| Date | Before Fagu Poornima (Holi) |
| Duration | One-day event |
| Observance | National (Nepal) |
| Celebrated in | Nepal, especially in traditional families and rural areas |
| Observing Communities | Nepali Hindu families across all communities |
| Type of Event | Cultural and Traditional |
| Purpose of Event | To prepare for the Fagu Poornima (Holi) festival by applying oil to the body for purification and consuming nimko (savory treats) and neem leaf preparations for health benefits. |
| Holiday Status | No (Traditional family custom, not a public holiday) |
| First Observed in | Historical Nepali tradition (medieval period) |
Quick Fact: Tel Lagaune Ra Nimko Pat Khane Din literally translates to "Oil Application and Neem Leaf Eating Day." This pre-festival tradition involves applying oil to the body for purification and consuming neem leaf preparations believed to have medicinal and spiritual cleansing properties.
Tel Lagaune Ra Nimko Pat Khane Din is a traditional Nepali observance that takes place before the Fagu Poornima (Holi) festival. "Tel Lagaune" means applying oil to the body and "Nimko Pat Khane" refers to consuming neem leaf preparations and savory treats. This tradition combines practical health benefits with spiritual preparation for the upcoming festival celebrations.
This tradition has its roots in ancient Nepali customs practiced before major festivals. Applying oil to the body before festival celebrations is believed to purify the body, nourish the skin and prepare one physically and spiritually for the festivities ahead. The consumption of neem (nimko) leaves is rooted in Ayurvedic tradition, as neem is known for its medicinal, antibacterial and blood-purifying properties. This practice combines hygiene with festive preparation and has been passed down through generations of Nepali families.
This tradition is mainly observed to:
Cleanse and purify the body in preparation for the upcoming festival celebrations.
Mark the official commencement of the festival season through traditional rituals.
Nourish the skin and hair with oil before the physical activities of Holi celebrations.
Unite family and community members in shared preparatory activities and feasting.
This day is observed through traditional family practices:
Family members apply mustard oil or sesame oil to their body and hair, followed by warm water bathing.
Neem leaves or neem-based preparations are consumed for their medicinal and purifying properties.
Special savory snacks (nimki/nimko) and traditional treats are prepared and shared.
Homes are cleaned and decorated in preparation for the upcoming festival.
Family members gather to prepare festival materials and plan celebrations together.
This tradition is important for several reasons:
It represents the transition from ordinary time into the sacred festival period.
It perpetuates centuries-old pre-festival preparation customs unique to Nepal.
It combines practical body care with spiritual readiness for celebrations.
It creates an opportunity for family gathering and shared preparation.
It serves as a seasonal marker indicating the cyclical nature of the Nepali festival calendar.
Tel Lagaune Ra Nimko Pat Khane Din is a charming Nepali tradition that blends health, spirituality and family togetherness. By applying oil, consuming neem preparations and sharing savory treats, families prepare their bodies and spirits for the joyous celebrations ahead, keeping alive a custom that reflects Nepal's rich cultural heritage.