Mata Tirtha Aausi (मातातीर्थ औंसी) is a traditional Hindu festival in Nepal dedicated to honoring and remembering mothers. The name breaks down into “Mata” meaning mother, “Tirtha” meaning sacred pilgrimage site, and “Aausi” meaning new moon day, collectively symbolizing “the sacred day to honor mothers at a pilgrimage site.” The festival is celebrated with deep spiritual devotion and cultural reverence across Nepal.

The background and significance of Mata Tirtha Aausi lie in its spiritual and cultural dimensions. Spiritually, the festival represents unconditional maternal love, sacrifice, and the everlasting bond between a mother and her child. It is a day dedicated to expressing gratitude toward living mothers and offering prayers for the souls of those who have passed. Culturally, in Nepalese society, mothers are considered divine figures, and Mata Tirtha Aausi reinforces the deep respect and honor that motherhood holds as a vital foundation of life and community.

The rituals and traditions of Mata Tirtha Aausi are both rich and meaningful. One of the key rituals involves a pilgrimage to the sacred Mata Tirtha Pond, located in Chandragiri Municipality, southwest of Kathmandu. Here, devotees perform ritual baths, offer water, milk, and flowers, and conduct religious rites in memory of their mothers. It is believed that bathing and praying at this pond on Mata Tirtha Aausi ensures peace for one’s mother’s soul and brings blessings to the devotee. At home, families honor living mothers by presenting them with sweets, new clothes, and gifts, often accompanied by special meals and small rituals. It becomes a heartfelt occasion for families to gather and express their love and respect.

According to mythological belief, the origin of Mata Tirtha Aausi is rooted in a popular folklore. It is said that a cowherd once experienced a vision of his deceased mother in the waters of Mata Tirtha Pond while offering prayers. Since then, it has been believed that prayers and offerings at Mata Tirtha on this special day create a sacred connection between the living and their departed mothers, bringing peace to their souls and blessings to those who remember them with devotion.
The current importance of Mata Tirtha Aausi goes beyond family devotion. It plays a crucial role in strengthening family values, fostering cultural preservation, and boosting religious tourism in Nepal. The festival highlights Nepal’s vibrant spiritual traditions woven into daily life and continues to attract anthropologists, spiritual seekers, and tourists worldwide who are eager to witness and participate in Nepal’s living cultural practices.