Dashain Festival: Nepal's Amazing Festival the World Should Know

Dashain Festival

I.Introduction 

If you are looking for a unique and colorful festival experience, then Dashain festival in Nepal is a must-see. It is the most important festival in Nepal, celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor by people of all ages, religions, and backgrounds. Dashain is a fifteen-day long festival, celebrated during the month of September or October, which marks the victory of good over evil and the triumph of truth and righteousness over evil and falsehood. In this article, we will explore the history, significance, rituals, and celebrations of Dashain festival in Nepal, as well as the traditional dishes and drinks, and how Nepalese communities living abroad celebrate this festival.

II. History and Significance of Dashain Festival 

Dashain festival has its roots in Hindu mythology and is believed to have been celebrated since ancient times. According to Hindu mythology, Dashain celebrates the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana. It is believed that Lord Rama defeated Ravana and rescued his wife Sita from his captivity on the tenth day of the festival, which is known as Vijaya Dashami. Dashain is also known as the festival of harvest, and it is believed to be a time to thank the gods for the good harvest and seek their blessings for the next season.

Dashain has great significance in Nepali culture. It is a time when families and communities come together to celebrate, share their joy, and strengthen their bonds. People believe that Dashain brings good luck, prosperity, and happiness to their lives. It is also a time to reflect on the values of truth, honesty, and compassion, and to renew one's commitment to these values.

III. Rituals and Celebrations 

There was preparations for Dashain start weeks in advance. Houses are cleaned and decorated with colorful lights and flowers. People buy new clothes and jewelry and prepare traditional dishes for the festival. The festival lasts for nine days, and each day is associated with a different goddess. People offer prayers and sacrifices to the goddesses for blessings and protection.

On the tenth day of Dashain, people receive Tika and Jamara from their elders. Tika is a mixture of rice, curd, and vermilion, which is placed on the forehead as a blessing. Jamara is barley sprouts, which are grown in a pot and offered as a symbol of good luck and prosperity. The Tika and Jamara ceremony is a symbolic representation of the bond between elders and younger members of the family, and it is believed to bring blessings and good fortune to the family.

During the festival, people play traditional music, sing and dance, and participate in various cultural events. They also fly kites, which is a popular activity during Dashain. The festival culminates in a grand celebration on the tenth day, which is marked by feasting, drinking, and exchanging gifts.

IV. Food and Drinks 

Selroti

Dashain is a time for feasting and indulging in traditional Nepali dishes. Some of the popular dishes during Dashain include Sel Roti, a traditional Nepali bread made with rice flour, and Kwati, a soup made from nine different types of beans. Meat lovers can enjoy dishes such as Sukuti, dried meat, and Masu, meat curry. For those with a sweet tooth, Dashain offers a variety of desserts such as Malpuwa, a sweet pancake made from rice flour and sugar, and Rasbari, a milk-based dessert.

Chyaang

In addition to the traditional dishes, Dashain also offers a variety of special drinks such as Chyang, a rice-based beer, and Raksi, a traditional Nepali liquor made from millet or rice. These drinks are enjoyed with family and friends during the festive celebrations.

V. Dashain around the world

Nepalese celebrating Dashain abroad 

Dashain is not just limited to Nepal; it is celebrated with equal enthusiasm by Nepalese communities living abroad. These communities have kept the tradition and culture alive and have incorporated it into their daily lives. Nepalese communities in countries such as India, the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom celebrate Dashain with great fervor, and it has become a way to connect with their roots and culture.

VI. Conclusion

Dashain festival is an integral part of Nepali culture, and it is a time for family, food, and celebrations. The festival offers a glimpse into the rich and vibrant culture of Nepal, and it is an experience that should not be missed. By learning about the history, rituals, and traditions of Dashain, one can gain a better understanding and appreciation of Nepali culture. Whether in Nepal or abroad, Dashain is a time to come together and celebrate the blessings of life.

FAQs

1.What is Dashain festival, and why is it important in Nepal?

Dashain is a fifteen-day long festival celebrated in Nepal during the month of September or October. It is an important festival in Nepali culture that marks the victory of good over evil and the triumph of truth and righteousness over evil and falsehood. It is also a time to thank the gods for the good harvest and seek their blessings for the next season.

2.What are some of the traditional dishes and drinks during Dashain festival?

Some of the popular traditional dishes during Dashain include Sel Roti, Kwati, Sukuti, Masu, Malpuwa, and Rasbari. Special drinks such as Chyang and Raksi are also enjoyed during the festival.

3.How is Dashain celebrated by Nepalese communities living abroad?

Nepalese communities living abroad celebrate Dashain with equal enthusiasm and fervor. It is a way to connect with their roots and culture, and they incorporate the festival into their daily lives.

4.What is the Tika and Jamara ceremony, and why is it important in Dashain?

The Tika and Jamara ceremony is an important part of Dashain, and it symbolizes the renewal of familial ties and the blessings of the elders for the younger generation. Tika is a mixture of rice, curd, and vermilion, which is placed on the forehead

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