KATMANDU, Nepal – A Hindu festival in which hundreds of thousands of animals are expected to be sacrificed will go ahead as scheduled in southern Nepal despite protests, organizers said Friday. The Gadhimai Mela, celebrated every five years, is attended by many Hindus from India as well as Nepal. More than 200,000 buffaloes, pigs, goats, chickens, and pigeons are expected to be slaughtered this year on [just before Thanksgiving Day on] November 24 and 25.
Organizers said they will not bow to "interference" from pro-animal and religious groups that have held protests in Katmandu and in the festival area in Bara District, about 100 miles (160 km) south of the capital.
Supporters of "Buddha Boy," Ram Bahadur Bomjon (PaldenDorje.org), the Nepalese teenager revered by many as the next Buddha, carry his photograph as they protest an upcoming Hindu festival in Katmandu, Nepal, on Nov. 18, 2009. (AP/Binod Joshi).
Participants believe that animal sacrifices for the Hindu goddess Gadhimai will end evil and bring prosperity. Many join the festival from the state of Bihar in India, where animal sacrifices have been banned in some areas. Critics say the killings are barbaric and conducted in a cruel manner. Government administrator Taranath Gauram said hundreds of extra policemen have been sent to the area to maintain security and officials do not expect trouble during the festival.
