The Gunla festival, a month-long festival celebrated by the Newa community from the first day of the bright fortnight of Shrawan to the first day of the bright fortnight of Bhadra according to the lunar calendar, began on August 13 this year.
The festival is observed with particular significance in Kathmandu Valley and various other parts of the country. It is traditionally celebrated by observing certain rules and practices aimed at promoting religious devotion, good deeds and a disciplined way of life. According to the Nepal Sambat calendar, the tenth month is known as Gunla.
The term Gũ refers to performing virtuous, beneficial and good deeds, including helping others. During the festival, devotees observe practices believed to contribute to a better life. Throughout the month, people traditionally refrain from sleeping on high beds, avoid entertainment and eat their meals on time. They also make donations wholeheartedly according to their means.
As a special fair is held at the Swayambhunath Mahachaitya throughout the month, devotees begin visiting Swayambhunath early in the morning.
Every year during Gunla, large numbers of devotees from different parts of Kathmandu travel to Swayambhunath while playing traditional Gunla musical instruments. Many devotees also visit Swayambhunath while playing Shingabhedi, a traditional instrument made from a buffalo horn, in memory of people who died during the year.
