15/02/2026
Sila Charey ( Shivaratri)
Today Maha Shivaratri (February 15),
In Newari culture, Shivaratri is known as Sila Chahre (or Silachahre), falling on the 14th day of the waning moon in the month of Sila (equivalent to Falgun). It is celebrated with fasting, night-long prayers (Jagarana), cleaning homes, and lighting bonfires, often involving children collecting "Chekkey" (voluntary donations) from drivers for the fires.
Key Aspects of Sila Chahre (Newari Shivaratri):
Significance: It is considered the main night among 24 annual nights dedicated to Lord Shiva, representing the victory of light over darkness and the worship of Shiva as the destructor.
Celebration: Locals, particularly in the Kathmandu Valley, perform pujas (worship) at various Shiva temples, including the paramount Pashupatinath.
Traditions:
Bonfires: People light fires in the evening, often using money collected by local youth (Guthi) from passing vehicles.
Cleaning: Homes are cleaned, and special incense is burned to remove pests and negative energy.
Rituals: Some traditions include children discarding old dolls and people wearing a special metal ring called "Chahray Angu".
2026
The festival marks a period of deep spiritual, cleansing, and communal gathering for the Newar community, blending traditional Hindu practices with unique local customs. ..Copied..
