Mha Puja of Tihar

Mha Puja, celebrated on the fourth day of Tihar by the Newa community of Nepal, is a unique ritual dedicated to self-purification and renewal. It is believed to cleanse the body and spirit of negative and evil forces, preparing individuals for a prosperous and healthy future. This festival also coincides with New Year's Day in the Nepal Sambat calendar, adding an extra layer of significance as it marks a fresh start to the year.

The ritual of Mha Puja involves several symbolic elements, including a Mandala, yogurt, fruits and nuts, flowers, and hand-woven cotton threads. The Mandala, which represents the universe, is intricately drawn on the floor using these elements. Each member of the family sits before their own Mandala, and the ritual is led by the senior female member of the household.

The ceremony begins when the main lady of the house places a tika on each person's forehead and lights small cotton wicks beside the Mandala, symbolizing the light of wisdom and the removal of darkness. She also offers a holy thread and a citron fruit to every family member, both of which are considered auspicious symbols of good fortune and protection from harm.

Mha Puja emphasizes the importance of self-respect and inner well-being, reflecting the belief that prosperity begins from within. By honoring the self, individuals can enter the new year cleansed, balanced, and ready to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead. This celebration not only strengthens family bonds but also serves as a reminder of personal responsibility in shaping one’s own destiny.

Compiled from various articles