Gaura festival begins today

Amargadhi (Dadeldhura): One of the biggest festivals of Sudurpaschim Province, Gaura, has begun today.

On the first day of the festival, it is customary for women who fast today to start Gaura by soaking Biruda (five types of grains and legumes). Therefore, today is also known as Biruda Panchami. Biruda is considered the prasad and used in the worship of Gaura Devi.

“One should follow a strict vegetarian diet and celibacy for a month to take part in this ritual,” said Khageshwari Saud, an expert on the Gaura festival. After observing the fast, the Gaura festival will begin formally.

“It is believed that by fasting and worshipping Gaura, the partner and family members will be healthy, live long, and be happy and prosperous,” Saud said.

From this day on, it is also customary to play the Deuda (dance) with men and women of all ages coming together in a circle.

Since ancient times, it has been a tradition under this festival to worship Parvati, the spouse of Lord Shiva, as the Gaura Devi.