Participants in the festival dress in women’s clothing and traditional attire such as Hali, Bause, and Bigaro, and engage in ceremonial planting with laskar. The festivities commence from Balmandir in Khalanga and proceed to Bijayanagar, located in front of the administration office.
Ananda Adhikari of the Jatra Committee highlighted the festival’s longstanding tradition, noting its role in alleviating the fatigue of local farmers. The event is celebrated with traditional dhoti, cholo, and syaku, and attracts farmers who come to witness the sowing fair despite their busy agricultural schedules.
Chitralal Shrestha, adviser of the Jatra Committee, explained that the festival began as a ritual imitation of the Ropara around the Chandannath Bhairavnath temple and commemorates Chandannath Baba’s contribution to the production of Kalimarsi paddy in Jumla. The Jatra serves as an opportunity for farmers to gather, wear new clothes, and partake in communal activities after completing their planting and harvesting tasks. It is customary for all agricultural work to be finished before the festival begins.
The Ropai Jatra draws attendees from across Jumla and neighboring districts, including Kalikot, Jajarkot, Dailekh, Mugu, and Dolpa. The festival has become a significant regional event, celebrating agricultural traditions and fostering a sense of community.
