Dashain
Dashain is a major festival in Nepal, celebrated by both Hindus and Buddhists. It is a time of joy, where families and friends come together to celebrate the victory of good over evil. The festival typically falls in the month of October or November, and lasts for 15 days.
The
first day of Dashain is called Ghatasthapana, where a small pit is dug and
filled with holy water. Barley seeds are then planted in the pit and a Kalash,
a holy pitcher, is placed on top. This marks the beginning of the festival and
is considered as the first step towards a bountiful harvest.
The
next few days are spent visiting family and friends, exchanging gifts, and
participating in various cultural activities. One of the most important rituals
of Dashain is the Tika ceremony, where elders bless the younger generation by
applying a red tika on their forehead and giving them dakshina, a monetary
gift.
Another
major highlight of Dashain is the sacrifice of animals, such as goats,
chickens, and ducks, to appease the goddess Durga, who is believed to have
defeated the demon Mahisasura. The meat from the sacrificed animals is then
distributed among family and friends.
The
last day of Dashain is called Vijaya Dashami, which marks the victory of the
goddess Durga over Mahisasura. It is also a day to bid farewell to the goddess,
who is believed to return to her heavenly abode until next year.
Dashain
is not just a religious festival, it is also a time for families to come
together, bond and make new memories. It is also a time to reflect on the past
year and make new resolutions for the year ahead. The festival is celebrated
with great enthusiasm and joy throughout the country, making it one of the most
important festivals in Nepal.
In
conclusion, Dashain is a festival of great significance and joy for Nepalese
people. It is a time to celebrate the victory of good over evil, to come
together with family and friends, and to make new memories. It is a festival
that brings people together and instills a sense of unity and brotherhood among
all.