In a vibrant and heartfelt display of unity and advocacy, Nepal’s LGBTQ community organized colorful rallies across Kathmandu during the traditional Gaijatra festival to demand equal political rights and greater representation. The event, which coincided with the Gaijatra or Cow Festival—a cultural celebration deeply rooted in the Newar community of the Kathmandu Valley—served as a platform to commemorate deceased members of the LGBTQ community while pushing for social and legislative reforms.

The festival, observed annually to honor those who have passed away in the preceding year, traditionally features parades of cows or people dressed as cows through the streets, receiving offerings believed to aid departed souls in the afterlife. Gaijatra’s origins trace back to King Pratap Malla in the 17th century, who introduced the festival to console his grieving queen through humorous public performances highlighting the universality of death.

For over two decades, Nepal’s LGBTQ community, also referred to as LGBTI (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Intersex), has observed Gaijatra as a day of remembrance and pride, with some celebrating it as Pride Day. This year, organizations such as Maya Ko Pahichan and Blue Diamond Society (BDS) spearheaded the rallies, highlighting the urgent need for political inclusion and welfare improvements for sexual and gender minorities in Nepal.

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Sunil Babu Panta, Nepal’s first openly gay parliamentarian and chairperson of Maya Ko Pahichan, emphasized, “While we have made significant strides in securing rights and welfare for the LGBTI community, much work remains, particularly in enacting comprehensive laws that protect our people.” The rallies included the display of placards calling for equal rights, political representation, and enhanced community welfare.

This year’s rally also marked a poignant moment as it was the first since the United States, one of the largest financial supporters of LGBTQ+ rights campaigns in Nepal, ceased its aid. Despite this setback, Nepal’s LGBTQ community continues to press forward with resilience and solidarity, using Gaijatra’s traditional platform of satire and social commentary to shine a spotlight on ongoing struggles.

The government of Nepal declared a public holiday in the Kathmandu Valley in honor of Gaijatra, underscoring the cultural significance of the event and its evolving role as a forum for marginalized voices.

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