Gai Jatra observe in Nepal to commemorate deceased ones

Aug 13, 2025

Kathmandu (Nepal), August 13 (ANI): Dressed as cows who are on a brief pilgrimage to give salvation to souls of their departed loved ones, thousands of people marched through Basantapur Durbar Square marking the annual festival of Gai Jatra. The time-honoured tradition involves people of all ages wearing odd costumes to commemorate those who died within the past year. Bereaved families offer fruits, bread, beaten rice, curd, and money to those participating in the procession, including the cows. This festival of cows, commonly called "Gai Jatra" or the "Cow Festival," falls on the first day of the waning moon in the month of Bhadra (Bhadra Sukla Pratipada), the fifth month of the lunar calendar. It is mostly observed by Newari and Tharu communities of Nepal. As per sayings, the festival derives its name from the religious belief that the deceased, during their journey to heaven, crosses a legendary river by grabbing the tail of a cow. This festival is also marked by mockery of the wrongdoings of politicians and other concerned groups through the means of drama, music, and other performance arts.