SaatGaule Jatra: A Celebration of Devotion, Culture, and Tradition.

"SaatGaule Jatra"  is one of the most vibrant and revered festivals celebrated in the western part of the Kathmandu Valley, particularly at the Bishnu Devi Temple located in Thinthana, Chandragiri Municipality.This annual event is a witness to the rich cultural heritage and deep-rooted traditions of the local communities. The name "SaatGaule" itself carries a special meaning: Saat means "seven," and Gaule refers to the "villages." The festival brings together participants from seven villages — Thinthana,Naikap, Satungal, Boshigaun, Lunkot, Machhegaun, Kirtipur, and Panga — each playing a vital role in this spirited celebration.

The origin of SaatGaule Jatra is steeped in a fascinating local legend. According to ancient lore, when priests were performing rituals to honor the gods, a remarkable event occurred — seven pigeons, symbolic of the gods, unexpectedly fell into the sacred fire. This mysterious incident became the foundation for the festival, which was named after the seven pigeons. Today, the festival honors these divine figures, celebrating the bond between the gods, the community, and the land.

The SaatGaule Jatra is celebrated for three days, each day with its own significance and rituals:

Chooila Boo (Day 1): The first day is dedicated to worshiping the gods. Villagers from all participating villages bring the idols of gods and goddesses to the Bishnu Devi Temple. The idols are dressed in ornate gold jewelry, adorned with tika, flowers, and sugarcane, and are presented with various offerings. It is a day filled with reverence and devotion as the community comes together to honor their divine protectors.

Muh:ya (Day 2): The second day marks a continuation of the celebrations, with specific rituals that vary across the villages. It is a day when the spiritual energy of the festival reaches its peak, and the festivities take on a communal, joyous character. Villagers share food, songs, and dance, creating a festive atmosphere that unites everyone in celebration.

Sinaya (Day 3): The final day of the festival is dedicated to the worship of the goddesses. It is on this day that the idols of the goddesses are ritually honored and blessed. The festival reaches its climax with processions, sacrifices, and vibrant celebrations that extend late into the night.

 According to tradition, the gods and goddesses, once the part of a united family, were separated during a time of crisis.Once a year, they reunite at Bishnu Devi Temple, and this joyous occasion is celebrated by the villagers. This annual reunion at the Bishnu Devi Temple symbolizes the restoration of peace and harmony.A central aspect of the SaatGaule Jatra is the elaborate rituals and offerings made to the gods and goddesses. During the festival, the idols are adorned with precious jewelry, garlands, and other sacred offerings. A notable tradition involves the sacrifice of goats, performed as an act of devotion and respect toward the divine. These rituals, while somber, reflect the deep reverence the villagers hold for their deities.The festival is not only a religious observance but also a profound cultural expression. The sound of drums, the clamor of conch shells, and the rhythmic chanting of prayers fill the air as the community celebrates. The lively processions and vibrant dances offer a glimpse into the rich cultural fabric of the region.

At its core, SaatGaule Jatra is more than just a religious festival; it is a celebration of community, unity, and cultural continuity. The reunion of the gods and goddesses, the sacrifices, and the vibrant festivities all reflect the close ties between the people and their traditions. The festival is a reminder of the importance of maintaining a connection with the past, while also embracing the joy and togetherness of the present.

For the people of the seven villages — Thinthana,Naikap, Satungal, Boshigaun, Lunkot,  Machhegaun, Kirtipur, and Panga — SaatGaule Jatra is a cherished event, one that strengthens bonds, renews faith, and celebrates the beauty of their shared heritage. It is a festival that transcends generations, connecting the past, present, and future in a harmonious display of devotion, culture, and love.

As the third day draws to a close and the final blessings are offered at midnight, the joyous spirit of SaatGaule Jatra continues to echo through the valley, reminding all who partake in it of the timeless significance of faith, community, and tradition.