“Times have changed, and it’s not possible for people to abide by old rituals,” opined Dr Roop Jyoti Kansakar, Head of Uaadya Samaj. [break]
He added, “We understand that by changing laws only won’t make things different all at once, nor does everybody have to put up with new customs, either. So, those who desire to follow the old rituals are always free to do so, but those who may have difficulties to abide by such practices may choose the modified ones.”
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Another cultural event of the Udaaya (Urai) Newars, who adhere to the Buddhist faith, is the Gunla.
This is their traditional music festival that will bring together people, especially the youths of the Udaaya Samaj.
Also, it will be a rare event for people outside the Udaaya Samaj and tourists visiting the Durbar Square, as there will be artists playing 100 drums at a time.
“The drummers are aged between seven to seventy years, and female participation can also be seen,” informed Ratna Kaji Tuladhar, General Secretary of Udaaya Samaj.
The event will take place at Hanuman Dhoka of the Kathmandu Durbar Square at Basantpur on Saturday, September 17 at 3 pm. Entry is free for all.
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