Gaura Parva



The festival of Gaura Parva is actually the ceremonies of the wedding of Goddess Gaura and Lord Maheswore. Gauri is one of the many manifestations of Goddess Parvati, and Lord Maheswore is one of many incarnations of Lord Shiva. Thus, Gaura Parva is the celebration of the divine wedding. Gaura Parva is also known by other names such as Gauri, Gaura and Gamara. People believe that the original name of this festival was Gauri. Later on, the name Gauri has evolved first to Gaura, and then to Gamara and finally to Gora. People in general pronounce the name of Maheswore also as Mayesir. They have many holy shrines dedicated to Lord Maheswore and Goddess Parvati under different names in the mid and far western regions of Nepal. In the mid and far western regions of Nepal and adjoining areas of India, people celebrate this festival for six days beginning on the fifth day and ending on the tenth day of the bright fortnight or dark fortnight in Bhadra (August-September) in the Vikram calendar depending on the position of planets at that time. Gaura Parva falling in the bright fortnight is called “Dholi Gora” or “Ujayai Gora” means light Gaura. Gaura Parva falling in the dark fortnight is called “Anari Gaura” or “Kali Gauri” means dark Gaura. Women taking the Gaura fast for the first time begin with the light Gaura. Mostly women perform offerings to Goddess Gauri and God Maheswore on the occasion of the Gaura Parva. Men assist women in putting together all items of offerings, and in performing worship to these deities. Men participate in dancing, singing and merrymaking on equal footing with women. Women take the fast believing that the deities will bless them with children and happy lives.

Ddevotees visit Kakeshwar Temple of Hanuman Dhoka Durbar Square and SundariJal in this day..