Best Celebration of the Dashain Festival in Nepal
Celebration of the Dashain festival in Nepal has begun and Dashain, also known as Vijaya Dashami, is the most significant Hindu festival in Nepal, celebrated over a span of 15 days, typically in September or October. Celebration of the Dashain festival symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and honours Goddess Durga, who defeated the buffalo demon Mahishasura. The festivities begin with Ghatasthapana, where seeds are sown to grow Jamara, signifying new beginnings.
The celebration of the Dashain festival’s first nine days is dedicated to worshipping Durga in her nine forms, culminating in the tenth day, Vijaya Dashami. On this day, families gather to receive tika, a mixture of yogurt, rice, and vermilion, from their elders, who bless them with good fortune and prosperity. This ritual fosters familial bonds and respect for elders, reinforcing cultural values.
Celebration of the Dashain Festival in Nepal Highlights:
Day 01: Ghatasthapana: Invocation of Goddess Shailaputri:
Ghatasthapana marks the initiation of Dashain with the establishment of the sacred Kalash (water-filled vessel). Goddess Shailaputri, the first manifestation of Goddess Durga, is worshipped on this day. She represents new beginnings and embodies the power of nature. Devotees seek her blessings for a prosperous and fruitful festival.
Day 02: Dwitiya: Adoration of Goddess Brahmacharini:
On Dwitiya, Goddess Brahmacharini is revered. She symbolizes dedication, purity, and self-discipline. Worshipping her encourages devotees to embrace righteous paths and attain spiritual enlightenment.
Day 03: Tritiya: Devotion to Goddess Chandraghanta:
Goddess Chandraghanta, worshipped on Tritiya, showcases her bravery and grace. Her half-moon-adorned forehead inspires courage. By honouring her, individuals seek protection from negativities and inner strength to overcome challenges.
Day 04: Chaturthi: Reverence for Goddess Kushmanda:
Chaturthi is dedicated to Goddess Kushmanda, the creator of the universe. She radiates cosmic energy and blesses devotees with vitality and well-being. Her worship signifies the importance of energy and life force.
Day 05: Panchami: Praise of Goddess Skandamata:
Goddess Skandamata, worshipped on Panchami, is the mother of Lord Skanda (Kartikeya). She represents motherly love and protection. Devotees seek her blessings for nurturing relationships and safeguarding their loved ones.
Day 06: Shashthi: Reverence for Goddess Katyayani:
Goddess Katyayani, revered on Shashthi, epitomizes strength and courage. She is the warrior goddess who defeats evil forces. Worshipping her instils determination and the will to overcome adversities.
Day 07: Saptami: Adoration of Goddess Kalaratri:
Goddess Kalaratri, worshipped on Saptami, embodies the fierce and destructive form of Durga. She annihilates darkness and negativity, paving the way for light and positivity in life. Her worship symbolizes the victory of good over evil.
Day 08: Ashtami: Worship of Goddess Mahagauri:
On Ashtami, Goddess Mahagauri is venerated. She radiates purity and grace, signifying the triumph of righteousness. Her worship purifies the mind and soul, granting inner peace and spiritual growth.
Day 09: Navami: Devotion to Goddess Siddhidatri:
Goddess Siddhidatri worshipped on Navami, grants divine knowledge and spiritual enlightenment. She blesses devotees with achievements and accomplishments, both material and spiritual. Her worship symbolizes the culmination of the Navadurga manifestations.
Day 10 – Dashami (Vijaya Dashami): Celebration of Goddess Durga’s Victory:
Vijaya Dashami is the pinnacle of Dashain, honouring Goddess Durga’s victory over the demon Mahishasura. She represents the ultimate power of femininity and the vanquisher of evil forces. On this day, families come together to seek her blessings through the Tika and Jamara ceremony, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
During the celebration of the Dashain festival in Nepal, people engage in various traditions: flying kites, enjoying swings (ping), and preparing special meals. Homes are adorned with decorations, and new clothes are worn. The festival also includes animal sacrifices as offerings to Durga, although this practice is viewed critically by some.
Dashain transcends social boundaries, uniting people from diverse backgrounds. It is a time for family reunions, as many Nepalis travel home from far and wide to celebrate together. The atmosphere is filled with joy as communities come alive with laughter and festivities.
Dashain, the most significant and eagerly awaited festival in Nepal, is a celebration that unites families and communities across the nation. Lasting for 15 days, Dashain celebrates the triumph of good over evil, commemorating the goddess Durga’s victory over the demon Mahishasura. It typically falls in September or October, marking the beginning of the harvest season and symbolizing prosperity and renewal.