Janku: A Newari Custom
The world has been enriched with thousands of different cultures. Nepal is also rich in its unique customs and cultures. Janku is among those. Janku is a Newari custom with its own historical and cultural values, celebrated when people reach a certain age. This essay describes when it is celebrated, how it is celebrated, and its importance.
Janku is quite famous in the Newari community. There are five total Janku celebrations: 77 years, 1000 months old (roughly between 81-84 years), 88 years, 99 years, and 110 years old. In ancient times, the average life expectancy of a person was only 67 years, so when someone reached a Janku age, it was like they were given a new life. After their last Janku is performed, elderly people in the Newari community are considered as symbols of divinity. The date for celebrating Janku is calculated by the priest based on the lunar calendar. After the second Janku, the person is given the "Thakali" status and is respected equally to gods or goddesses.
Janku is celebrated by the family members dressing the man in his finest attire, and the woman looking like a new bride. The man or woman is treated like a bridegroom or bride, visiting different temples and vihars. Various Janku rituals are performed to please the gods and seek help to overcome problems. It is a very important celebration in the life of the Newar community. Janku is celebrated according to birth dates. The significance of this celebration is related to Newari texts, which mention that Janku celebration ages mark auspicious times in a person's life when even the smallest threat may pose a serious risk to one's life.
Janku is a custom that respects the spirituality and wisdom of the elderly. Janku is quite important because it celebrates and congratulates long, healthy living within Newari culture. It symbolizes a long life and provides respect to the elders.
By,
Kohinoor Karki
Grade 9
Modern English Secondary School
Bhaktapur
No comments:
Post a Comment