Sakela (also Sakewa or Sakenwa) (Nepali: साकेला) is one of the main festivals of the Khambu (Rai people), an ethnic group indigenous to Eastern Nepal and the Sikkim, Kalimpong, and Darjeeling regions of India. Sakela is celebrated twice a year and is distinguished by two names: Ubhauli and Udhauli.

Jul 21, 2021 · Sakela Dongwanga is worshipped and celebrated before the cultivation of the fields begins. Khambus pray to the divine spirit for the protection of the crops and an abundant harvest. They also ask for the protection of Hangchapok (Mankind) along with all sentient beings.

Oct 11, 2019 · The ritual starts with chula puja, a worship of the chula at home by the Kirat Rai priest nakchhong. After the completion of the chula puja, nakchhong performs a sacrificial rite (usually with chicken) over a sacred place known as Sakela than, which is usually under a …

Apr 6, 2021 · Ubhauli festival, celebrated by Kirant community for a month from full moon day of Baishakh Shukla Purnima is also known as Sakela Parva.

Sakela Ubhauli is celebrated during Baisakh Purnima (full moon day, which lies in the month of Baisakh in calendars of the Indian subcontinent) and Sakela. Udhauli is celebrated during the full moon day in the month of Mangsir .

Jun 1, 2020 · This move begins with the Chula (Chulo) puja, where Chula is considered as the wellspring of food and life. The principle chief Nakchhong penances a hen in the holy spot known as Sakela Than, normally under a sacrosanct tree.

Apr 17, 2020 · Sakela/sakenwa is the main festival of the Kirat Rai community, also called worship of land (Bhumi Puja) which is celebrated twice a year distinguished by two names Ubhauli and Udhauli.

Dec 13, 2016 · Sakela Ubhauli is celebrated during Baisakh Purnima (full moon day in the month of Baishak) and Sakela Udhauli is celebrated during the full moon day in the month of Mangshir. Ubhauli puja is the worshiping of weather and wishing of enough crops.

The most important feature of this festival is Chula Puja which involves worshipping the trees. Sakela dance performed by young and old Kiratis adorned in traditional attire is both entertaining and charming. The dance itself tells the story of the relationship between humans and nature.

Nov 20, 2023 · Sakela plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of the Rai community. Through traditional dances, songs, rituals, and storytelling, the festival becomes a living repository of Rai traditions.