SATV Feb 23,Kathmandu: An eight-day-long ‘Swayambhu Festival’ oganised by Ward No. 15 of the Kathmandu Metropolitan City began on Saturday in the Swayambhu area. The festival, held under the slogan "The pride of our ancestors, the pride of Nepalis," aims to highlight the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the region and promote tourism.
Kathmandu Metropolitan City Mayor Balendra Shah inaugurated the event and expressed his appreciation for hosting the festival at the base of Swayambhu, a religious site visited by people from diverse religious backgrounds, including Buddhists, Hindus, Kirats and others. Mayor Shah emphasised the importance of such events as a platform for sharing knowledge about traditional cuisine, culture, attire and lifestyle. Stating that traditional foods are rich in heritage and nutrition, he said that providing nutritional information on packaging might attract new generations and tourists to enjoy such foods.
Deputy Mayor Sunita Dangol said that the festival aims to provide sustainable support for the cultural significance and tourism promotion of the Swayambhu area. She said that the festival would help in the marketing of local products and in enhancing the importance of traditional food and handicrafts.
Ward No. 15 Chairman Ishwor Man Dangol said that Swayambhu, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is located within the ward. The area also houses many significant cultural landmarks, including Lakhatirtha, Bijeshwori, Shobha Bhagwati, as well as historical and natural science museums. However, he said that these cultural heritages have not been adequately promoted. He said that the festival was organised to showcase the ward’s diverse geographical, religious, cultural and social features, as well as its temples, stupas, monasteries and other ancient monuments.
“The festival not only celebrates our cultural heritage but also promotes economic prosperity through tourism,” Dangol said. “Such events bring together people from different ethnic backgrounds, fostering unity and helping to promote local traditions and culture.”
The festival offers a platform for local talent, with a series of cultural programmes, including Dhime performances, Tamang Selo, Chariya dance, traditional dances, songs and more. Dangol also informed that Ward No. 15 has been offering various training programmes to help locals become self-reliant and such events play a key role in promoting their businesses. He added that the event also serves as a venue to promote locally produced goods, providing an opportunity for local businesses to generate income.
In addition to cultural performances, the event also features an exhibition of photographs depicting local heritage, handicrafts, locally produced goods, local cuisine and a documentary showcasing the region’s history.
With more than 60 stalls, the festival showcases traditional musical instruments, images related to the customs from birth to death in the Newar community, pictures related to the life of Buddha, as well as postal stamps and currency.
The Swayambhu Festival will continue until March 1.
