Women from the Tharu and Madhesi communities in the Terai region of Nepal observe the indigenous festival of Jitiya on Wednesday, fasting without water or food to worship God for the longevity, good health, success, and well-being of their offspring, particularly their sons.

The festival falls on the eighth day of the waning moon in the Nepali month of Ashwin according to the lunar calendar. On the day before the Jitiya fast, women feast on Ogatan and nauni saag, and take a holy bath in nearby rivers, ponds, or lakes.

President Ramchandra Paudel said that indigenous festivals such as Jitiya promote mutual respect, goodwill, and a sense of tolerance, thereby protecting the diversity of Nepal. In his message on the occasion of Jitiya today, President Paudel called for unity to preserve the unique cultural heritage of Nepal.

Meanwhile, Vice President Ram Sahay Prasad Yadav emphasized that the festivals we celebrate help us connect our customary values and norms to the present day. He said that these celebrations contribute to strengthening family relations and consolidating social structures and unity.

By – Sweta Singh (Kathmandu)