Historic Chaitra Ashtami Festival Kicks Off in Baglung

Baglung. The famous Chaitra Ashtami festival, deeply connected to the identity and historical tradition of Baglung, is starting tomorrow, Tuesday. All preparations for the fair, organized by the Kalika Bhagwati Guthi Management Committee and scheduled from Chaitra 10 to 14, have reached the final stage.

It is believed that the fair, organized under the main theme 'Destination Baglung Kalika—Promotion of Local Products, Foundation of Art, Culture, and Prosperity, Religious Tourism,' will further elevate the religious and cultural prestige of Baglung. According to Bhupendra Khadka, Coordinator of the main organizing committee and Chairman of the Guthi, the work related to stall construction, publicity, and management of the entertainment fair has been completed.

This year's fair has given special priority to sports and cultural programs. The main attractions of the fair will be the Kalika Cup Open Men's Volleyball competition with a prize money of NPR 300,000 and the Women's Volleyball competition with a prize money of NPR 100,000. Furthermore, programs such as the National Lok Dohori Song Competition with a prize money of NPR 200,000, the Chhello competition, the chariot procession, and the children's park will make the fair more interesting.

Special importance is given to the trade of local products at this fair, which is held on the premises of the Kalika Bhagwati Temple, a center of religious faith. Traders from the rural areas of Baglung bring wooden containers, baskets, winnowing trays, and various household items for sale.

This fair, which began during the time when Parbat State existed in the medieval era, carries a long historical legacy. Previously held in various squares and temporary sheds in Baglung Bazaar, this fair has recently started concentrating on the temple premises due to transportation and settlement expansion.

The organizers have stated that famous artists including Prakash Saput, Basanta Thapa, Shiva Pariyar, and Bhumika Giri will perform musically to enhance the cultural vibrancy of the fair. Special worship rituals will be held throughout the nine nights of Chaitra Dashain, and it is estimated that lakhs of devotees and spectators will visit Baglung from various parts of the country during this time.

According to Chairman Khadka, the Chaitra Ashtami festival is not just for entertainment but also a strong medium for promoting Baglung's art, culture, and trade.