As evening falls in the historic town of Panauti in Kavrepalanchok, traditional instruments sound through its old alleys. During Chaturmas, the four-month period from Harishayani Ekadashi to Haribodhini Ekadashi, neighbourhoods take part in religious and cultural activity that includes traditional bhajan.
The practice has a mixed outlook: reports describe it being passed down through generations in some places, while facing a crisis in others. The contrast highlights the challenges of keeping this cultural and religious tradition alive across the town.
Bhajan during Chaturmas
Chaturmas runs from Harishayani Ekadashi to Haribodhini Ekadashi. In Panauti, the period brings religious and cultural activity to neighbourhoods, with traditional instruments and bhajan heard in the old town.
A tradition with an uncertain future
Traditional bhajan continues to be transmitted across generations in some places, according to the reports. Elsewhere, the practice is described as being in crisis, underscoring that its continuity is not assured throughout the town.
