On July 15, 2024, in Lalitpur, Nepal, young girls from the Newar community participated in the traditional Bel Bibaha ceremony. This ceremony, also known as Ihi, holds cultural significance within the Newar community, where pre-adolescent girls are symbolically married to the sacred bael fruit.
The Bel Bibaha ceremony marks an important rite of passage for girls in the Newar community, signifying their transition towards womanhood. During the ceremony, the girls are adorned in traditional attire, including vibrant dresses and jewelry, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Nepal.
The ritual itself involves various symbolic gestures and rituals performed under the guidance of religious priests and elders. Central to the ceremony is the symbolic marriage of the girls to the bael fruit, which is considered auspicious and representative of Lord Vishnu in Hindu mythology.
Participants and attendees of the ceremony expressed deep reverence for the traditions upheld during Bel Bibaha. Families and community members gathered to witness and celebrate this cultural milestone, highlighting the importance of preserving and passing down traditional customs.
Bel Bibaha not only reinforces cultural identity but also strengthens community bonds among the Newar people. It serves as a reminder of the rich cultural tapestry of Nepal and the enduring customs that connect generations.
As the ceremony concluded, participants and families shared traditional meals and exchanged blessings, marking the culmination of a significant cultural event that continues to be cherished and respected within the Newar community.
