Nepali Parade Brings Culture and Color to San Francisco

A Nepali parade was held in San Francisco, California, organized by the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) California chapter. The parade began at San Francisco City Hall and concluded at Embarcadero Plaza, covering approximately 1.6 miles.

Traffic along Market Street in the city’s central area was halted as participants showcased traditional attire and cultural displays, turning the street into a vibrant reflection of Nepal.

Participants waved Nepali flags and carried banners representing individuals and various organizations, highlighting Nepal’s multicultural and multilingual identity. Cultural performances featured traditional elements such as Panchakanya, Panche Baja, conch shell sounds, Kumari, Dhime, and Lakhe dances. Multiple organizations took part in the parade with banners.

A cultural program followed the parade, where artists performed traditional presentations. Participants traveled from nearby cities, including Los Angeles, as well as from states such as New York, Texas and New Jersey.

The event was chaired by NRNA California Chapter President K.P. Dhakal. Chief guest Satendra Shah, president of NRNA USA, attended the program along with Consul General of Nepal in San Francisco Laxman Khanal, Richmond Mayor Eduardo Martinez, Gyan Kaji Lama, general secretary of the Federation of Indigenous Nationalities of Nepal America (California), and Pritesh Karki, president of the Nepali Association of Northern California, among others.

Photos: Handout by Ishwori Neupane