All Blog Posts Tagged 'Hindu' (6)

I was recently asked to write about the cultural complexity of Nepal, focusing on Buddhism and Hindu faiths. As i am not Nepali, Hindu or Buddhist, and I have only been living in Nepal for a short time this topic was way out of my area of experience. I am not one to turn away from a challenge so here is my attempt... please feel free to point out any errors as I am new to the topic and this is how we learn!

Life in Nepal is a confusing mix of religious, caste, cultural and…

I have said it before and I will say it again, Nepal the some of the most fascinating and crazy festivals I have ever heard of. In Dhulikehel Gods chase you and steal your money, at Maha Shivaratri every one gets high, Newari girls marry fruit trees, and in some villages the trees marry each…

Every town in Nepal has its own special festival or celebration. Yesterday I headed out to Dhulikhel, 30 km SE of Kathmandu, to see their take on the Nava Durga Jatra.  I was told it is Nepal’s version of the Running of the Bulls, though instead of bulls masked Gods, expecting substantial pay offs, chase…

Last Year I celebrated Maha Shivaratri at my home in Pokhara. Like most guys I enjoyed the craziness of the festival. It’s an excuse to stay out late, drink, smoke and play with fire – all in the name of worship of Lord Shiva.

In Pokhara there is a tradition of building large fires in the street. Children often steal wooden things from house to fuel the fires. It is believed to be bad luck to discipline them because they are stealing for worship.

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The Swasthani Purnima comes to an end today at Sankhu, 16 km from Kathmandu. After a month of fasting, worship and bathing in the frigid…

Poush Aunsi at Gokarneswor Mahadev* is rarely found on the regular tourist itinerary. It's very likely you will be the only foreigner in attendance. This serious and personal ceremony provides a genuine cultural experience, which should not be missed.

Hindu funeral rites require details such as the time and date, Thithi, of an individual's birth in order to send…