Kathmandu— Following the devastating floods in the Bhotekoshi area, Teej celebrations in Syangja, Nepal, have been largely cancelled this year. Instead of hosting traditional festivities, local municipalities, community groups, and commercial organizations have donated the funds allocated for the events to the Prime Minister's Relief Fund to support flood-affected families.

Festival Cancellations and Relief Efforts

In previous years, Teej celebrations in Syangja were marked by crowded party palaces, hotels, and other venues where women gathered to eat Dar, dance, and celebrate. However, this year, the festive atmosphere is notably absent, with all 11 local governments in the district postponing their Teej programmes. These municipalities have used the budgets allocated for the celebrations to support people affected by the floods, diverting funds to the Prime Minister's Relief Fund. Similarly, various village groups have suspended their Dar and food-distribution programmes, contributing the collected money to the relief fund. The Waling Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which traditionally organizes special Teej programmes, also postponed its events and donated the money to the relief fund, citing the significant loss of life and property caused by the floods.

Community Solidarity and Support

Pushpa Aryal, former president of the Beautician Association, Syangja, stated that the money intended for the association's Teej programme was sent to the Prime Minister's Relief Fund through the district administration. She mentioned that Rs 111,111 collected for the programme had been deposited in the fund. Padma Raj Gurung, ward chairperson and spokesperson for Waling Municipality, reported that not only the money allocated for the programme but also contributions collected through ward-level participation had been deposited in the relief fund, amounting to Rs 555,555. Anupama Dhungana Tiwari, president of the Waling Chamber of Commerce and Industry, emphasized the importance of solidarity and support, stating, 'The country is in mourning, so we postponed the programme and donated the money to the relief fund.'

By channeling their Teej budgets towards flood relief, communities in Syangja have transformed this year's festival into an occasion for solidarity and support.

(With inputs from RN)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.