Mother's Day (Mata Tirtha Aunshi)
03/05/2011
Place of event: Mata Tirtha
Those who have lost their mothers pay tribute by donating a set of cereals, money and other items, collectively called 'Pinda' to priests (Bramhins). They also join in a special religious fete held exclusively on this day at MataTirtha, a Hindu shrine situated south-west of Kathmandu. For this reason, this festival is also known as 'Mata Tirtha Aunshi'.
Of the two ponds at this place, worshippers take a ceremonial bath. Afterwards, they look at the surface of the upper pond, remembering their mothers. It is believed that in ancient times, people could see reflections of their mothers on the water surface of this very pond.
Tourists may find this place overcrowded on this particular day. However, it is worth paying a visit just to see how deeply rooted the religious beliefs and cultural values are in the minds of Nepalese even today.
Meet Rajendra Prasad Sapkota and Outdoor Himalayan Treks, your local connection in Kathmandu. Starting as a young porter, Rajendra has all the local knowledge that will make your trip to Kathmandu life changing. With us, visitors experience remote villages, meet local people, and gain insight into our culture. We support local villages, and have even built a local orphanage to house and educate displaced, and often outcast, children. We hope to bring you a journey that will be enriching, but will also help those in need in Kathmandu.
