Kathmandu, Aug. 21 -- When women across Nepal's far-western region gather in late summer to sing deuda songs and prepare grain offerings, they are keeping alive one of the region's most distinctive traditions-Gaura Parva.

The festival, which is led primarily by women, has roots in ancient scriptures and is centred on the worship of Goddess Gaura, also known as Parvati, and her union with Lord Shiva. More than a religious ritual, Gaura Parva embodies cultural continuity, collective participation, and the reinforcement of marital bonds in society.

According to Padma Raj Kalauni, a PhD holder in political science and the president of the Sudurpachim Mahalaxmi Society in Imadol, the festival holds both cultural and spiritual significance. T...