Gai Jatra (Cow Festival)

Gai Jatra-which means "the procession of cows" is an important festival celebrated by Newari community, particularly in Kathmandu Valley. Government offices and schools in Kathmandu valley remain closed today. The festival falls on the first day of the second fortnight (waning moon) of the Hindu month Shrawan-which usually falls between July and August.

The festival has its root in ancient time  when people appeased Yam Raj-the Lord of the death. Later in the medieval time, the festival was modified to humorous form.  Every family who has lost their family member during the past member must join the procession with their cows. Those who don't have cows decorate their young boys as cow and join the procession. Now, people dress up with funny attire and head gears and put on masks or paints on the face, much more like Halloween in the US . This is also opportunity for the people to make mockery and satire the corrupt officials and politicians or the government functioning.

The legend has it that the queen of King Pratap Malla was deeply saddened with demise of their son. She wouldn't talk or smile .The king tried everything possible to make his grief-stricken queen smile happy but failed. Then he announced a handsome reward if anyone can make his wife laugh. Then, it was the time of Gaijatra. The participants of the procession came out with hilarious costumes and make ups. Then the queen couldn't stop laughing. Till today, the tradition of wearing funny dresses and make up continues. This is also opportunity for the comedians and artists to make mockery of the system, bureaucrats and the politicians.

Basically, the festival is meant to realize the  reality of life and accept any grievances of life happily. This festival also prepares people for the life after the death. If your trip to coincides with this festival, try to stay in the Kathmandu Valley.