Yomari Punhi: A Newari Festival of Harvest, Community, and Culinary Delights

KATHMANDU, Dec 15:Yomari Punhi, celebrated during the full moon of December, is a significant festival for the Newar community in Nepal, marking the end of the rice harvest. This year, the festival falls on December 15, marking another year of auspicious and joyous celebration. 

The origins of Yomari Punhi trace back to Panauti, where a couple named Suchandra and Krita created the first yomari—a steamed dumpling made from rice flour and filled with molasses and sesame seeds. This dish was offered to the gods and became an auspicious symbol of prosperity. The name "Yomari" combines two Newari words: "Yo," meaning "favorite," and "Mari," meaning "bread," reflecting its cherished status within the community.

During Yomari Punhi, families engage in various rituals, including offering yomaris to deities like Annapurna, the goddess of grains. Temples are visited for prayers, and neighborhoods come alive with children singing and collecting yomaris from homes—a tradition known as "Yomari Fonegu." The festival also features traditional dances and communal feasts, showcasing Newar attire and cultural heritage.

Tourists visiting Nepal during this festive period can partake in these vibrant celebrations. Local markets offer yomari-making classes, allowing visitors to learn about this culinary art firsthand. Additionally, witnessing traditional dances and rituals provides an immersive experience into Newar culture. As Yomari Punhi continues to gain recognition, it presents an opportunity for cultural tourism to flourish in the Kathmandu Valley, promoting both local traditions and economic growth.