Why Do Nepalis Eat Curd and Beaten Rice on Asar 15?

Every year on Asar 15, Nepalis across the country celebrate by enjoying a traditional meal of dahi chiura—curd (yogurt) and beaten rice. The day is also officially marked as National Paddy Day, recognizing Nepal’s agrarian roots.

This tradition, passed down through generations, is deeply embedded in Nepali culture. Historically, farmers consumed curd and beaten rice to regain energy after exhausting work during the rice planting season. The belief is that this combination helps cool the body and replenish strength.

Why Is Curd and Beaten Rice Eaten Specifically on Asar 15?

Ask anyone, and the answer is usually the same: “Because it’s always been done that way.” But cultural experts explain that the practice began as a way to celebrate the timely completion of rice planting. Over time, this joyful post-harvest meal evolved into a symbolic ritual fixed on Asar 15.

Today, curd and beaten rice are available in markets year-round. However, in the past, farmers lacked the resources or time to cook elaborate meals during planting season. Most rural households kept cows or buffaloes, ensuring a steady supply of milk to make curd, buttermilk, and ghee. Similarly, beaten rice was a staple in homes that cultivated their own paddy.

This readily available and nutritious food became the perfect choice for a quick, energy-restoring meal. It didn’t require lengthy preparation, making it ideal for hardworking farmers.

Dahi Chiura: A Festival Beyond Farming

Though its origins lie in agriculture, Asar 15 is now celebrated by Nepalis from all walks of life, regardless of their profession. Eating dahi chiura has become a national symbol of cultural pride and unity.

In Nepali tradition, curd holds a sacred value. It is often mixed with rice grains (akshata) and applied as a red tika on the forehead before setting out for important journeys or events. Eating curd before such events is considered auspicious.

Health Benefits of Curd and Beaten Rice

From a scientific perspective, curd is known to aid digestion and boost immunity. According to legend, the sage Gorakhnath predicted that King Prithvi Narayan Shah, unifier of modern Nepal, would become a great warrior after consuming curd.

In Ayurveda, drinking buttermilk at the end of a meal is considered so beneficial that it eliminates the need to visit a doctor. A well-known Sanskrit verse says:
“Bhōjanāntē pibēt takram vaidyasya kim prayōjanam?”
—“If you drink buttermilk after meals, what need is there for a physician?”

Curd and beaten rice are also effective remedies for diarrhea and other digestive issues, adding practical value to this tradition.

National Paddy Day: A Celebration of Agriculture

Nepal began officially observing National Paddy Day on Asar 15, 2062 BS (June 29, 2005), following a ministerial decision made on Mangsir 29, 2061 BS.

As a primarily agricultural country, most Nepalis depend on farming. Asar is the busiest month for rice planting, and on Asar 15, people sing folk songs and participate in planting while playing in the mud. Popular lyrics include:

“Chhupu ra chhupu hilo ma,
Dhaan ropera chodoula
Banai kulo lagai,
Pani aayera godoula.”

During the peak of summer, young men and women celebrate by splashing mud and dancing in fields. Many believe that stepping into the mud during Asar is a must at least once a year.

Final Thoughts

Asar 15 has grown into a national cultural festival in Nepal, symbolizing gratitude, harvest, health, and heritage. Whether in villages or cities, eating dahi chiura on this day connects people to their roots and reminds them of the country’s agrarian backbone.