Dharan prepares to host Yomari Festival

By Our Correspondent, Dharan, Dec. 12: Dhime dance is performed in every house in Dharan to preserve the traditional Newar festival of Yomari.

At a press conference on Wednesday, the organisers announced the fifth edition of the Yomari festival, which will be observed from December 16. 

According to Anil Maskey, the central vice-president of Newa: Deya Dabuka, the event is aimed at preserving Newar culture with the active participation of the residents of Dharan. He said that similar grand celebrations were held in the past.

On the occasion of the Yomari festival, 200 artists will perform Newar dances in tune with the Dhime music.

 Sudhan Munikar, president of the event, informed that artists from all over the country will participate in the event.

Coordinator Amrit Acharya explained that the festival was being organised to preserve and pass on the century-old tradition of Yomari and Newar delicacies to the younger generation, as well as to make a positive impact on society. 

He also mentioned that during the festival, every household will have Yomari, along with cultural performances such as Lakhey dance, Dhime music and Thakthuke.

The event aims to promote tourism and contribute to the preservation of culture and traditions.

Yomari Punhi, or Yomari Purnima, is celebrated by the Newar community on the first full moon of the Hemanta season, which falls on the day of the rice harvest festival. This year, the festival falls on December 15. 

The Newar community celebrates this festival by making and eating Yomari.

 Yomari holds special significance in Newar culture, especially for birthdays and other important occasions, where it is considered a must-have dish.