The
Nepalese people have always been family
oriented. They take great pride in their
ancient tradition of closely-knit family
unit. This sort of kinship is not only
the result of religious teachings, but
also due to various festivals and ceremonies,
which brings the family together and strengthens
the family ties in the Nepalese society.
Such is the festival
of "Mata Tritha Puja" which
in English is "Mother's day"
. This festival falls on the last day
of the dark fortnight of April or early
May. It is a day when one shows appreciation
and gratitude to his/her mother for her
unconditional love and undying support.
On this day, each house
bustles with activities and everyone,
regardless of age, participates. There
aren't much religious ceremonies but the
fact that it is a day for mothers, calls
for celebrations for she is the one who
keeps the family together through ups
and downs in life. Even the small children
dig into their savings to buy gifts for
their mothers. Sons and daughters living
separately, come with presents and delicacies
to spend time with their mother. It is
a day of reunion for married daughters
with their mothers. The entire day is
filled with festivities and merry making. |