The vibrant Street Newa Food Festival began on Saturday in Dhading Besi, Dhading, showcasing the rich heritage of Newari cuisine and culture. Organized by the Jhingu Newa Society under the slogan, “Eat on the Street, Enjoy on the Street, Earn on the Street,” the event aims to promote national and international recognition of Newari traditions, including language, food, apparel, and cultural practices.
Rajkumar Shrestha, President of the Jhingu Newa Society, expressed optimism about the festival’s impact on reviving the fading aspects of Newari culture. “We hope this festival will breathe new life into the Newari way of life. The enthusiastic participation of the people has been highly encouraging,” he said.
The festival offers a delightful array of traditional Newari foods, including Yomari, Chatamari, Bara Chhoila, Mushroom Chhoila, and Soyabin Chhoila, prepared and served along the street. “We’ve also organized a cultural program on one side of the street while Newari delicacies are being made and served on the other,” Shrestha shared.
The two-day festival is expected to attract over 1,500 attendees, providing an opportunity to savor authentic Newari dishes while immersing themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the Newar community. The event also aims to educate visitors about the Newari way of life, including their culinary artistry and traditions.
Running from 2 PM to 8 PM daily, the festival is organized by the Jhingu Newari Society of Dhading with the patronage of Nilkantha Municipality-3. This initiative not only highlights the cultural richness of the Newar community but also seeks to boost local tourism and community participation.
The Street Newa Food Festival promises to be an unforgettable celebration of flavors, traditions, and community spirit in Dhading.