Celebrations

The past two weeks have been filled with joy, laughter, and a sense of pride. We had a Family celebration where we got together to offer 'sa:ga' to my son. It is a Newar way to honour achievements. My son had completed his Secondary Education Examination (SEE), formerly known as the School Leaving Certificate (SLC). And my family visited us to congratulate and give blessings.

For generations, this exam has held a near-mythical status in Nepal, often referred to as the “iron gate.” I always hated it when someone said SLC as an iron gate. It was an overrated and hyperbolised, either to scare or to overpraise the success. Now it has been renamed as SEE, the grading system has been changed, but the whole system remains the same. Behind all the shortfalls of bureaucracy and the education system, the cultural symbolic importance of SLC (SEE) remains strong; the achievement to be celebrated, no matter how small. It makes perfect sense.

In the past, passing the SLC wasn’t just a personal achievement — it was a community affair. Neighbours would celebrate, sweets would be distributed, and entire villages would beam with pride. There would be very few first division from remote districts. Today, although the academic system still struggles to fully align with Nepal’s federal model, the emotional gravity of this educational milestone remains intact, whether it is SLC or SEE. And for us, a celebration comes first, the system behind it, will discuss over the whiskey.

Planning began days in advance. The shopping lists were drawn, ingredients gathered, and the menu debated — not just for food, but for drinks and desserts too. We chose Saturday to host the programme, making it easier for working family members to attend. On the morning of the celebration, our kitchen came alive, getting ready for the pooja.

Relatives began to arrive, each carrying offerings. The 'boy of the day' was offered a boiled egg, a small fish, and a shot of alcohol. Although my son did not partake in the alcohol, the ritual was followed, offering him blessings for the journey ahead.

The day continued with more food, conversations on our days when we passed SLC, the result system and obviously, seeing how quickly kids grow. The celebration is also for everyone in the family to gather, offline, in person.

One of the newer additions to our traditional celebration was a cake. There is nothing more beautiful than a fusion of heritage and contemporary culture.

We are happy to see our son happy and being encouraged. These little celebrations and Sa:ga are more than food and tradition; they are an acknowledgement of their hard work, and they are ways to thank the family for their regular support and inspiration.

Finally, this is the month of Shrawan, women prefer Green Churaa. Slowly, this is now being adopted by newars. Why should the men be left behind? I turned vegetarian this month. 💪

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