Swayambunath Cleaning Campaign

In the last few weeks, we were so lucky to meet some really nice people who are organizing a cleaning campaign at one of Kathmandu’s most famous temples, Swayambunath. The event happens every Saturday from 7 to 9 am, during which time a whole lot of people with very different backgrounds, but in a way all of them interested in the area, gather together, to do some full power cleaning in the area of the temple.

The more time I’m spending here in Nepal, the more I’m starting to realize that here everything is more than what you can see... For example the message of this campaign is way behind the idea of cleaning the temple. It’s also a lot connected with the Buddhist way of thinking: according to this, everything always come back to a full circle, everything is about clearing our mind, which instead of emptiness will result in a kind of fullness. According to this way of thinking, working full power on the cleaning is a great way to get rid of all the thought and rush of everyday life, as well, as by cleaning our environment we also get to clear ourselves at the same time... Besides this, another message of the campaign is to emphasize our responsibilities while also changing the way of thinking of the traditional caste roles in the community. While traditionally cleaning was associated as a lower caste job, especially done by the lowest caste of all, called the Dalits, by participating in this campaign, people also say that in a way, we are all equal, which doesn’t only provide freedom, but also responsibilities – such as taking care of our own environment.