Dashain Holiday in Nepal 13^th to 12^th October 2024 (2081)

Dashain is a religious Nepali festival which is celebrated for fifteen days. It is the longest and the most significant festival in Nepali Calendar. Dashain is also celebrated in Bhutan and some North-Eastern states of India.

Dashain, also known as Vijaya Dashami, is the longest and the most significant festival celebrated in Nepal. It typically lasts for 15 days and falls between September and October, aligning with the bright lunar fortnight ending on the day of the full moon. This festival is marked by family reunions, animal sacrifices, and religious ceremonies, celebrating the victory of good over evil.

Dashain 2081 begins in the month of Asoj. Fulapati is in Asoj 24 2081 and Kojagat Purnima on Asoj 30. However, the major celebrations of the day fall on October 12 (Vijayadashami)

Ghatasthapana (Day 1)

o          The festival begins with Ghatasthapana, which involves the sowing of jamara (barley seeds) in a pot filled with sand. This ritual symbolizes the start of Dashain and is performed in households and temples.

Fulpati (Day 7)

o          Fulpati is marked by the ceremonial collection of sacred flowers, leaves, and other offerings, which are then taken to Hanuman Dhoka Royal Palace in Kathmandu. Traditionally, this day includes a procession and various cultural performances.

Maha Ashtami (Day 8)

o          On Maha Ashtami, people worship the goddess Kali, the fierce aspect of Goddess Durga. Animal sacrifices are common on this day to honor the goddess, and the night is dedicated to prayers and offerings.

Maha Navami (Day 9)

o          Maha Navami is the penultimate day of Dashain, where rituals to appease the goddess Durga continue. The Taleju Temple in Kathmandu, which is usually closed to the public, opens on this day. Vehicles and tools are also worshiped for protection and prosperity.

Vijaya Dashami (Day 10)

o          The most important day of Dashain is Vijaya Dashami, celebrating the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura. Elders give tika (a mixture of rice, yogurt, and vermilion) and jamara to younger family members, along with blessings for prosperity and good health. This day also involves extensive family gatherings and feasting.

Kojagrat Purnima (Day 15)

o          The festival concludes on Kojagrat Purnima, a full moon day. It is believed that the goddess of wealth, Laxmi, descends to earth on this day. People stay awake all night, worshipping and hoping for prosperity.

Traditions and Customs

• Tika and Jamara: Tika is applied on the forehead, and jamara (barley grass) is placed behind the ears or in the hair. These are symbolic blessings from elders to the younger generation.
• Animal Sacrifices: Animal sacrifices, particularly of goats, buffaloes, and chickens, are common during the festival to honor the deities.
• Kites and Swings: Flying kites and setting up traditional bamboo swings (ping) are popular activities among children and adults during Dashain.
• Shopping and Feasting: People buy new clothes and prepare special dishes like goat meat, sel roti (a traditional homemade, sweet, ring-shaped rice bread), and various sweets.

Cultural Significance

Dashain symbolizes the victory of good over evil and is a time for family reunions, renewal of community bonds, and the sharing of joy and blessings. It is celebrated by people of various ethnicities and religions across Nepal, making it a unifying event in the diverse cultural landscape of the country.

Travel Tips During Dashain

• Plan Ahead: Since Dashain is a major festival, many businesses and services may be closed or operate on limited hours. Plan your travels and activities accordingly.
• Join Local Celebrations: If possible, participate in local celebrations and rituals to fully experience the cultural richness of Dashain.
• Respect Traditions: Be respectful of local customs and practices, especially regarding animal sacrifices and religious rituals.

Dashain is a vibrant and joyous festival that provides a deep insight into Nepalese culture and traditions. Celebrating Das