Thousands Gather for Nepal’s Annual Bhoot Mela at Kamala River
The annual “Bhoot Mela,” or Ghost Fair, took place on the banks of the Kamala River in Nepal, attracting thousands of attendees. This river marks the boundary between the Dhanusha and Siraha districts. Devotees gathered from early morning to perform rituals for Kartik Purnima, a day believed to ward off evil spirits and bring blessings.
Significance of the Rituals
According to tradition, bathing in the Kamala River on Kartik Shukla Purnima purifies the body and washes away sins. Bechan Das, a religious chanter from Dhanusha, explained that the water becomes sacred as saints and shamans bathe in it. The event is named “Bhoot Mela” because shamans conduct rituals to honor ancestral spirits and deities.
Participants and Rituals
Participants from various districts in Nepal and Indian cities like Madhubani and Darbhanga attended the fair. Religious chanters performed to the rhythm of traditional instruments, claiming supernatural powers to communicate with spirits. New shamans, or “Dhami,” also bathed in the river, completing their initiation with a mantra from the “Mooldhami.”
Traditions and Beliefs
Devotees collect pure water from the Kamala River to purify their homes. The day involves fasting and rituals, with families visiting clan deities. Khusilal Yadav, another chanter, described the preparations, including setting aside a sacred cloth and fasting before the full moon. The ancient city of Mithila continues to uphold its faith in Tantrism, with apprentices performing rituals to connect with deities.
Doubts Revealed
Bhoot Mela -: Bhoot Mela is a special fair or gathering where people come together to celebrate and perform rituals related to ghosts and spirits. It is a traditional event in Nepal.
Kamala River -: The Kamala River is a river in Nepal where the Bhoot Mela takes place. It is an important location for the rituals during the fair.
Kartik Purnima -: Kartik Purnima is a special full moon day in the Hindu calendar, usually celebrated in November. It is considered a holy day for performing religious rituals.
Shamans -: Shamans are people who are believed to have special powers to communicate with spirits and perform rituals. They play an important role in the Bhoot Mela ceremonies.
Tantrism -: Tantrism is a spiritual practice that involves rituals and beliefs in mystical powers. It is an important part of the cultural and religious traditions in Nepal and India.
