Overview
Every year, as winter descends upon the Himalayan nation of Nepal, the Kirant community – comprising the Sunuwar, Limbu, Thami, Yakkha, and Khambu Rai – gears up to celebrate the vibrant festival of Udhauli Parva.
The grand festival of Sakela among the Kirants unfolds in two festive dimensions – Ugauli and Udhauli. In the Nepali language, “Ungo” signifies up, while “Undho” denotes down.
Udhauli Parva 2023
Udhauli festival annually takes center stage on the full moon day of Mangsir, signaling the onset of winter according to Kiranti beliefs. This year, the festival will be observed on December 26, 2023. This joyous occasion coincides with the celebration of a bountiful harvest. The Kiranti religious text, ‘Mandhum,’ divides the entire year into two segments – Ugauli and Udhauli – based on the migratory patterns of birds.
The Significance of Udhauli Parva
Udhauli Parva is more than just a festival; it’s a celebration of life, nature, and the changing seasons. It’s a time when the Kirant people express their gratitude to Mother Earth for the bountiful harvest. The festival symbolizes the migration phase downwards towards the low-elevation regions when the winter season arrives.
The Festivities of Udhauli Parva
The festival is a riot of colors, music, and dance. The key highlight is the Sakela dance, performed by young girls and boys. This dance is inspired by the love story of Paruhang, the god of the sun, and Sumnina, the goddess of the land. The dancers move in a circle, imitating the movements of birds and animals, their steps in sync with the rhythmic beats of traditional Kirant music.
Significance of Udho and Ungo in Sakela
The terms Udho and Ungo hold a special place in the Kirant community’s cultural tapestry. “Ungo,” or up, symbolizes the migration of the Kirants living in the mountain ranges as they gradually ascend towards higher altitudes. Conversely, “Undho,” or down, marks the descent of the Kirants to the flatlands during the winter season. This dual migration is deeply rooted in the Kiranti belief system and is intricately tied to the cycles of nature.
Cultural Revelry in Sakela Dance
Kirants, residing in the mountainous regions, gather in public spaces during Udhauli to perform the traditional ‘Sakela’ dance donned in their cultural attire. This dance is accompanied by the melodious tunes of traditional musical instruments such as drums and zyamta, creating a serene and captivating atmosphere. The slow, rhythmic movements of the dancers add a musical melody to the celebration.
Traditional Attire and Delightful Libations
Women participating in the Sakela dance adorn themselves in chitko gunyu, a special fabric. As part of the festivities, a unique drink called tongba is served, adding to the overall delight of the celebration. Tongba, with its pleasant taste, has the power to momentarily transcend pain and infuse a sense of romance into one’s life.
Unity, Harmony, and Reverence
Public gatherings and dances during Udhauli extend to various locations, including Kathmandu’s Tudikhel, Ilam, Panchthar, Tehrathum, and other regions where the Kirant community thrives. This cultural spectacle fosters unity as Kiranti individuals, dressed in traditional garb, come together to showcase their vibrant dance forms.
The Kirant community’s deep connection to the land is evident during Udhauli. They worship the earth, expressing gratitude for the year’s harvest while fervently praying for a prosperous harvest in the coming year. On this occasion, leaders of Nepal, including the President, Vice President, Prime Minister, and political figures, convey good wishes, emphasizing the inspiration for religious, caste, linguistic, and ethnic unity.
Conclusion
Udhauli Parva is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Nepal’s Kirant community. It’s a festival that celebrates life, nature, and the indomitable spirit of the people. As we look back at Udhauli Parva 2023, we are reminded of the importance of preserving these timeless traditions for future generations.
