Bhalwari

Bhalwari is a small town in the Rupendehi district in Nepal settled between two larger towns – Butwal and Bhairahawa. It is in 12 km south from Butwal and 10 km north from Bhairahawa.EtymologyThe name Bhalwari is derived from the Nepalese bhal, which means "force of the water". The settlement was named as such because it experienced frequent flooding in past.PopulationMost of the population consists of Pahadi people who have migrated from nearby villages. The settlement also has a significant number of Madhesi people as well.Culture and religionThe majority of the population of Bhalwari trace their ancestry to nearby hilly regions of Palpa, Arghakhanchi, and Syangja. Because of this Butwal has a significant Pahadi (पहाड़ी) influence in its culture. The population is predominantly Hindu and Buddhist. Majority of the people are Gurung,Tharu,Thakuri,Brahman,Cheetri,Magar etc.There are some Muslims as well who are of Madhesi origin.The major festivals celebrated are: Holi, Teej, Maha Shivratri, Losar, Dashain, Tihar and Bhai Tika. Interestingly, since the majority of the population are from nearby villages, most of them go to their native villages during the long month festivities starting from Dashain to Tihar and the town becomes nearly deserted.