Ever wondered what it’s like to dance in the mud, plant rice with your bare hands, and celebrate farming like a festival? Welcome to Ropain Jatra, a joyful tribute to rice, rain and nature.
It’s the 15th of Ashar, the third month on the Nepali calendar (late June or early July). People dance and sing in the paddy fields, carefree of the mud and dirt.
Later, they clean up and gather to share the special delicacy of the day – Dahi Chiura – yoghurt with beaten rice. It is the Ropain Festival.
Also known as Dahi Chiura eating day, people call it ‘Sina Jya Jatra’ (Newari) or ‘Chopai Jatra’ in the midwest and far western regions. The festival of Ropain celebrates farmers and farming and carries the charm of togetherness and communality.
Since it’s monsoon, farmers plant new rice seedlings, wishing to grow quintals of rice. And it goes without saying – rice is more than a staple grain; it is a way of life.
On 14 December 2004, the government declared Ashar 15 as National Paddy Day under the theme “Increase rice production for self-sufficiency and prosperity.” This cherished tradition embodies the hopes and hard work of an agrarian society deeply connected to its land and heritage. The festival honours the dedication and labour of farmers who ensure food ends up on our plates.
The planting ritual usually starts with farmers lining up in the field. They apply mud as a form of tika and carry seedlings on their heads as a sign of gratitude to the land that will feed them through the new season.
They also splash mud on each other, embracing the spirit of the festival. They perform traditional Ashare Jhyaure songs, which are monsoon tunes, while dancing. They cultivate sprouts and offer prayers. As the day ends, the community comes together to enjoy Dahi Chiura, a nostalgic moment of Ropain Jatra. People usually enjoy it with fruits, especially mangoes and bananas, so they can relive those times in the comfort of their own homes.
Today, many places like Khokana and Pokhara host events. Renowned Nepali celebrities join friendly activities such as tug-of-war and races with farmers, blending seamlessly into the crowd.
This celebration bridges the gap between fame and everyday life. It reminds us that no matter our background or status, we all remain connected to nature.
Before agricultural mechanisation arrived, rice planting involved hands-on labour. The men ploughed the fields and arranged the drainage system, while the women planted the saplings.
Even today, many farmers live in rural areas without proper irrigation. They sow seeds and plant saplings in hopes of a good harvest. For centuries, when the first rainfall came, farmers rejoiced and felt renewed hope. So they cheer and celebrate the successful plantation.
Over the generations, people have celebrated Ashar 15 with gusto, keeping the tradition alive. The day offers the perfect opportunity to learn rice planting and create beautiful memories.
More than just a festival, Asar 15 reminds us to stay connected with nature. It’s like a fresh breath of air amid the hustle and bustle of modern city life.
Pratikshya Bhatta is a junior editor with Nepal Connect.
