Significance of Toran-La

Happy Holi from Jimbu Thakali Family! #ToranLaWithJimbu

Toran-La is an important example of the rich Nepali culture. It is celebrated with delicacies, rituals and long-run tradition. The Thakali clan from Nepal, celebrate Toran-La when most people in Nepal are coloring themselves with different colors on Holi or Falgun Purnima. It is biggest festival amongst the Thakali clan. Its significant festival for the Thakali people. It is equivalent to Dashain which is celebrated by the Hindus. Therefore, each year they celebrate it by worshiping their ancestors and forefathers. It usually falls on the first month of Thakali Calendar. The hard-work done by the forefathers of the Thakali people is appreciated during this festival and it is the main essence of the festival.

Toran-la also the time when people clean their household, purchase new apparels and cook delicious meals for their family that has gathered. It is usually a three-day festival. The three nights of this festival which is day before, the day and the day-after the full moon or Purnima as known in Nepal. A special element called “Khimi” is prepared during this three-day festival. This element is specially prepared and offered to the ancestors.

The women in the culture also bathe during the midnight to prepare the “Khimi”. It consists of alcohol, milk and chyang which is rice beer. It is all prepared in a bowl with ghee (purified butter) at the three ends of the bowl. The bota (traditional bowl made from leaves) also consist of varieties of vegetables, meat and which is burnt later. The smell that results after burning these ingredients is meant for the ancestors. The head of the family remembers different family members that have passed-away and other ancestors near and dear to them.

 Archery is also important component of this festival. People from villages, cities and communities gather to celebrate this festival but mostly men take part in archery and celebrate it by aiming for the heart of the dummy. Women are seen clad in traditional Thakali outfit which is called ‘Noghan Cholo’. Women of Thakali Community also celebrate Women Empowerment. They are amazing when it comes to culture and making positive decision.  People also play cards during Toran-La. The Thakali people also celebrate Holi like Hindu generally do which involves water and lots of colors. Therefore, generally it is a joyful day filled with friends, family and food.

The chyang is also a big part of this main Toran-la day and delicacies like mutton kababs, different pickles, selroti, etc., is enjoyed by everyone. Therefore, Toran-la is the time to remember the people that have passed on and appreciate the role they have played to build a strong and healthy community. It also involves enjoying the day with people that are already in it. Therefore, the merriness of the family gathering and also paying respect to the ancestors for their contribution is the core part of this festival.