Kathmandu. Kathmandu: Gunla festival is being celebrated in Kathmandu Valley today.

Gunla is the tenth month of The Nepal Samvat, which according to the Gregorian calendar falls in the last month of July or August.

This month is considered very sacred for the Newar Buddhist community. During this period, devotees recite religious texts, observe fast and visit places of worship by playing devotional music. The Festival of Gunla originated from the rainy season of Buddhist tradition, when during the Time of Buddha, monks used to sit in one place and preach religion.

For a month, the Newar Buddhist community performs traditional instruments such as Dhime, Bhusya and offers prayers at Swayambhunath, Vihara and Bahals to pay homage to Buddha’s teachings.

Photo: Safal Prakash Shrestha – Nepal Photo Library