Sithi

 The term Sithi, though very much considered as a Newari term these days, has actually Sanskrit origin. Its correct form is Sasthi which in Sanskrit means 6th day of the fortnight. As this  auspicious day is associated with the six-headed god Kumar, the elder son of Lord Shiva, it has its own interpretation as six senses.  Whenever one becomes capable enough to control all these six senses and set them to work harmoniously he is sure to have an easy access to the realization of God. Kumara. The six heads of Kumar has six distinctive names as well suuch as Kartikeya, Gangeya, Skanda Sarvanabha, Sadanana, and Subrahmanya. As a matter of fact, he has many other names and forms, but the above six names attribute to his charisteristics. His   most commonly used name, however, is Kumar. 

According to Prranic version, Kumar was born form the effulgent eye of Lord Shiva. Hence he is the eternal child of divine light and love. Kumar is also worshipped as the incarnate wisdom of all ages and  the bright  spiritual brilliance for ever. He is also a holder of Trinity being symbolic of all three natural qualities known as Sattwik or creative, Rajasik or preservative and Tamasik or destructive. He is therefore an embodiment of Truth, Beauty and Goodness all three aspects of divinity in one. 

The colourful procession of Sithi Dyo (Kumar) begins when the miniature statue of Sithi Dyo is enshrined in a nicely decorated man-borne chariot which is to be carried out through the main thoroughfare of the town. The ceremonial procession actually starts from Nhugah Bahal near Jaisidewal, Kathmandu . This deity becomes the main attraction throughout the festival.

Kumar appears to have developed good link with the agricultural life and gained high popularity among the farmers. His association with water spirits seems to have originated from the Ganga or the Gangeya theme. This may be the origin of the old custom of this country to clean the neighbourhood pods, pools and wells on the Sithi Day. 

This festival marks the  end of the entire chain of the festivals which begin with the first festival known as Gathe Mangal in the month of Shrawan (July). This days is also regarded as the Daughter’s day.