Public holiday declared across Far-west province on occasion of Bhuwa festival

Kanchanpur: A public holiday has been declared across the Far West Province today on the occasion of Bhuwa, the original and historical cultural festival of the province. According to a decision of the Far West Province Government’s Council of Ministers, all government offices and public bodies in the province will remain closed today.

Celebrated with special significance in Bajura, Bajhang and Achham, the Bhuwa festival is linked to the Dwapar Yuga. According to religious belief, the festival marks the joy of the victory of the Pandavas in the religious war between the Pandavas and the Kauravas. Former ward chairperson of Shuklaphanta Municipality-11, Dil Bahadur Budha, said that the Bhuwa dance performed during the festival is regarded as a symbol of bravery.

Budha said that with the increasing migration from the hilly districts to the Terai in recent years, enthusiasm for the festival has grown significantly in Kailali and Kanchanpur as well. To reflect the originality of the hilly districts, Bhuwa dances and Deuda games are being specially organized in urban areas including Dhangadhi and Mahendranagar. He added that the festival has strengthened cultural unity between the hills and the Terai.

“Bhuwa festival is not just entertainment; it is a military exercise and a collection of historical stories,” Budha said. “The festival begins on the day before Pus Krishna Aunsi and is celebrated joyfully for three to five days.” According to him, men wear traditional attire including white robes and turbans, carry swords and shields, and collectively demonstrate martial arts skills.

Tek Bahadur Saund of Beldandi said that villagers traditionally gather in one place, light a fire at night, stay awake and sing mythological stories from the Mahabharata. “This festival conveys a message of brotherhood, unity and bravery in society,” he said.

The provincial government has been declaring a public holiday on the occasion of the Bhuwa festival for the past few years with the aim of preserving local art, culture and traditions.