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People in Tauthali observed the curd-splashing festival, a ritual held the day after Vijaya Dashami, on Wednesday. The celebration begins with an offering of curd to the local goddess Tripurasundari in the Tripurasundari Rural Municipality of Sindhupalchok district.

Believed to have started in the 13th century during the Malla dynasty, this unique tradition is practiced exclusively in Tauthali at the temple of goddess Tripurasundari every year, according to local activist Bishnu Kumar Shrestha.

At the end of the festival, participants are covered head to toe in curd, making it difficult to walk, as the entire area becomes slippery.

About 10 years ago, the sheer amount of curd splashed during the ritual would create streams of curd flowing through the area. However, the quantity has diminished in recent years as fewer farmers are rearing cattle.

As Dashain approaches, excitement and anticipation fill the air across the Himalayan nation. Families are busy preparing, with around 60–70 percent planning to travel to their hometowns for the much-cherished festival.

Local markets are bustling with activity, transforming into vibrant hubs of celebration. Stalls overflow with bright new clothes—traditional sarees, daura suruwal, and festive accessories. Shoppers move energetically, selecting the perfect outfits for the auspicious days ahead.

Street vendors call out, showcasing an array of fresh produce and decorative items for the Dashain puja, enhancing the festive atmosphere. Friends and families chat animatedly, sharing plans and stories as they shop. Children giggle, trying on new clothes and picking out gifts for their elders.

However, the Nepal Rastra Bank’s distribution of old, clean notes instead of crisp new ones has led to some dissatisfaction among the public.

This vibrant scene captures the essence of Dashain—a time of togetherness, joy, and cultural pride. As preparations continue, the spirit of the festival shines brightly, reminding everyone of the joy that awaits.

The Himalayan nation of Nepal faced catastrophic floods and landslides just two days ago, triggered by relentless heavy rainfall across the region. 

Bhumidada, a locality in Panauti Municipality, approximately 32 km southeast of the capital, Kathmandu, experienced severe impacts from Friday to Sunday due to the continued downpour. 

The collapse of roads and numerous houses has left many residents in Bhumidada in despair. At least four people have lost their lives, and many others have sustained injuries in the disaster.

Local residents have started the arduous task of cleaning their homes and salvaging belongings from the mud. 

In the wake of this tragedy, community members have expressed frustration with the government’s inadequate response in managing electricity, water sources, and relief efforts, even several days after the floods.

According to Jay Ram KC, chairperson of Panauti-12, efforts to secure relief supplies, food, temporary shelters, and electricity for the locals are underway. He noted that the director general of the water resource management committee is aware of the challenges. KC emphasized the urgent need for assistance in the affected areas.

Nepal’s urban landscape is experiencing a vibrant cultural revival, with street art becoming a powerful medium to celebrate the nation's rich heritage. In Kathmandu, Lalitpur, and along the road to Bhaktapur. Professional artists are turning ordinary spaces into extraordinary tributes to Nepalese culture.

One of the most striking displays is found on the overhead bridge leading to Bhaktapur. Here, murals depict intricate patterns and traditional symbols such as the lotus flower and ancient deities, celebrating Nepal’s spiritual heritage. In Lalitpur’s narrow alleys, the artwork is a blend of contemporary flair and classical motifs, creating a visual dialogue between past and present. Each alleyway becomes a living gallery, inviting passersby to immerse themselves in the cultural narrative.

Kathmandu’s Sundhara area has also been transformed into a canvas of cultural expression. Walls now feature elaborate mandalas and vibrant depictions of local folklore, showcasing the city’s artistic vibrancy. These art projects are supported by community groups and cultural organizations, highlighting the role of street art in preserving and promoting Nepali traditions.

This burgeoning street art scene not only beautifies the urban environment but also strengthens cultural pride and identity across Nepal.