Kathmandu: Mayako Pahichan Nepal (MKPN) in collaboration
with Dakini Hospitality is hosting a first-ever Rainbow Ropai Jatra Festival in
Nepal. The celebration is scheduled for June 29, 2024 at Boudha from 5 pm
onwards.
All preparations for the festival have been complete, said
MKPN. MKPN has already announced that the Jatra will be organised by sexual and
gender minorities on June 29 according to the lunar calendar.
The festival, which marks the beginning of the monsoon
season and paddy plantation, embodies the resilience, hope and cultural
diversity of the Nepali people, highlighting their deep connection with
agriculture. Agriculture, especially rice farming, largely contributes to
Nepal's economy and culture.
The festival is also a celebration of farming, rain, life,
community, gender diversity, food and tradition, emphasising harmony between
human and nature. It also highlights the importance of agriculture in Nepali
culture.
The Nepali month of Asar 15, coinciding with the festival,
is also known as the National Paddy Day. Traditional dances, and Asare songs
are sung during paddy plantation. Men often dress up in women's clothing and
celebrate the festival with the addition of a lighthearted touch and playful
performances.
MKPN community believes that the festival is inherently
associated with MKPN community as men dress up as women during the
celebrations. People of this community are found to have been involved in
special and respected professions in ancient times. They used to do professions
such as dhamijhakri (witchdoctor), panda priest, guru, who would teach dance
and music.
Even in the agricultural sector, it seems that this
community may have played an important role in teaching the general public
about agricultural practices. Therefore, the festival is celebrated as a
symbolic representation of the first rice planting training session.
In regions of the Midwest and Far West, Ropai Jatra is known
as a tradition wherein the landlord is immersed in a muddy paddy field, and
rituals are performed for ensuring the protection and prosperity of newlyweds
and newborn babies.
Asar 15 is also popular for eating a mixture of curd, beaten
rice, and sugar, providing much-needed energy for farmers during the demanding
planting season.
Meanwhile, MKPN has announced plans to celebrate similar
local festivals and events throughout the year, reflecting and promoting local
culture, tradition and inclusion.
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