Features - Editor - 26 March 2007

Tantrism in Nepal

There have been many books written about tantrism and its complexity. The belief in spirits and the effect they are believed to have on humans and their lives. Both black and evil spirits play an important role in tantrism but it is also believed that people, who are affected by these spirits, can be healed. Nepal is a major center for tantrism and has a long and rich history that became part of Nepal as early as the seventh century. Tantrism is still thriving in Nepal, however it is questionable as to how long it will be able to survive into the future.

Features - Editor - 19 March 2007

Tihar – The Festival of Lights

There is something about the celebrations of Tihar in Nepal which make it truly special. Also known as the ‘Festival of Lights’, all houses in the cities and villages are decorated with dozens of lit oil lamps which gives them a glittering appearance at night. The festival is held in honor of the Goddess Laxmi who is the Hindu goddess of wealth and also the wife of the almighty Vishnu.

Features - Editor - 19 March 2007

The Dashain Festival

Once a year during the month of Kartik (late September, early October), the people of Nepal get ready to enjoy Dashain, the biggest festival of the year. This is the biggest and longest festival on the Nepali calendar and it is celebrated by virtually every person in Nepal, regardless of their social caste. The entire festival lasts approximately fifteen days and is a riot of color, festivity and religious rites.

Features - Editor - 12 March 2007

Nepal’s Flying Fox

Most people are apprehensive about bats but when they learn that a particular bat has a wingspan of more than four feet, they become edgy. Spawned by horror stories of vampire bats that are completely fictitious, they might assume that such a creature is a massive, blood thirsty monster. Nothing could be further from the truth. The Indian flying fox may be one of the largest bats in the world, but it is completely harmless.

Features - Editor - 05 March 2007

Nepal’s Holi Festival

The ancient Hindu festival of Holi or Phagu, which means the sacred red powder, takes place late February or early March on a full moon and is celebrated throughout Nepal. Holi is known as the festival of colors, a time when colors are celebrated, and has been thought to be named after Holika, a mythical demoness.