Bhuwa Parba, an indigenous and historic cultural festival of Sudurpaschim Province, is being observed across the region with traditional fervour, cultural performances and ritual enactments that reflect the province's rich heritage.

The festival, which is celebrated with special significance in Bajura, Bajhang and Achham, has also gained increasing visibility in the Terai districts of Kailali and Kanchanpur in recent years. To mark the occasion, the Sudurpaschim Province Government has declared a public holiday on December 19, closing government offices and public institutions across the province.

Rooted in religious belief and oral tradition, Bhuwa Parba is associated with the Mahabharata epic, particularly the victory of the Pandavas over the Kauravas during the Dwapara Yuga. The festival is observed as a celebration of bravery, victory and communal unity.

According to Dil Bahadur Budha, former ward chairperson of Shuklaphanta Municipality–11, the traditional Bhuwa dance performed during the festival symbolises courage and martial strength. He noted that migration from the hill districts to the Terai has contributed to the growing vibrancy of the festival in urban centres.