Editorial photo #13186920 Economy, Business and Finance
Molasses Market Ahead Of Maghe Sankranti In Kathmandu, Nepal
Molasses, locally known as ''Chaku,'' along with delicacies made from it and other traditional dishes, is displayed for sale at a market ahead of Maghe Sankranti in Kathmandu, Nepal, on January 12, 2026. Maghe Sankranti marks the first day of the 10th month according to the lunar calendar. Chaku, an unrefined confection made from concentrated sugarcane juice or jaggery, ghee, and nuts, is traditionally consumed during the festival and throughout the winter months, as it is believed to promote good health and provide warmth. Its preparation involves melting and continuously stirring jaggery, cooling it in clay pots, and repeatedly whipping, slapping, and stretching the mixture until it turns dark brown before being weighed, topped with nuts, and packaged, a process that takes approximately two to three hours to complete. (Photo by Safal Prakash Shrestha/NurPhoto)
