Gaura Parva: Festival Of Wedding of Goddess Gaura with Lord Maheswore

Gaura Parva is one of the most vibrant and culturally rich festivals celebrated in the mid and far-western regions of Nepal and parts of India. This six-day festival marks the divine wedding of Goddess Gauri (a manifestation of Goddess Parvati) and Lord Maheswore (an incarnation of Lord Shiva). Steeped in religious significance, Gaura Parva reflects the deep-rooted traditions and communal harmony of rural Nepal.

Origins and Names of Gaura Parva

The festival’s origins can be traced back to the worship of Goddess Gauri. Over time, the name Gauri evolved into Gaura, and later into regional variations like Gamara and Gora. Similarly, Lord Maheswore is locally referred to as Mayesir in these regions. Numerous holy shrines dedicated to this divine couple exist across Nepal, symbolizing their spiritual importance.

When is Gaura Parva Celebrated?

Gaura Parva is celebrated annually during the month of Bhadra (August-September) as per the Vikram Calendar. The festival starts on the fifth day and concludes on the tenth day of either the bright fortnight (Dholi Gora) or dark fortnight (Anari Gaura). Women observing the fast for the first time begin with the bright fortnight celebrations.

The Significance of Gaura Parva

This festival is primarily a women-centric celebration where fasting, rituals, and worship play a pivotal role. Women believe that their devotion to Goddess Gauri and Lord Maheswore will bless them with children, happiness, and a prosperous life. While women perform the main offerings, men actively assist, participate in dances, and contribute to the festivities.

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Day-by-Day Rituals of Gaura Parva

Day 1: Soaking the ‘Birudou’

• The festival begins with the ritual of soaking five grains (known as ‘Birudou’) in water.
• Women, dressed in clean and fresh clothes after a purification bath, gather at the house of the Chief Gauri (Budhi Gora).
• The ceremony involves singing religious songs and visiting every household in the area.

Day 2: Washing the Birudou

• Women carry pots of soaked grains (Birudou) to a nearby water source, sometimes traveling up to three kilometers.
• The washing of the grains is accompanied by traditional songs and dances as women return to their homes with great joy.

Day 3: Collecting the ‘Gamara’

• Women create idols of Goddess Gauri (Gamara) using plants collected from rice fields.
• These idols are ceremonially carried from one house to another with musical bands, symbolizing the arrival of the divine goddess.

Day 4: Worship of Goddess Gauri and Lord Maheswore

• The idols of Gauri and Maheswore are worshipped in the Budhi Gora house.
• Women perform sacred rituals and make offerings using Birudou, symbolizing their devotion.
• Youth participate in Dueda, a traditional dance similar to Dohari songs, featuring poetic exchanges between men and women.

Day 5: Wearing Sacred Threads

• Devotees wear seven-knot threads as a symbol of liberation from seven worlds.
• Women dance and celebrate while carrying idols of Lord Maheswore, marking a night of festivities with music and cultural performances.

Day 6: Bubo Dhago and Distribution of Blessings

• Women wear threads with eighty-four knots (Bubo Dhago) to attain liberation from the cycle of rebirth (8.4 million life forms).
• Religious rites are performed, and Birudou is distributed as divine blessings.
• A special men-only dance called Dhamari is performed, showcasing traditional rhythms and steps.

Day 7: The Divine Wedding of Gauri and Maheswore

• The festival culminates with the grand wedding ceremony of Gamara (Gauri) and Lord Maheswore.
• Women assemble the idols of Gauri (Gamara) and Lord Maheswore at the Budhi Gora house for final rituals.
• The event concludes with singing, dancing, and vibrant celebrations lasting through the night.

Day 8: Farewell and Final Rituals

• On the final day, devotees take the idols of Budhi Gora and Maheswore to a community courtyard and then to the temple of Pashupati.
• The idols are ceremonially burned, marking the end of the festival.
• The community gathers to watch the swapping of idols between villages, a symbolic act of unity and devotion.

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Songs, Dances, and Cultural Significance

Throughout Gaura Parva, traditional folk songs narrate the lives of Gauri and Maheswore. These songs also highlight the struggles and triumphs of rural women, drawing parallels to the divine story. Performances like Dueda and Dhamari bring communities together, fostering joy, love, and cultural pride.

Youth groups often engage in Dohari songs – playful exchanges of love and humor – despite reservations from elders. This cultural mix of tradition and modernity keeps Gaura Parva alive and relevant for all generations.

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Conclusion

Gaura Parva is more than just a religious festival; it celebrates life, love, and community. Through its intricate rituals, soulful music, and joyful dances, the festival preserves the rich cultural heritage of Nepal’s mid- and far-western regions. For devotees, Gaura Parva is a time to seek divine blessings, honor their traditions, and strengthen bonds within the community.

If you wish to experience Nepal’s vibrant culture and spirituality, visiting Gaura Parva will provide a unique and unforgettable glimpse into the country’s traditions and festivals.

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