TEWAN to Host Third Teej Cultural Festival in Lakeside, Pokhara

Pokhara – The Tourism Entrepreneur Women’s Association Nepal (TEWAN) will organize the Third Teej Cultural Festival–2082 on Bhadra 10 and 11 at Barahighat, Lakeside, Pokhara. The festival, held on the occasion of Haritalika Teej, is expected to attract over 10,000 participants, mainly women from all 11 districts of Gandaki Province.

Speaking at a press conference, TEWAN President Shobha Nyaupane Pandey said the festival aims to revive traditional Teej songs in an open space, promoting women’s cultural participation and tourism.

Festival Coordinator Shanta Timilsina shared that the event will feature a Teej song competition, sports contests, and various cultural programs. Prizes for the song competition range from NPR 35,000 for first place to consolation prizes for ten groups. Outstanding dance performances will also be rewarded.

TeWAN Secretary Shobha Adhikari Paudel announced a grand rally starting at 10:30 a.m. on the first day, followed by the festival inauguration and the start of the song competition. The second day will host sports events like tug-of-war, ghaito breaking, and sari races, along with two women empowerment discussion sessions.

Former TEWAN President Kamala Giri emphasized that the festival plays a key role in promoting traditional attire, folk music, dances, local cuisine, and crafts to the international community. The festival budget is estimated at NPR 1.7 million.

Officials including Pokhara–6 Ward Chair Bishnubahadur Bhattarai, Pokhara Tourism Council Chair Taranath Pahari, and Ganeshbahadur Bhattarai of the Tourism Entrepreneurs expressed support, highlighting the festival’s role in boosting tourism and the local economy.

The festival is promoted by Pokhara Metropolitan City and the Nepal Tourism Board, with support from Gandaki Province Government, relevant ministries, and the Pokhara Tourism Council.