Ekadashi (Dashain) in Nepal ― Date, History, and Details
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History of Ekadashi (Dashain) in Nepal and How to Celebrate/ Observe It
Ekadashi, or Dashain as it is known in Nepal, is one of the most important festivals celebrated by Hindus throughout the country. It is a ten-day festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil and marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year. The first day of Ekadashi is known as Ghatasthapana, which literally translates to “pot establishment”, and marks the start of the festival. On this day, people set up small clay pots filled with holy water and barley seeds, which symbolize the fertility of the land.
The second and third days of Ekadashi are known as Fulpati and Saptami, respectively. On these days, people worship Goddess Durga, the goddess of strength and power, and exchange gifts with their family and friends. On the fourth day, called Ashtami, people take part in Kojagrat Puja, which is a ritualistic worship of Lord Shiva. On the fifth day, called Navami, people celebrate Vijayadashami, which marks the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana. On this day, people also perform animal sacrifices in honor of the gods.
On the last day of Ekadashi, called Ekadashi, people gather together to sing religious hymns and exchange gifts. People wear new clothes and visit temples and religious shrines to offer prayers to the gods. They also observe a fast on this day and abstain from eating grains and other food items. At the end of the day, they break their fasts with a feast of delicious traditional Nepali dishes.