the river bank to worship the sun in the evening.

Teej:

Teej is another festival for Hindu women all over the country. The festival will be celebrated for three days and the women stay fasting. Teej falls on monsoon in the month of Shravan (June-July). There is a belief that if unmarried girls fast without the consumption of water or any food, they get a husband like Lord Shiva.

Moreover, married women wish for a long life for their husbands. Nepalese women celebrate the festival by singing and dancing. On the first day, all the women gather together to have a feast popularly known as “Dar” and they call it Dar Khane din. The following day they fast and visit the Pashupatinath temple. On the third day, the women pay homage to saints and end the festivals by taking a bath.

Holi:

Holi is popularly known as the festival of colors, the festival of love, and the festival of spring. This festival will be celebrated by playing with water and colors. Hoil falls in the spring season and during Chaitra (March).

The importance of Holi is to celebrate the death of “Holika”. Holi is significant for the divine love of Radha Krishna. People often forget their grudges and ask for forgiveness exchanging sweets. Terai region also celebrates Holi with great passion.

Lhosar:

Lhosar is one of the festivals that carries significance for Buddhist people all over Nepal. People from Tibet called it Losar and it means the beginning of a new year.

At this festival people decorate their house, all the family gather together and enjoy singing and dancing. In addition, people visit monasteries, wear their cultural dress, drink homemade alcohol, and have a mask dance. Lhosar is classified into different types according to the communities.

• Tamu Lhosar: celebrated by the Gurung community.
• Sonam Lhosar: celebrated by the Tamang community.
• Gyalpo Lhosar: celebrated by the Sherpa community.

Punhi:

Punhi is popularly known as Yomari punhi and is the festival celebrated in the Newar community. This festival is celebrated at the end when rice is harvested. In Nepali, Purnima represents full moon day, so yomari punhi falls on full moon day (2nd month of the Lunar Calendar).

Annapurna is the goddess of grain and is worshiped on this day. Yomari is a mixed sweet made from rice flour and mixed sesame seeds. Yomari in winter keeps you warm and gives you energy. The stuffing in Yomari can be anything you like, so you alter and try new recipes as well.

Indra Jatra:

Indra Jatra is a religious festival that is popular among Hindus and the Buddhist community. Also, Indra Jatra is popular as Yenya. The festival takes place in Kathmandu Durbar square where all the people gather and celebrate.

Indra Jatra is generally famous for masked dances like Lakhe nach with the scary image(mask) on their face. With the festival being performed, Kumari Jatra also performs where the living goddess Kumari is taken for a ride in Charritot. People use lamps along the routes in remembrance of their loved ones.

Buddha Jayanti:

Buddha Jayanti is celebrating in remembrance of the birthday of Lord Gautam Buddha. On this day, a prince was born as Siddhartha Gautam who later founded Buddhism. Buddha’s birthday is celebrated all over Asia.

Generally, his followers visit Swayambhu, Bouddha, and monasteries on this day. His followers gather in a place, stay fasting in his name, sing the prayers, and enjoy this day.

Udhauli & Ubhauli:

The Kirat community has great influences and celebrates Udhauli & Ubhauli every year. This festival is celebrated twice a year (summer and winter). Kirati people celebrate Udhauli in the month of Mangsir to thank the nature god for providing them with enough harvest for the year.

People begin to migrate down the hill to protect themselves from the cold. Ubhauli is celebrating the month of Baishak which denotes the beginning of the farming season and also people start to migrate upwards.

Shivaratri:

Shivaratri is the greatest festival in the Hindu community where we worship Lord Shiva. Devotees take a deep bath in the river and stay fasting for the whole day. Generally, People visit the Pashupatinath temple. Shivaratri falls on Falgnu (February or March).

Later at night, People also enjoy sitting on fire and keeping themselves warm. There is a ritual of vang and datura to please lord shiva.

Janai Purnima:

Hindu people celebrate Janai Purnima on the day of Purnima (full moon day). This festival is widely popular as Raksha Bandhan where the sister ties a band called rakhi on the brother’s hand for their safety and long life.

On this day boys who have done bratabandha wear Janai (a sacred thread) and both men and women wear Raksha Bandhan in their hands. People celebrate this festival by eating kwati, a mixed soup of nine sprouted beans.

Gai Jatra:

Gai Jatra is a traditional festival that carries the remembrance of loved ones. The newar community enjoys this festival with great pride. The festive fall on Bhadra (August to September)

On this day people roam around the city wearing face masks and enjoy dancing and singing in the street. People also remember the loved ones who passed away and share their feelings and believe that their loved ones are in heaven.

Krishna Janmashtami:

Krishna Janmashtami is the major festival of Nepal where people celebrate the birthday of Lord Krishna. There is a specific group of devotee who follows Lord Krishna known as Krishna Pranahmi. People often call it Krishnashtami, SaatamAatham, Gokulashtami, Yadukulashtami, and Srikrishna Jayanti. It falls in August and lasts for 2 days.

On this day Lord Krishna was born; devotees of Krishna fast and worship Shiva wholeheartedly. On top of it, the next day people play games such as Dahi handi (famous among Indian Hindus) and fly kites.

Biska Jatra

Biska Jatra is a popular festival celebrated in Bhaktapur, Nepal, during the Nepali new year. The festival is characterized by the erection of a tall wooden pole, known as a linga, which is adorned with colorful flags and offerings. A highlight of the festival is the pulling of a chariot carrying the god Bhairab and his consort Bhadrakali, which is believed to bring good fortune to the participants.

Rato Machindranath Jatra

Rato Machindranath Jatra is a month-long festival celebrated in Patan, Nepal, during the summer months. The festival centers around the pulling of a chariot carrying the god Rato Machindranath, who is believed to bring rain and good harvests. The chariot is pulled through the streets of Patan by devotees, and the festival culminates in the erection of a bamboo pole adorned with prayer flags.

Matatirtha Aunsi

Matatirtha Aunsi is a traditional Hindu festival celebrated in Nepal on the new moon day in the month of Baisakh (April-May). The festival is a day to honor and show gratitude to mothers, both living and deceased. Devotees visit the Matatirtha temple in Kathmandu to perform rituals and make offerings to their mothers, seeking blessings for their well-being and prosperity.