In Bariyarpur, Nepal, the Gadhimai Festival is happening right now. It is the world’s biggest animal sacrifice event. Every five years, people come here to pray to the goddess Gadhimai for good luck and blessings.
Thousands of animals, like buffaloes, goats, and pigeons, are being killed as offerings. Many people believe this will bring them health, happiness, and success.
Huge Number of Animals Killed
The numbers are shocking. In the last festival, more than 200,000 animals were killed in just two days. This year, the numbers might be even higher.
The festival starts with five animals being offered, including a goat, a rooster, and a pigeon. After that, thousands of water buffaloes are killed in a large field. People watch and cheer as the sacrifices happen.
Protests From Animal Lovers
Animal groups like PETA and Animal Nepal want the killings to stop. They say it is cruel and not needed anymore.
Mimi Bekhechi from PETA says, “This is very painful for animals. It should end.”
In 2015, Nepal’s top court banned these sacrifices, but the rule is not being followed. Local leaders still support the festival, so it continues.
Why It’s a Problem
Killing so many animals is not just sad—it also harms the environment. The blood and waste pollute the land and water, making it unsafe for nearby villages.
Younger people in Nepal and around the world are also asking questions. They wonder if this old practice is right for today.
Can Things Change?
Animal groups suggest using flowers and fruits instead of animals for offerings. Many people in Hindu culture already do this in other festivals.
The government could help stop the sacrifices by making and following strict rules. They could also teach people about kinder ways to honor their faith.
The Bigger Picture
Around the world, more people are standing up for animals. They want traditions like this to change.
The Gadhimai Festival shows how hard it is to balance old traditions and new ideas about kindness and respect for animals.
This festival is very important to many people in Nepal. But as times change, more people ask for a way to keep the tradition without hurting animals.
Big festivals like Gadhimai can change too. People can keep their beliefs while finding kinder ways to celebrate.