Kathmandu, the heart of Nepal, is bathed in the silvery glow of the full moon throughout the year, but for the Newar community, each full moon — or Punhi — is much more than a celestial event. It marks the arrival of a special festival, deeply rooted in tradition, spirituality, and culture. Celebrated for centuries, these Punhi festivals are a reflection of the Newar people’s respect for the moon, their gods, and their rich cultural heritage.
In this blog, we’ll take you on a journey through the twelve full moon celebrations of Kathmandu, explaining their significance and the vibrant cultural practices that surround them.
1. Baisakh (April/May) – Swanya Punhi (Buddha Purnima)
The first Punhi of the year is dedicated to Buddha Purnima, which commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Lord Buddha. Devotees across the Kathmandu Valley visit stupas and monasteries to offer prayers and light butter lamps, symbolizing wisdom, peace, and enlightenment.
2. Jestha (May/June) – Jya Punhi
Jya Punhi falls on the longest day of the year, around the summer solstice, making it both spiritually and practically significant. It is a day of rest for farmers, who believe that any work started on this day will remain incomplete. Traditionally, people enjoy a feast of Chusya-Musya (beaten rice and black lentils), and a grand fair is held in Panauti.
3. Asar (June/July) – Guru Purnima
Guru Purnima is a day to honor teachers and spiritual guides, emphasizing the importance of knowledge and wisdom. In Newar tradition, this full moon also marks the spiritual moment when Buddha was conceived in Mayadevi’s womb, adding a layer of spiritual depth to the occasion.
4. Shrawan (July/August) – Gun Punhi (Kwati Punhi)
Known as Kwati Punhi, this full moon is dedicated to the health and vitality of the community. People prepare and consume Kwati, a soup made from nine different sprouted beans. It is believed to strengthen the body, particularly during the rainy season when the body is most vulnerable.
5. Bhadra (August/September) – Yenha Punhi
Yenha Punhi marks the beginning of Indra Jatra, one of the most significant and vibrant festivals in Kathmandu. This festival celebrates Lord Indra, the god of rain, with masked dances, chariot processions, and lively street celebrations. The event is a vibrant display of Newar culture, full of music, dance, and spirituality.
6. Asoj (September/October) – Kojagrat Purnima
Kojagrat Purnima signifies the end of Dashain, Nepal’s largest festival, and is a time for families to gather and celebrate the triumph of good over evil. Devotees stay awake throughout the night, as “Kojagrat” means “who is awake” — believed to invite blessings from Goddess Lakshmi for prosperity in the coming year.
7. Kartik (October/November) – Hali Mali Punhi
Though quieter in terms of large public celebrations, Hali Mali Punhi is a time for communities to gather, celebrate local customs, and appreciate the harvest season. The evening is often marked by traditional music, dances, and prayers.
8. Mangsir (November/December) – Yomari Punhi
Yomari Punhi is one of the most beloved festivals in Kathmandu. It celebrates the end of the rice harvest and is a time for feasting and thanksgiving. The main tradition of this full moon is the preparation of Yomari, sweet dumplings filled with molasses and sesame, symbolizing prosperity and a bountiful harvest.
9. Poush (December/January) – Swasthani Punhi
The Swasthani Brata Katha begins on Swasthani Punhi, marking the start of a month-long fasting and devotional period. Devotees dedicate themselves to Goddess Swasthani, offering prayers for health, well-being, and prosperity. The festival also sees a large gathering at Mata Tirtha, where pilgrims gather for rituals.
10. Magh (January/February) – Swasthani Sakranti Punhi
As the Swasthani Brata Katha concludes, devotees perform final rituals, and the full moon marks the end of this sacred observance. This is a time of spiritual reflection and completion, where devotees thank Goddess Swasthani for her blessings and vow to continue the path of devotion.
11. Falgun (February/March) – Holi Punhi
Holi, the festival of colors, is a celebration of life, love, and the arrival of spring. On Holi Punhi, people smear each other with vibrant colors, dance, and celebrate together. It’s a joyful and chaotic occasion that symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and the spirit of renewal.
12. Chaitra (March/April) – Balanju Punhi
The final Punhi of the year is Balanju Punhi, a celebration that marks the end of the Nepali calendar year. People visit Halchowk and Balanju, where the Aakash Bhairav temple becomes a center of worship. This day coincides with Hanuman Jayanti, celebrating the birth of Lord Hanuman, adding an extra layer of devotion to the day.
Cultural Significance of the Full Moon Festivals
The Punhi festivals are not just about dates or rituals; they are woven into the very fabric of Newar culture, reflecting their deep reverence for nature, the divine, and community life. Every full moon is a reminder of the cycles of nature, the importance of time, and the need to live in harmony with both the celestial and earthly realms. Each festival allows the Newar people to connect with their roots, celebrate life’s blessings, and pass down ancient traditions to future generations.
Conclusion
As the moon waxes and wanes, so do the cycles of life, culture, and spirituality. Punhi reminds us that no matter where we are in the world, the full moon is a universal symbol of reflection, gratitude, and connection. In Kathmandu, the full moon carries with it centuries of tradition and culture, lighting up not only the sky but also the hearts of all who observe it.
