The Gadhimai Mahotsav, held every five years at the Gadhimai Temple in Nepal’s Madhesh Province, is the world’s largest animal sacrifice festival. Gadhimai Mahotsav, started on December 2 and concluded on December 15, 2024. Despite decades of criticism from animal rights activists and court bans in India and Nepal, the 2023-24 festival saw a record footfall of 2.5 crore people. The festival’s central rituals involve sacrificing animals like buffaloes, goats, and birds, preceded by a shamanic offering of five forest animals. Devotees believe the sacrifices fulfill wishes, often related to patriarchal traditions, such as blessings for male offspring.
Efforts to curb the practice have included court rulings restricting animal transport and banning public sacrifices, but enforcement is weak, and sacrifices now occur behind closed doors. Meat from sacrificed animals is auctioned and often exported, adding economic value. The festival generates significant revenue through tourism and local commerce, creating a financial incentive for its continuation. Political reluctance to intervene stems from the fear of offending religious sentiments, leaving NGOs and civil society groups struggling to balance opposition with respect for cultural traditions.
