Gurung Community Celebrates ‘Mey Thalen Priba’ Festival with Archery and Traditional Sports

The Gurung community is celebrating the ‘Mey Thalen Priba’ festival today, an annual event observed on Phagu Poornima to commemorate the community’s mastery of archery. The festival marks the day when the Gurungs first acquired the knowledge of using the bow and arrow—an ancient weapon used for hunting and self-defense.

The celebration features not only archery but also traditional activities such as spear throwing, javelin throwing, and wrestling, highlighting the community’s historical martial skills. According to legend, this festival honors the Gurungs’ successful test of the bow and arrow received from their Mahaguru, a revered spiritual figure.

Bikram Gurung, president of Tamu Pye Lhu Sangh, an organization dedicated to preserving Gurung culture and traditions, emphasized the importance of this festival in keeping their heritage alive.

As part of the festivities, a district-level archery competition and a discussion program are being held today at Nauranga, Bharatpur-11, Chitwan, bringing together participants and spectators to celebrate the rich history and traditions of the Gurung community.