India, June 29 -- By Binod Prasad Adhikari

Sindhuli [Nepal], June 29 (ANI): Marking the start of the rice planting season, a tug-of-war between groups, ploughing the field using oxen and he-buffaloes, farmers soaking in the mud and splashing water on each other, locals of Nepal's Sindhuli observed National Paddy Day in full swing, even as the El Nino is expected to bring a drier monsoon this season.

The Marin Rural Municipality this year has organised the National Paddy Day celebration, attended by hundreds of people, soaking themselves in mud and water.

"Marking the annual celebration of Ashar 15 as a weekly event, the Marin Rural Municipality organised the Ropain Mela. Continuing the traditional method of ploughing the field and the ...