As Dashain and Tihar approach, the air in Nepal fills with a vibrant energy that resonates with the essence of joy and devotion. These festivals, the most celebrated among Nepali Hindus, are adorned with the rich color red—a hue symbolizing power, fertility, and the divine. Rituals are steeped in this auspicious color as families worship goddesses like Durga and Laxmi. However, amidst this celebration lies a stark contrast: for menstruating individuals, the same color that signifies devotion and festivity can be a source of exclusion and stigma.
In Nepali-Hindu culture, red is more than just a color; it is a symbol of auspiciousness and vitality. During Dashain, the offerings and the red attire worn by devotees embody the power and blessings of the goddesses. Similarly, Tihar, known as the festival of lights, sees families adorning their homes with red decorations to welcome Laxmi, the goddess of wealth. The color red is omnipresent, enveloping celebrations in an aura of sacredness and reverence.
Yet, this vibrant celebration takes a poignant turn when it comes to menstruating individuals. For many, the arrival of their menstrual cycle during these festivals translates into a harsh reality: they are often confined to a room, deemed “impure,” and excluded from the festivities. The very color that represents divine strength becomes a haunting reminder of societal taboos.
A young woman recounts her experience: "While my family dressed in red to celebrate Dashain, I was told to stay away, hidden behind closed doors. It felt like I was being punished for something so natural." Such narratives highlight the deeply ingrained double standards that persist in the shadows of festive joy.
Call for Change
As we gather to honor our deities, let us also honor one another. Families can take steps to include menstruating individuals in festival celebrations, breaking down barriers of stigma and shame. Simple gestures—like allowing participation in rituals or creating spaces for open discussions—can foster a culture of acceptance and understanding.
Change begins at home. By embracing a mindset that respects and values all individuals, we can shift the narrative around menstruation and the symbolism of red in our festivals. With the festivities around the corner, let us reflect on the duality of the color red—a symbol of strength and celebration, yet one that has the power to exclude. Together, we can work towards creating a unified celebration that honors cultural traditions while upholding the dignity of menstruating individuals.
Join us at Pad2Go in our journey towards inclusivity, where every person can celebrate their identity without fear or stigma. Let us transform the color red from a symbol of exclusion into one of collective joy and empowerment.
Thought provoking!