Dashain festival

Dashain Festival

Dashain, also known as Vijaya Dashami, is the biggest and most widely celebrated festival in Nepal. It usually falls in September or October and lasts for 15 days. This festival symbolizes the victory of good over evil, marking the triumph of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura.

During Dashain, families gather together, people return to their hometowns, and there is an atmosphere of joy and celebration everywhere. Homes and temples are cleaned and decorated, kites are flown, and swings (ping) are set up in villages. On the eighth and ninth days, animals are traditionally sacrificed in honor of Goddess Durga.

The most important day is the tenth day, Vijaya Dashami, when elders put tika (a mixture of rice, yogurt, and vermillion) and jamara (barley grass) on the foreheads of younger family members, blessing them with prosperity, health, and long life. Relatives also give Dakshina (money or gifts) as part of the blessings.

Dashain is not just a religious festival but also a time of reunion, joy, and cultural celebration. It strengthens family bonds and reflects the rich traditions of Nepalese society.