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Mohani: The Unique Dashain Celebration of Kathmandu’s Newars

For the Newar community of Kathmandu, Dashain takes a distinct form and is celebrated as Mohani. Rooted in unique rituals and deep cultural significance, Mohani reflects the values of unity, tradition, and respect for tools and knowledge. Unlike mainstream Dashain, Mohani involves customs that are both fascinating and meaningful, beginning from Astami and culminating on Dashami.

Astami: Kuchi Bhowe (Ku-La-Chi Bhoj)

The celebration starts on Astami with a grand feast known as Kuchi Bhowe. The term is thought to originate from the tradition of having to eat a specific quantity of food (dui mana chiura), though the exact origins remain debated. It is widely understood as Ku-La-Chi Bhoj—a feast where all family members, regardless of where they reside, gather to eat together.

This communal meal signifies unity among the extended family, bringing together brothers, cousins, and relatives under one roof. Even for those living abroad or far away, returning home to participate in Kuchi Bhowe is considered essential.

Nawami: Syaku Tyaku and Mohani Sina

On Nawami, rituals focus on the worship of the family deity (Kul Devata) and the symbolic objects that represent various aspects of life.

  1. Symbolic Offerings:
    • Kupindo (ash gourd): Represents the demon or negativity to be defeated.
    • Ukkhu (sugarcane) and Aduwa (ginger): Symbolize anger and resentment, which are offered to the deity during the puja.
  2. Worship of Tools:
    This day honors the tools and implements used in daily life. Farmers worship their farming tools, carpenters their workshop equipment, and for those in modern professions, even laptops can be a part of the ritual! This practice acknowledges the importance of tools in shaping one’s livelihood and encourages gratitude for them.
  3. Mohani Sina (Anjana Bishes):
    The central element of Mohani, Mohani Sina, is created by burning a wick made from cloth in maize (makka dalu). The black soot that emerges is believed to hold divine power. Applying this soot around the eyes is thought to bring wisdom (gyan ko chakshu). This soot is later prepared into tika, symbolizing knowledge and enlightenment, and becomes a key part of the festival.

Dashami: Challan and The Lesson of Mohani

On Dashami, the rituals focus on defeating negativity and imparting valuable lessons:

  1. Symbolism of Rituals: A kupindo (ash gourd) is placed at the center, flanked by ukkhu (sugarcane) and aduwa (ginger), symbolizing the defeat of anger and negativity. A khadga (sword) representing wisdom (Pragya) is used to cut the kupindo, enacting the symbolic victory over evil forces. Each family member takes turns in this act, emphasizing that wisdom can help overcome obstacles in life.
  2. The Essence of Mohani:
    More than a celebration, Mohani serves as a learning festival. It teaches the importance of family unity, the value of tools and hard work, and the triumph of wisdom over negativity.

Cultural Significance of Mohani

Mohani reflects the Newar community’s deep connection to their heritage and philosophy. Every element, from the symbolic Mohani Sina to the worship of tools and family rituals, carries profound meaning. It emphasizes gratitude, self-awareness, and the shared responsibility of fostering unity within the family and community.

For the Newars, Mohani is not merely a festival but a time to reinforce their cultural identity and values, making it a uniquely enriching experience within Nepal’s diverse traditions.

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