Dashain is one of the most significant and widely celebrated festivals in Nepal. It is a festival that brings families together, fosters joy, and signifies the victory of good over evil. Observed with great enthusiasm, Dashain is a time when people indulge in feasts, receive blessings, and participate in various cultural and religious activities. As the longest and most anticipated festival in Nepal, it holds a special place in the hearts of Nepalese people around the world.
History of Dashain
The history of Dashain is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. The festival commemorates the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon king Mahishasura. According to the legend, Mahishasura, who had become invincible, was ultimately defeated by Goddess Durga after a fierce battle that lasted for nine days. The tenth day, known as Vijaya Dashami, symbolizes the triumph of righteousness. Therefore, Dashain is a celebration of the power of truth, justice, and devotion.
Also Read: Ayudha Puja
When is Dashain Celebrated?
Dashain is observed according to the lunar calendar, usually falling between September and October. This year, Dashain will be celebrated on October 12th. The festival lasts for fifteen days, beginning with Ghatasthapana and concluding with Kojagrat Purnima. The most important days of Dashain are the seventh day (Fulpati), the eighth day (Maha Ashtami), the ninth day (Maha Navami), and the tenth day (Vijaya Dashami).
How is Dashain Celebrated?
Dashain is celebrated with various rituals and traditions. Families clean their homes and decorate them with flowers and traditional ornaments. Elders put tika (a mixture of yogurt, rice, and vermillion) on the foreheads of younger family members and bless them with prosperity and good fortune. People also fly kites, play traditional games, and enjoy special delicacies, such as goat meat, sel roti, and sweets. Moreover, swings made of bamboo, known as ‘ping,’ are set up in villages and towns, adding to the festive spirit.
Why is Dashain Celebrated?
Dashain is celebrated to honor the victory of good over evil, as depicted in the story of Goddess Durga and Mahishasura. It is a time for family reunions, gratitude, and joy. People believe that celebrating Dashain brings happiness, prosperity, and a fresh start. The festival also serves as a time to seek blessings from elders, pay respect to ancestors, and reinforce social and cultural bonds.
Celebrate Dashain on October 12th
As Dashain approaches on October 12th, it is the perfect occasion to embrace the festive spirit. Whether you are in Nepal or living abroad, celebrating Dashain allows you to stay connected to your roots and traditions. Take this opportunity to spend quality time with your loved ones, share happiness, and express gratitude for the blessings in life.
Dashain Quotes
- “May the colors and joy of Dashain brighten your life.”
- “Dashain is not just a festival; it is a feeling of unity and love.”
- “Let the blessings of Goddess Durga shower upon you this Dashain.”
- “Dashain teaches us that good always triumphs over evil.”
- “Rejoice in the happiness of Dashain and cherish family moments.”
- “May this Dashain bring peace and prosperity to your home.”
- “Fly high like kites and enjoy the freedom of Dashain.”
- “May the festival of Dashain fill your life with endless joy.”
- “Dashain is about blessings, togetherness, and gratitude.”
- “As Dashain arrives, let’s celebrate with love and laughter.”
- “Enjoy the feasts, the tika, and the swings of Dashain.”
- “Celebrate the grand festival of Dashain with enthusiasm.”
- “Dashain is a time to bond with family and create memories.”
- “May your Dashain be as bright as the tika on your forehead.”
- “Dashain reminds us to always choose good over evil.”
- “Let the divine energy of Dashain bring you happiness.”
- “With every tika, receive blessings for a prosperous future.”
- “Dashain is the perfect time for renewal and positivity.”
- “As we celebrate Dashain, let’s spread kindness and love.”
- “Dashain is a festival of tradition, faith, and joy.”
Dashain Wishes
- “Wishing you a prosperous and joyful Dashain!”
- “May Goddess Durga bless you with success and happiness.”
- “Happy Dashain! May your days be filled with love and laughter.”
- “May this Dashain bring peace and harmony to your life.”
- “Wishing you a wonderful time with family this Dashain.”
- “Have a blessed and delightful Dashain celebration!”
- “May your life be filled with joy and prosperity this Dashain.”
- “Sending warm wishes for a prosperous Dashain!”
- “May this Dashain bring new opportunities and happiness.”
- “Enjoy the festive moments of Dashain with your loved ones.”
- “Wishing you health, wealth, and happiness this Dashain.”
- “May your Dashain be filled with good fortune and success.”
- “Let’s celebrate Dashain with love and unity.”
- “May your home be filled with blessings this Dashain.”
- “Happy Dashain! May the festival bring you joy and luck.”
- “Enjoy the swings, kites, and feasts this Dashain!”
- “Wishing you a memorable and blissful Dashain.”
- “May you receive endless blessings this Dashain.”
- “Have a fantastic Dashain with your family and friends!”
- “May your Dashain be as bright as the festive lights.”
Dashain Greetings
- “Happy Dashain! Wishing you peace and happiness.”
- “May your Dashain be full of love and joy!”
- “Sending warm Dashain greetings to you and your family.”
- “Have a fantastic Dashain celebration!”
- “May this Dashain bring prosperity into your life.”
- “Enjoy the festival with great enthusiasm!”
- “Dashain is here—let’s celebrate together!”
- “Wishing you a blessed Dashain filled with joy.”
- “May Dashain fill your heart with happiness.”
- “Sending you Dashain blessings and good wishes.”
Dashain Messages
- “Celebrate Dashain with a heart full of joy and gratitude.”
- “May Dashain bring happiness and good luck into your life.”
- “Enjoy the beauty of Dashain with your family.”
- “Dashain is the time for family, love, and joy.”
- “May Goddess Durga shower her blessings on you.”
- “Fly kites high and let your worries fly away.”
- “Dashain is the festival of togetherness and positivity.”
- “May your home be filled with warmth this Dashain.”
- “Wishing you a Dashain full of smiles and laughter.”
- “Celebrate Dashain with love and devotion.”
Let’s make this Dashain on October 12th a celebration to remember!
Celebrate Dashain – FAQs & Answers
1. What is Dashain?
Dashain is the biggest and most significant Hindu festival in Nepal, celebrated by Nepalese communities worldwide. It honors the victory of goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
2. When is Dashain celebrated?
Dashain follows the lunar calendar and usually falls in September or October. It lasts for 15 days, with the most important days being Ghatasthapana (Day 1), Phulpati (Day 7), Maha Ashtami (Day 8), Maha Navami (Day 9), Vijaya Dashami (Day 10), and Kojagrat Purnima (Day 15).
3. How is Dashain celebrated?
Dashain is marked by various rituals, including:
- Ghatasthapana – The planting of “Jamara” (barley seeds) to be used for blessings.
- Tika and Jamara – Elders place red tika (a mixture of yogurt, rice, and vermillion) on younger family members’ foreheads as a blessing.
- Animal Sacrifices – Offered to goddess Durga for prosperity and protection.
- Swing (Ping) Playing – Traditional bamboo swings are set up in villages and towns.
- Family Reunions & Feasts – Families gather, eat special dishes like goat meat, sel roti, and sweets.
4. Why is Dashain important?
Dashain is a festival of family, blessings, and prosperity. It brings people together, strengthens family bonds, and celebrates victory over evil. The festival also has agricultural significance as it coincides with the harvest season.
5. What are the key foods eaten during Dashain?
Popular Dashain dishes include:
- Goat meat (Khasi ko Masu)
- Sel Roti (Sweet Rice Bread)
- Bara (Lentil Pancakes)
- Beaten Rice (Chiura)
- Milk-based sweets and yogurt (Dahi & Mithai)
6. What is the significance of Tika and Jamara?
On Vijaya Dashami (Day 10), elders bless younger family members with Tika (a red mark) and Jamara (barley sprouts). This ritual symbolizes prosperity, well-being, and familial love.
7. Is Dashain only celebrated in Nepal?
While Dashain is mainly observed in Nepal, it is also celebrated by Nepalese communities in India, Bhutan, Myanmar, Malaysia, and other parts of the world where Nepalese people reside.
8. What are some Dashain traditions for children?
Children enjoy Dashain by:
- Flying kites (Changa)
- Playing on traditional bamboo swings (Linge Ping)
- Receiving Dakshina (money gifts) from elders
- Eating festive foods
9. Are there any environmental concerns related to Dashain?
Some Dashain practices, such as animal sacrifices and firecrackers, raise concerns about animal rights and pollution. Many people now opt for symbolic offerings and eco-friendly celebrations.
10. How can people celebrate Dashain if they are away from home?
Those away from Nepal can celebrate by:
- Video calling family for Tika blessings
- Cooking traditional foods at home
- Organizing Dashain gatherings with Nepalese friends
- Flying kites and playing traditional games
Let me know if you need more details! 😊
