Dashain, the biggest and longest festival in Nepal, holds a special place in the hearts of Nepali people. Celebrated for 15 days, it is a time when families unite, traditions are cherished, and the entire country is filled with a spirit of joy and festivity. From flying kites to receiving tika and blessings from elders, Dashain is a festival that beautifully showcases Nepal’s rich cultural heritage.
Nepal is a country well-known for having hundreds of festivals celebrated around the nation, each year with more than hundreds of ethnic groups and castes residing in harmony. Among all the festivals celebrated throughout the year, Vijaya Dashami or Dashain is one of the significant and biggest festivals celebrated by every community in Nepal. Along with being the biggest festival, it is also the longest one. The celebration of Dashain began thousands of years back when goddess Durga won the war over the evil named, 'Mahisasur' after nine long days. On the tenth day, the victory over evil by good was praised and celebrated, making the celebration of Dashain ten days long.
The Significance of Dashain
Dashain, also known as Vijaya Dashami, symbolizes the victory of good over evil. It commemorates the triumph of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura, as well as Lord Ram's victory over the demon king Ravana. This festival is a reminder that righteousness always prevails, and it serves as a time for people to seek blessings, renew family bonds, and celebrate with great fervor.
The 15 Days of Dashain: A Day-by-Day Overview
Dashain is celebrated for 15 days, each marked by unique rituals and customs. Let’s take a closer look at the key days and their significance:
Day 1. Ghatasthapana
The first day of Dashain, Ghatasthapana, marks the official beginning of the festival. On this day, a sacred pot, or ghada, is placed in a room, and barley seeds are sown in a ritual called Jamara. The pot is worshipped for the following nine days as a representation of Goddess Durga.
Day 7. Phulpati
Phulpati, meaning ‘sacred flowers and plants,’ is celebrated on the seventh day of Dashain. Traditionally, a procession of sacred flowers, banana stalks, and jamara is carried from Gorkha to Kathmandu. This ritual is performed in the courtyard of the Hanuman Dhoka Palace, and the entire nation watches the procession as a symbol of royal tradition.
Day 8. Maha Ashtami
Maha Ashtami, the eighth day, is dedicated to worshipping Goddess Kali, a fierce manifestation of Durga. People sacrifice animals such as goats, ducks, and buffaloes as offerings to appease the goddess. It is considered one of the most powerful days for blessings and protection.
Day 9. Maha Navami
On the ninth day, known as Maha Navami, people worship tools, vehicles, and machinery in a ceremony called Ayudha Puja. This tradition symbolizes the importance of one’s profession and a prayer for protection against accidents and harm. At the Taleju Temple in Kathmandu, the goddess is worshipped with great devotion.
Day 10. Vijaya Dashami
The tenth day, Vijaya Dashami, is the main highlight of the festival. Elders apply tika (a mixture of red vermillion, yogurt, and rice) and jamara (barley grass) on the foreheads of younger family members, giving blessings for health, prosperity, and success. It is a time of family reunions, and people travel long distances to receive tika from their elders.
Day 15. Kojagrat Purnima
The last day of Dashain, Kojagrat Purnima, marks the end of the festival. People stay up all night, worshipping the Goddess of Wealth, Laxmi, believing she blesses those who remain awake with prosperity. Houses are lit up with oil lamps and candles, making it a beautiful and serene night.
Dashain Festival A biggest festival of Nepal
Traditional Foods and Activities During Dashain
Dashain is not just about rituals; it’s also a time for feasting and enjoying traditional Nepali delicacies. Some of the most popular dishes prepared during this festival include:
Mutton and Buff Curry: Prepared using freshly sacrificed goats, this is a festive favorite.
Sel Roti: A homemade, sweet rice flour bread that is deep-fried and enjoyed with spicy curries.
Aloo Tama: A unique soup made of potatoes and bamboo shoots, enjoyed with rice.
Apart from food, several fun activities are associated with Dashain:
Kite Flying: The skies are filled with colorful kites, a symbol of freedom and celebration.
Bamboo Swings: Known as ping, traditional bamboo swings are set up in villages and towns, bringing joy to children and adults alike.
Card Games: Families gather to play cards, adding an element of fun and excitement to the celebrations.
Dashain: A Time for Reunions and Blessings
One of the most cherished aspects of Dashain is the opportunity for family reunions. With many people working or living abroad, Dashain is the time when everyone returns to their roots. The festival strengthens familial bonds as family members gather to exchange tika and jamara, seeking blessings and creating lifelong memories.
Modern Celebrations: A Blend of Tradition and Change
While traditional rituals still hold strong, modern Dashain celebrations have also adapted to changing times. Nowadays, many people opt for family trips, picnics, and adventurous getaways to celebrate the holiday. Nepali communities around the world also celebrate Dashain, keeping the essence of the festival alive even far from home.
Final Thoughts: Embracing the Spirit of Dashain
Dashain is more than just a religious festival; it is a celebration of life, culture, and unity. Whether it’s flying kites, enjoying delicious food, or receiving tika and blessings, every moment of Dashain is filled with joy and positivity. At Himalayan Recreation, we cherish the spirit of Dashain and wish everyone a happy and prosperous festival! Contact us to know more about the Nepal festivals, as this is the best time to travel in Nepal too.
Wishing you all a wonderful Dashain! May your homes be filled with joy, your hearts with warmth, and your lives with countless blessings.
Jyoti is our competent team member, a travel enthusiast, and a passionate explorer of the majestic Himalayas of Nepal. With a Bachelor's degree in Travel and Tourism Management from NATHM, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to Himalayan Recreation.
She has primarily been working as an exceptional content writer and planner for Himalayan Recreation. Her passion for writing shines through in the travel content she creates. She takes great joy in sharing the beauty and wonders of Nepal's mountains and nature through her writings.
In addition to content writing, she also holds a professional trekking guide license and has guided multiple visitors to various parts of Nepal. Although she was born and raised in Kathmandu, she has developed a deep bond with the mountains. Those high peaks serve as her constant source of inspiration and motivation.
With her extensive travels across different paths in Nepal, she has grown a connection with the mountains and has a keen understanding of their significance to both locals and travelers alike.
When she's not guiding or writing, you'll probably find her on the trails, exploring the breathtaking landscapes and immersing herself in the serenity of nature. As a valued member of our team, along with her expertise, she further brings a genuine passion for travel and the outdoors. Contact me by WhatsApp or Email, I am available online 24/7.
