Legend has it that only after parvati appealed to the goddess swasthani did she become Lord Shiva’s wife. For an entire month, the swasthani puja is held, where one chapter of the ancient scripture is held everyday, following which the volume is worshiped with incense and offerings. On the final day of the month, all offerings are collected and thrown into the Bagmati river. This festival is believed to bring together parted relations and elevate dismal fortunes.
Shree Panchami
Commemorating the birth of Saraswati, the goddess of learning, daughter of Shiva and Durga, Shree Panchami also marks the beginning of spring or Basanta. People flock to the temples of divinity, namely the idol behind Swayambhunath and the Saraswati Kunda in Patan on this day. The image of Saraswati is inundated with sweets, flowers and fruits, and even with objects like pens and books which are believed to be goddess’s tools. It is said that if a person swallows seven of the rice grains that have been offered to her, he/she will become wise and knowledgeable. Children between 5 to 7 years of age are initiated into education and taught their first alphabet in this day. This day is considered auspicious for marriages so most people schedule their weddings accordingly.
Paubha
It is similar to Thanka making but is of Newari in origin. It integrates distinct religious beliefs and mythological figures of Newari culture. It includes depiction of both Hindu and Buddhist deities. Cutting canvases and poster colors are the basic materials used for making Paubhas. Beside these, there are substances like stone color which is obtained by grinding rocks of varied colors and are used to attain wonderfull textures. Gold and Silver are also used to give the paintings an ornate feel. There are certain boundaries in this art because of its traditional derivations and it is not possible to experiment extensively. So, creativity must be within the boundaries while making these Paubhas.