Dashami (Dashain) in Nepal ― Date, History, and Details
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History of Dashami (Dashain) in Nepal and How to Celebrate/ Observe It
Dashami, more commonly known as Dashain, is a major Hindu festival celebrated in Nepal. It is one of the most important festivals of the year and is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion throughout the country. Dashami marks the victory of good over evil, represented by goddess Durga’s triumph over the demon Mahishasur. The festival is celebrated for 15 days, beginning on the day of Ghatasthapana and ending on the day of Kojagrat Purnima.
During the celebration of Dashami, people observe many rituals and traditions. On the first day, Ghatasthapana, a pot is filled with holy water and grains, which symbolizes the birth of goddess Durga. This is followed by Vijaya Dashami or Badi Dashami, when families visit temples and offer prayers to goddess Durga. On all the following days, people perform Lakshmi puja, exchange gifts and visit family members and friends. On the tenth day, called Bijaya Dashami, animals are sacrificed in honor of the goddess.
On the final day, Kojagrat Purnima, families gather together and enjoy a grand feast. People also exchange tika, a red powder made from vermillion mixed with rice, and jamara which is a green grass symbolizing fertility and prosperity. During this day, elders give blessings to younger members of the family, and everyone wears new clothes. Dashami is a joyous occasion that brings people together and unites them in the spirit of celebration and devotion.