Kathmandu: Chancellor of the Nepal Academy (NA), Bhupal Rai, emphasized the importance of celebrating Teej as a festival of women’s liberation and change. At a special Teej program organized by the Social Science Department and trade unions at the NA on Sunday, Chancellor Rai called upon Nepali women to use the festival as a platform to combat discrimination.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Chancellor Rai highlighted that Teej serves as a conduit for expressing women’s struggles and emotions. He encouraged women to leverage their performances during the festival to raise public awareness against corruption. Vice Chancellor of NA, Bimal Niva, echoed these sentiments, proposing that Teej be celebrated not only as a social and familial gathering but also as an occasion to address societal inequalities.
Dr. Madhusudan Giri mentioned that the celebration of Teej originated from an agreement between the Kirat and Shaiva communities. Baba Basnet added that the festival could be a starting point for broader discourse. Dr. Kaushila Risal underscored the importance of eradicating superstitions associated with the festival.
Sita Sharma raised concerns about Rishipanchami, stating that it tarnishes women’s dignity. Dr. Pratibha Pun and Dr. Chuda Prasad Dhakal reflected on the impact of digital disruption on festivals, emphasizing the need to reconnect these celebrations with nature.