Class 9, Unit 6, Writing II: Unique Custom of Nepal
Bel Bibaha Every newari woman goes through three different marriage rituals in her lifetime; Bel Bibaha(marriage with wood apple), Bahra ceremony(marriage with the sun) and marriage with a boy. Bel Bibaha or commonly known as ‘Iha’ is a ceremony in Newar community in which pre-adolescent girls are married to wood apple fruit. The wood apple fruit is a symbol for Lord Kumar, son of Lord Shiva(one of the most divine deities in Hinduism) as a bridegroom. The significance of this ritual is to ensure that the girl remains chaste and fertile for the rest of her life. She will also be sheltered in case her real husband dies as she is considered to be married to Lord Kumar and not considered a widow.