12th Rastriya Topi Diwas celebrated in Basantapur
Jagrit Yuva Abhiyan Nepal celebrated the 12th Rastriya Topi Diwas with grandeur. Activists gathered in Basantapur, Kathmandu, on Wednesday, exchanging greetings under the slogan “Respect for all attire, Nepali topi is Nepal’s identity,” to mark Rastriya Topi Diwas.
Addressing the event, the campaign coordinator, Ghanshyam Shrestha, mentioned that the event was organized to preserve and promote the Nepali topi (hat). He expressed happiness that the event, which started 12 years ago with difficulties, has now spread across Nepal and abroad. Shrestha stated that the Nepali topi campaign is not against any other campaign and pointed out that some elements are trying to make it controversial. He urged the government to declare the Dhaka topi and Bhadgaun ko Kalu topi, which have long been symbols of Nepal, as national identities.
Ramji Balami, an activist shared that the Nepali hat is recognized by the global community, making it an identity of Nepal. He emphasized the need to promote all cultural attires and called for the government to take initiatives for further promotion of the Nepali topi.
Janardan Paudel, an activist mentioned that the Nepali hat represents the Himalayas, hills, and Terai, making it a shared identity of all Nepalis. Paudel explained that Rastriya Topi Diwas was started on January 1st to give a Nepali touch to the English New Year.
Gyanmani Nepal, an activist stated that the black hat is a matter of personal freedom to wear or not. He also emphasized that promoting Nepali products is the responsibility of every citizen.
The event saw a large presence of people of all ages, from children to the elderly, and young men and women. Jagrit Yuva Abhiyan Nepal has been celebrating National Hat Day every year on January 1st to preserve and promote the Nepali hat.
In the Nepali dictionary, a hat or headgear is defined as a piece of cloth sewn into a circle, designed to cover the head, enhance its appearance, or protect it. The Dhaka and Bhadgaun topi, regardless of how they arrived or expanded, have now become a proud symbol of Nepal, recognized worldwide.
