Yartung festival marked in Khangsar

By Our Correspondent 

Manang, Aug. 9: The Yartung festival, a symbol of harmony and brotherhood, has been celebrated in Khangsar in  Manang.

 The local residents traditionally observed this year’s Yartung festival on Thursday.

This festival has been celebrated since ancient times every year during the Nepali month of Shrawan. 

Generally, as snowfall is common in the Himalayan region, there isn’t much farming. However, once the snow melts, crops such as potatoes, turnips, and buckwheat are planted, and during this time, the fields are lush and green.

 Therefore, this month is also regarded as the green month across the Himalayan region. Farmers are relatively free during this period as well.

As the snow begins to melt in the highland pastures, yarsagumba also becomes available. Many people go to collect it and, after returning, they have more free time, which is another reason why the Yartung festival is celebrated with such enthusiasm during this period.

During Yartung, men dress in traditional ethnic attire, decorate their horses, and gather in an open area of the village.

 There, they participate in competitive horse races, all while singing songs in remembrance of their ancestors and deities.

 In the evening, it is customary for the community to gather at one place, enjoy themselves, and share a communal feast.