In pictures: Kirat community celebrates Sakela Udhauli

Kathmandu, December 15 – The second largest festival of the Kirat community, 'Sakela Udhauli,' also known as a nature-worshipping festival, has begun today.

The Kirat community observes two major Sakela festivals: Udhauli, which is celebrated for 15 days starting from the full moon of Mangsir, and Ubhauli, celebrated for a month starting from the full moon of Baisakh.

On the occasion of Udhauli Sakela, a gathering took place today in Sano Hattiban, Lalitpur, where Dhami (traditional healers) performed rituals to worship nature, marking the start of the Udhauli festival.

Celebrated twice a year, the Udhauli Sakela festival involves rituals praying for a good harvest and protection from famine, with worship of nature at the center.

The Kirat community traditionally uses materials such as rooster cocks, pure liquor, raksi (alcohol), ginger, and yellow-colored rice for nature worship.

Photos: Nepal Photo Library