Bhadra 13, Dhading – The celebration of Chhonam festival is highly affected by the corona virus pandemic this year. The festival also known as ‘Nwagi’ observed in the Chepang community living in Dhading, Gorkha, Chitwan and Makawanpur.
Chepang is one of the 59 indigenous inhabitants of Nepal enlisted by the government. Among them, Chepang belongs to the the most marginalized community. Tilak Chepang said the festival carries religious and cultural importance and thus, Chepang community has been demanding a public holiday for its celebration since 2062 BS.
“Chepangs are residing in 26 districts with the population of 68 thousands,” he said. “Among them, 24 thousands have their settlements in Dhading alone including 17 thousand in Benighat Rorang, six thousand in Gajuri and one thousand in Thakre rural municipality.”
Chhonam (Nwagi) – An introduction
Chhonam (Nwagi) is observed every year in the month of Bhadra mostly on Monday. Chepangs worship their deity during this festival. Especially, newly harvested grains and fruits are offered to the god. Chepangs start to consume the harvest only after the celebration of this festival. There is a belief in their commmunity that their deity will be angry; as a result, misfortune will take place and the harvesting will not be good if they do not offer these grains to the deity first.
All the people gather at the Pande(Jhankri)’s house along with paddy, lime, arum, alcohol, rooster etc. to make offerings to the god. Their relatives including married daughters and sisters are invited.
Chepang Pandes enchant mantras for the whole night and present offerings to god and prays for thier well-being, happiness and better harvest in the following years. The sagun brought by invitees is served, youngsters sing dohori songs and they start to fall in love with each other.
