Creative Heights Entertainment, an Emmy-winning production company, is excited to announce that its acclaimed documentary series ‘Festivals’ is now available for streaming on SBS On Demand in Australia. After captivating audiences on Discovery Asia, Thai PBS, and RAI TV in Italy, this immersive exploration of Nepal’s cultural tapestry has finally arrived for Australian viewers.
The five-episode series, ‘Festivals’, provides an in-depth look into Nepal’s rich cultural heritage, showcasing its vibrant and diverse festivals that embody the spirit and traditions of the region. Each episode delves into the unique customs, rituals, and celebrations that make Nepalese festivals a captivating spectacle, reflecting the nation’s deep-rooted history and colorful cultural identity.
Now, Australian audiences can embark on a journey through the heart of Nepal, gaining insight into its rich traditions and the joyous occasions that unite its people, all from the comfort of their homes. This addition to SBS On Demand marks a significant milestone, broadening the availability of world-class documentary content that celebrates global cultural diversity.
Exploring the Heart of Nepal Through Festivals
‘Festivals’ Season 1 invites viewers on an enthralling journey into the heart of Nepal, showcasing the country’s most beloved celebrations and unveiling the rich tapestry of its religious legends, age-old traditions, and vibrant cultural diversity. Each episode delves deep into the essence of Nepalese festivities:
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Episode 1 – Festival of Tihar (Diwali)
Tihar, also known as Diwali, is a five-day festival that highlights the unique relationship between humans and animals. Each day is dedicated to worshipping a different creature, from crows and dogs to cows and oxen, concluding with a celebration of brothers. These rituals emphasize themes of protection, loyalty, and prosperity, reflecting the harmonious connection between all living beings.
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Episode 2 – Festival of Dashain
Dashain stands as Nepal’s longest and most widely celebrated festival, honoring the victory of the Mother Goddess Durga over the forces of evil. Taking place over 15 days in September or early October, this festival is a time for family reunions, sharing blessings, and performing ancient rituals. It is a period of joy, marked by feasting, ceremonial rites, and the passing down of cultural traditions that bind generations together.
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Episode 3 – Saraswati Puja
On this special day, children embark on their educational journey, receiving their first lessons in writing and reading. It is believed that Saraswati, the revered Goddess of Knowledge, bestows her blessings upon young learners, aiding them in their academic pursuits. The festival symbolizes a time of new beginnings, where starting to learn something new is seen as particularly auspicious, filled with optimism and the promise of future success.
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Episode 4 – Maha Shiva Ratri
Maha Shiva Ratri draws hundreds of thousands of devotees from Nepal and around the world, who gather to honor Lord Shiva. During this sacred celebration, holy men adopt the guise of living deities, embodying the spiritual essence of Shiva. Married women engage in dedicated rituals, seeking Lord Shiva’s favor for the well-being, longevity, and success of their husbands. Meanwhile, unmarried girls pray fervently, hoping to find a life partner as devoted and powerful as Shiva himself.
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Episode 5 – Gai Jatra
Gai Jatra, a festival with deep roots in Nepalese tradition, is held to commemorate family members who have passed away within the last year. Rather than being a time of mourning, this festival transforms sorrow into celebration. Participants don vibrant costumes, paint their faces, wear masks, and parade through the streets with lively music. The festival serves as a communal event where grief is replaced by joy, and the lives of the departed are celebrated with laughter, dance, and colorful displays, reflecting the enduring spirit of resilience and togetherness.
International Acclaim for ‘Festivals’
The ‘Festivals’ series has achieved international recognition, bringing widespread acclaim to its creator, Jaswant Dev Shrestha. His exceptional work on this documentary earned him the prestigious Emmy Award, marking a historic moment as the first Nepali to be honored with this accolade. The series has been lauded for its breathtaking cinematography, rich storytelling, and dedication to preserving the unique cultural heritage of Nepal. Each episode offers a visually stunning and deeply insightful exploration of the country’s diverse festivals, capturing the essence of its traditions and the spirit of its people.
Creative Heights Entertainment: A Leader in Independent Filmmaking
Founded in 2010 in Los Angeles, California, Creative Heights Entertainment (CHE) has emerged as a powerhouse in the world of independent filmmaking. The company is renowned for its commitment to telling compelling and culturally significant stories that resonate with audiences around the globe. As an Emmy-winning production company, CHE has carved out a distinctive space in Hollywood’s competitive environment by focusing on narratives that highlight cultural richness and diversity. Their dedication to producing content that transcends cultural barriers and connects with viewers on a profound level has solidified their reputation as a leader in independent media production.
SBS On Demand: Australia’s Premier Free Streaming Service
SBS On Demand stands as Australia’s premier free video streaming service, offering a vast and diverse library of content that includes movies, documentaries, and TV series from across the globe. Known for its commitment to showcasing stories that reflect a variety of cultures and perspectives, SBS On Demand provides Australian audiences with access to high-quality content that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. By delivering a wide array of programming that spans genres and origins, SBS On Demand enriches the viewing experience, allowing Australians to explore and appreciate the wealth of stories that the world has to offer.
