Happy Father’s Day

  

Happy Father’s Day

Father's Day in Nepal is referred to as "Kushe Aunsi" or "Buwa ko Mukh Herne Din," and is a day people observe with much veneration culturally and religiously. Unlike the Western celebration of Father's Day, which falls on a fixed date, the third Sunday of June, Father's Day in Nepal falls in late August or early September of the month according to the lunar calendar.

Historical and Cultural Background

1. Ancient Traditions: In Nepal, the concept of Father's Day is based upon the old Hindu tradition. This day related to the worship of fathers and forefathers, as a way of showing respect for the paternal figure, which is deeply grounded in Nepalese culture. This coincides with the religious practice of paying respect to ancestors through various rituals like "Shraddha" and "Tarpan," where offerings are made to the deceased forefathers.

2. Mythological Significance: According to Hindu mythology, the name Kushe Aunsi originates from the name of the holy grass called "Kush." It is believed to purify everything with which it comes in contact. It is therefore allowed in most religious rituals as a way of depicting purity and prosperity. The day is also associated with the story of how the goddess Parvati turned herself into a tree to avoid a certain demon. The tree thus came to be identified as the sacred plant Kush, which then became a divine protector.

3. Social Customs: Traditionally, sons and daughters respect fathers on this day by offering fruits, sweets, clothes, and various other gifts. The ritual of "Mukh Herne"-looking at the father's face-is symbolic, representing gratitude and reverence by the children toward the father. Those whose fathers have died go to sacred sites such as Gokarna in Kathmandu and perform "Shraddha" rituals, praying for their father's soul to rest in peace.

Evolution of the Celebration

While the spirit of the celebration is well entrenched in tradition, with each passing day, the way Father's Day is celebrated in Nepal has evolved with modernity. One finds urban families combining the traditional rituals of Tarpan along with more modern forms of celebration, including family gatherings, sharing meals, and exchanging gifts. It has also emerged as a broader celebration of the father-child bond, reflecting the influence of global Father's Day traditions.

Even with these changes, the spiritual and cultural significance of Kushe Aunsi is still strong, making it a unique, culturally important day in Nepali culture.