Dashain Festival is the biggest and most significant Hindu festival celebrated in Nepal and among Nepali communities worldwide. Lasting for 15 days, Dashain honors the goddess Durga and celebrates the victory of good over evil. It is a season of family reunions, blessings, religious ceremonies, kite flying, and festive feasting.

History and Mythological Background of Dashain

The history of Dashain festival is rooted in Hindu mythology:

• Durga’s Victory: The goddess Durga defeated the powerful demon Mahishasura after nine days of fierce battle, symbolizing the ultimate victory of virtue.

• Rama’s Victory over Ravana: In the epic Ramayana, Lord Rama worshiped Durga to defeat the demon king Ravana, another story celebrated during Dashain.

Thus, the Dashain festival in Nepal symbolizes justice, truth, and righteousness prevailing over evil forces.

When is Dashain Celebrated?

Dashain usually falls in September or October, according to the Nepali lunar calendar during the month of Ashwin. It often coincides with Navratri celebrated in India but has its own unique traditions.

• Duration: 15 days

• Key Days: Ghatasthapana, Phulpati, Maha Ashtami, Maha Nawami, Vijaya Dashami, Kojagrat Purnima

Detailed Rituals and Events During Dashain

Day 1: Ghatasthapana – The Beginning of Dashain

• Ritual of planting Jamara (sacred barley grass) in a pot (kalash).

• Worship of the goddess Durga begins.

Days 2–6: Prayers and Jamara Care

• Daily worship rituals continue.

• Devotees fast and pray for blessings.

Day 7: Phulpati – Floral Offerings to Goddess Durga

• Sacred flowers and symbolic offerings are brought into homes.

• Traditionally marked by processions and official ceremonies.

Day 8: Maha Ashtami – The Fiercest Day

• Animal sacrifices at temples like Kali Mandir.

• Families perform rituals at home with offerings to the goddess.

Day 9: Maha Nawami – Worship of Vehicles and Tools

• Blessing of vehicles, weapons, and machinery for protection and prosperity.

• Mass animal sacrifices at Hanuman Dhoka and other temples.

Day 10: Vijaya Dashami – Main Tika Day

• Elders apply Tika (red rice paste) and place Jamara on the younger generation.

• Special blessings for prosperity, health, and success.

• Major family gatherings and visits to relatives.

Days 11–14: Continued Celebrations

• Family reunions, kite flying, card games, feasts.

• The festive mood extends for days with travel and social gatherings.

Day 15: Kojagrat Purnima – Festival Conclusion

• Worship of Goddess Lakshmi, goddess of wealth.

• Staying awake through the night for blessings of prosperity.

Symbolism and Meaning of Dashain Festival

• Triumph of Good over Evil: A universal message celebrated through Dashain.

• Family Unity and Respect: The tika ceremony strengthens family bonds.

• Prosperity and Well-being: Blessing of tools, homes, and vehicles.

• Cultural Pride: Preserving traditional dances, music, and customs.

Traditional Dashain Customs and Activities

• Flying Kites (Changā): Marks the festive spirit and the end of the monsoon season.

• Bamboo Swings (Ping): Symbolize joy and communal celebration.

• Shopping and New Clothes: It is customary to wear new clothes and gift items during Dashain.

• Feasting: Special foods like mutton curry, sel roti (traditional rice doughnut), and sweets are prepared.

Modern Changes in Dashain Festival

• Eco-Friendly Dashain: Emphasis on symbolic sacrifices and environmental consciousness.

• Urban Celebrations: Bigger events, musical programs, and fairs in cities.

• Global Dashain: Nepali diasporas in the USA, UK, Australia, and Middle East celebrate Dashain with similar traditions.

Interesting Facts About Dashain Festival

• Dashain offers the longest public holiday in Nepal, lasting up to 15 days.

• Many temples only open their inner sanctums during Maha Ashtami and Maha Nawami.

• Dashain swings (ping) are constructed only for this time of year and dismantled afterward.

• Dashain is sometimes called the “Festival of Victory” or “Durga Puja of Nepal“.

Final Thoughts

The Dashain Festival is not just Nepal’s biggest holiday; it is the spiritual and cultural heartbeat of the nation. From grand temples to humble villages, Dashain brings Nepalese families together in prayer, joy, and festivity. Its timeless message of goodness triumphing over evil makes it a universally inspiring celebration.

Whether you’re visiting Nepal or celebrating Dashain abroad, participating in Dashain traditions like receiving Tika and Jamara, enjoying family feasts, and flying colorful kites will leave you with unforgettable memories.