Madhyapur Thimi celebrates its Malla-era battle tradition
Summary
Madhyapur Thimi marked the historic ‘Kha: Pihanwaigu’ festival, with participants parading in traditional warrior attire and ceremonial weapons to evoke the martial culture of the Malla era. The celebration ended at Balkumari Temple with a pumpkin-striking ritual believed to bring protection from illness and misfortune.
Key Points
- The historic ‘Kha: Pihanwaigu’ festival was observed in Madhyapur Thimi on the 11th day of Dashain, coinciding with Papankusha Ekadashi.
- Participants and local Guthis paraded through the town in warrior-style clothing carrying swords, shields, khukuris and ceremonial armour.
- The procession started at the Dyo Chhen of Taleju Bhawani in Layaku and passed through Thahneya and Kohneya.
- The festival concludes at Balkumari Temple with a ritual of striking a pumpkin, whose pieces are taken home as prasad for protection.
