The Significance of Sithi Nakha
Sithi Nakha (सिथी नखा) is a festival celebrated at the beginning of the monsoon season, observed annually on Jestha Shukla Shashti (the sixth day of the waxing moon in the month of Jestha), which typically falls in May or June in the Gregorian calendar. Since it marks the onset of the rainy season, it is observed with activities that take this seasonal shift into account.
Traditionally, people clean wells, ponds, and other water sources as part of their cultural duty. Those who rely on these stagnant water sources for drinking ensure they are clean on this day. Additionally, since water is essential for survival, a symbolic idol of Nagaraja (King of Serpents) is worshipped, and offerings such as mercury and other substances are placed in the water as a form of reverence. Lime (calcium oxide) is also added to help purify the water.
In reality, during the continuous rainfall of the monsoon season, water levels in wells, ponds, and reservoirs rise, leading to contamination. This is why, traditionally, a collective effort was made to clean these water sources before the season began. Although installing water pipelines in modern times has reduced the dependency on traditional water sources, such practices were of great importance in earlier times when clean drinking water was not as easily accessible.
Maintenance of Homes and Temples
Once the rainy season starts, repairing houses and temples becomes difficult. If maintenance is not completed before the onset of rain, leaks and structural damage may occur, leading to deterioration over time. Hence, repairing homes and temples before the monsoon is a necessity. Following this cultural tradition, it has been customary to complete any necessary maintenance work by the time Sithi Nakha arrives. Public structures like rest houses (पौवापाटी) and temples were also repaired through communal efforts, often managed under guthi (traditional social organizations responsible for cultural and community duties).
Historical Evidence
The historical significance of Sithi Nakha is further supported by an inscription from the reign of King Yaksha Malla in 1510 BS (1453 CE). During that time, Bhaktapur was constructed as a fortified city, surrounded by a deep moat as its outermost defense. Inside the moat, tall walls encircled the city, with security posts stationed at various locations. The maintenance of these defensive structures including the walls and the moat, was a collective responsibility shared by people of all social classes, including Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras. Each community was responsible for maintaining the section assigned to them.
Neglecting such duties, which were crucial for national security, led to strict penalties. These regulations were explicitly documented in King Yaksha Malla’s inscription, which stated that the repair work for moats and walls had to be completed by the time of Sithi Nakha.
Conclusion: Cultural and Practical Importance of Sithi Nakha
From these historical and cultural practices, it is evident that Sithi Nakha holds great importance in preparing for the monsoon season. Unfortunately, many of these traditional customs have faded in modern times. However, the festival remains deeply significant as it is linked to essential aspects such as national defense, public health, and self-preservation. By preserving and continuing these traditions, we acknowledge the wisdom of our ancestors in maintaining environmental and societal well-being. The cultural legacy of Sithi Nakha should never be forgotten.
References
- Nepali Chad-Parbaharu Ko Bibechana, Mana Bajra Bajracharya, 1968