The ancient Masto festivals, which are profoundly ingrained in the Khas culture of Karnali, are being celebrated in full swing around Jumla. It has become a place that attracts thousands of devotees. The Masto festivities, honor local deities such as the sun, the moon, the air, etc. It begins on Janai Purnima, the full moon day in Shrawan, which will go until Kartik Sukla Purnima. These festivals are culturally and religiously significant in the region, featuring vibrant ceremonies, clan god worship, and traditional Deuda dances.
This year’s celebrations have witnessed an increase in participation. Devotees from Jumla, Kalikot, Mugu, and beyond go to different temple sites. One of the important rites, Kalasilla Kalika Puja, was recently conducted at Badki and Bishtawada. It was attended by around 5,000 religious tourists from Hima Rural Municipality. The fairs, which are held in several local areas, also boost local tourism by attracting domestic visitors to watch the unique rituals and cultural acts.
The Masto festivals also includes the worship of different deities such as Bahrabhai Masto, Bhairavanath, and Kalika, as well as Kul Puja. It is performed at multiple shrines. The fairs offer local communities to celebrate their cultural heritage. It has become a popular destination for religious and cultural tourism in Karnali. The fairs also boost local economic activity, creating opportunities for enterprises to prosper.
The local authorities understand the significance of these festivals in boosting religious tourism in Karnali. Laxman Bahadur Shahi, Chairman of Hima Rural Municipality, highlighted ongoing efforts to develop infrastructure surrounding the temples, guaranteeing that the region can continue to welcome increasing audiences. Meanwhile, Sinja Rural Municipality maintains its religious traditions, such as the Kedarnath festival and rites at Chandannath Temple, which attract hundreds of people each year.
Also read: Celebration of Indra Jatra in Nepal
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