Nepali 2023 Calendar: A Guide To Festivals And Events
A Personal Experience
Growing up in Nepal, I always looked forward to the festivals and events that were celebrated throughout the year. As 2023 approaches, I am excited to see what the Nepali calendar has in store for us. In this article, I will share a comprehensive guide to the festivals and events that will take place in Nepal in 2023.
What is the Nepali Calendar?
The Nepali calendar is a lunisolar calendar that is based on the Hindu calendar. It is used in Nepal as well as in some parts of India. The calendar is based on the position of the moon, and it has 12 months. Each month is divided into two parts, the bright half and the dark half.
Important Dates in the Nepali Calendar
The Nepali calendar is full of festivals and events that are celebrated throughout the year. Here are some important dates to look out for in 2023:
Maghe Sankranti: This festival marks the beginning of the Nepali month of Magh. It is celebrated on January 14, 2023. People take a dip in sacred rivers and ponds and eat traditional dishes such as yomari and chaku.
Maha Shivaratri: This festival is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is celebrated on March 3, 2023. People visit Shiva temples and perform puja throughout the night.
Bisket Jatra: This festival is celebrated in the town of Bhaktapur and marks the Nepali New Year. It is celebrated on April 12, 2023. The highlight of the festival is the pulling of a chariot carrying the idols of Lord Bhairab and Goddess Bhadrakali.
Ram Navami: This festival celebrates the birth of Lord Ram and is celebrated on April 14, 2023. People visit Ram temples and perform puja.
Teej: This festival is celebrated by women and is dedicated to Goddess Parvati. It is celebrated on September 1, 2023. Women dress up in red and dance to traditional songs.
Tihar: This is a five-day festival that is also known as the festival of lights. It is celebrated on November 5-9, 2023. Each day has a different significance, and people decorate their homes with lights and flowers.
World Events in the Nepali Calendar
Aside from the festivals and events that are celebrated in Nepal, there are also some world events that are observed in the Nepali calendar. Here are some important dates:
International Women’s Day: This is observed on March 8, 2023. It is a day to celebrate the achievements of women and to raise awareness about gender equality.
Earth Day: This is observed on April 22, 2023. It is a day to raise awareness about environmental issues and to promote sustainable practices.
World Refugee Day: This is observed on June 20, 2023. It is a day to honor the courage and resilience of refugees and to raise awareness about the challenges they face.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the Nepali calendar?
The Nepali calendar is an important part of Nepali culture and tradition. It is used to determine important dates for festivals, events, and ceremonies.
What are some traditional dishes that are eaten during festivals?
There are many traditional dishes that are eaten during festivals, but some popular ones include yomari, chaku, sel roti, and samay baji.
What is the significance of Tihar?
Tihar is a five-day festival that is celebrated to honor different aspects of nature such as crows, dogs, and cows. It is also a time to celebrate the bond between brothers and sisters and to pray for prosperity and happiness.
