As the leaves start to change color and there is beautiful air of autumn, the excitement for Dashain starts. Dashain is one of the biggest and most celebrated festivals in Nepal. It is a 15 day long festival that brings families, communities, and the entire nation together. It is also known as Bada Dashain or Vijaya Dashami. It takes place in September or October. It starts in the lunar fortnight (Shukla Paksha) and ends on the day of the full moon (Purnima). On this year 2081, it will take place from Asoj 17 to Kartik 1st (October 3rd to October 17, 2024) according to the Nepali calendar.
The Story Behind Dashain
Dashain is originated from the ancient Hindu stories or myths. It is related to the fight between good and evil. There are two main stories that explain where Dashain comes from. Both of the stories show the power of good against bad.
The battle between Durga and the Demon Mahishasura:
According to Hindu mythology, there was a powerful demon king called “Mahishasura” a long time ago. Mahishasura is a Sanskrit word which is composed of two words “Mahisha” and “asura”. In Sanskrit, Mahisha means “buffalo” and asura means “demon”, translating to “buffalo demon”.
Mahishasura was not always a demon. He was born as a union of Rambha and she buffalo called Mahisi. He was a half man and half buffalo. His father, Rambha, was a powerful demon who could change his shape at will. His mother, Mahisi, was a buffalo who was also a demon.
Mahishasura was a powerful and ambitious demon who wanted to become the most powerful being in the universe. He began to worship the god Brahma. Then the god Brahma was pleased with his devotion and granted him a boon. Mahishasura asked Brahma to make him so much strong that no one could kill him. Brahma granted his wish but with a condition. He said that Mahishasura could only be killed by a woman.
Then Mahishasura was unstoppable. He started to destroy everything in the universe. No one could stop him. The gods and goddesses ran to the mountains to hide because they could not defeat him.
Then, Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva decided to create a powerful goddess to defeat Mahishasura. They combined their powers and created Durga. Vishnu gave her a Chakra, Shiva gave her a trident, and Indra gave her a thunderbolt as a weapon.
Then the battle started between them. On the first day of the battle, Durga rode her lion into the battlefield, where Mahishasura and his army were waiting. Durga used her trident to kill many of Mahishasura’s army. But, the demon king was not easily defeated.
The fight between Goddess Durga and Mahishasura was huge and went on for nine nights and ten days. On the tenth day of the battle, Durga finally defeated Mahishasura. She pierced his chest with her trident. This day is celebrated as Vijaya Dashami, which means “victory on the tenth day”. The gods and everyone in the heavens were so happy. Goddess Durga was given the name “Mahishasuramardini” after her victory. It means the killer of the demon Mahishasura. This story teaches us that good always wins over evil, no matter how strong the bad guy seems.
The battle between Durga and Mahishasura also represents the inner struggle between good and evil that takes place within each person. Durga represents the good qualities of courage and wisdom. Mahishasura represents the evil qualities of greed, anger, and ignorance.
The Story of King Rama and the Demon King Ravana:
There is also another story about the origins of Dashain. It is also a celebration of good over evil. It is related to the story of King Ram and the demon king Ravana. According to the Hindu mythology, King Ram was the prince of Ayodhya. He was known for his bravery, kindness, and honesty. He was the son of King Dasharatha and Queen Kaushalya.
And, Ravana was a demon king. He was the king of Lanka and was known for his cruelty, greed, and power. He had ten heads and was a skilled warrior.
According to the story, Prince Ram married Princess Sita. But, one day, Ravana kidnapped Sita and took her to Lanka. Ram was heartbroken and planned to rescue his wife. He asked for help from his loyal brother, Laxman, and a clever monkey named Hanuman. Then they started their journey to Lanka to save Sita. On the way, they faced many challenges but they never gave up.
When they finally reached Lanka, Ram and Laxman fought a battle against Ravana and his army. The battle lasted for ten days. In the end, Ram used a special weapon called the Brahmastra to defeat Ravana and, save Sita.
So, Vijaya Dashami is celebrated for Ram’s victory.
Both the stories represent the struggle between good and evil. Durga’s victory over Mahishasura and Ram’s victory over Ravana shows that good will always win over bad.
Who started Dashain in Nepal?
There is no clear historical record of who exactly started the Dashain celebration in Nepal. However, based on an analysis of ancient scriptures, the origins of Dashain in Nepal may have originated in 1375. Many say that Nepal started celebrating the Dashain after Prithvi Narayan Shah’s era in the 18th century.
In conclusion, it is difficult to pinpoint a single person who started the celebration of Dashain in Nepal. But it is clear that this festival has a rich history and has various cultural and historical factors.
Key Dates and Auspicious time of Dashain 2024 (Dashain 2081) in Nepal:
Here are the auspicious dates and times of Dashain 2024 (Dashain 2081) in Nepal:
| Date | Day | Event | Auspicious time |
| 17th Ashoj, 2081 (3rd October, 2024) | Thursday | Ghatasthapana | 09:16 AM |
| 18th Ashoj 2081 (4th October 2024) | Friday | Changing of National flag | 09:14 AM (Face West Direction) |
| 22nd Ashoj 2081 (8th October 2024).
|
Tuesday | Shree Pachali Bhairav Yatra | |
| 24th Ashoj 2081 (10th October 2024) | Thursday | Fulpati | 7:11 AM |
| 24th Ashoj 2081 (10th October 2024) | Thursday | Sthirasan | 8:43 AM |
| 25th Ashoj 2081 (11th October 2024) | Friday | Maha Ashtami, Kalratri, and Mahanavami | |
| 26th Ashoj 2081 (12th October 2024) | Saturday | Bijaya Dashami Tika | 11:36 AM (Face East Direction) |
| 26th Ashoj 2081 (12th October 2024) | Saturday | Taleju Bhawani Yatra | 11:57 AM |
The Nepal Panchang Nirnayak Bikas Samiti has released the auspicious times of the Dashain festival for 2081 (2024). The announcement was made on 4th Ashoj, 2081 (20th September 2024). According to them, the auspicious time for Ghatasthapana is set for 17th Ashoj 2081 (3rd October 2021) at 9:16 AM.
There is an auspicious occasion to change the national flag on 18th Ashoj 2081 (4th October 2024). The time is set for 9:14 AM. During this ceremony, one must face west to hoist the flag.
The auspicious time for the Pachali Bhairav Yatra is declared on 22nd Ashwin 2081 (8th October 2024).
Then, bringing in Fulpati is set on 24th Ashoj 2081 (1oth October 2024) at 7:11 AM, with the stability ceremony (Sthirasan) at 8:43 AM.
Maha Ashtami, Kalratri, and Mahanavami, all occasion falls on the same day on 25th Ashoj 2081 (11th October 2024).
Finally, the most auspicious time for Bijaya Dashami Tika is on 26th Ashoj 2081 (12th October 2024) at 11:36 AM. Those receiving Tika should face the east. Devi Visarjan’s time is declared at 8:33 AM on the same day.
For the Taleju Bhawani Yatra, the auspicious time is set for 11:57 AM in the same day.
Here is the official released document of Nepal Panchang Nirnayak Bikas Samiti:
International Calendar Committee Sets Auspicious Time for Tika in 23 Countries
Did you know? The International Calendar Determination Committee (Antarastriya Panchang Nirnayak Samiti) just announced the best time for receiving Tika. This schedule has been published for 32 locations across 23 countries this year. The committee finds auspicious times (shubh muhurat) for people in different countries. Those countries include the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Japan, Myanmar, and other nations.
This year, the Bijaya Dashami auspicious time is on 26th Ashoj 2081 (12th October 2024) at 11:36 AM in Kathmandu, Nepal. Similarly, the auspicious time for Delhi, India is on 26th Ashoj 2081 (12th October 2024) at 11:42 AM. In the U.S., it’s on 26th Ashoj 2081 (12th October 2024). The times are: New York 10:01 AM, Frankfurt Kentucky 10:31 AM, Owensboro Kentucky 9:45 AM, Texas 10:05 AM, Washington D.C. 9:55 AM, and California 9:39 AM.
Likewise, in Canada, the timing is on 26th Ashoj 2081 (12th October 2024), with Toronto at 10:15 AM, and Vancouver at 10:27 AM.
Similarly, auspicious time has been set to other countries in same day 26th Ashoj 2081 (12th October 2024) in different time. Like for Lisbon, Portugal at 10:24 AM, for London, United Kingdom at 10:21 am, for Paris, France at 10:23 AM, for Oslo, Norway at 10:19 AM, for Bangkok, Thailand at 11:21 AM, for Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia at 11:57 AM, for Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates at 11:45 AM, for Doha, Qatar at 11:05 AM, for Tel Aviv, Israel at 9:16 AM, for Singapore at 11: 45 AM, for Saudi Arabia at 11:23 AM, for Yangon, Myanmar at 11:21 AM, for Geneva, Switzerland at 11:55 AM and for Malta at 10:45 AM..
In Tokyo, Japan, the auspicious time is set for 27th Ashoj 2081 (13th October 2024) at 11:35 AM. Similarly, for Wellington, New Zealand is on 27th Ashoj 2081 (13th October 2024) at 11:25 AM. For Seoul, South Korea, it’s on 27th Ashoj 2081 (13th October 2024) at 9:15 AM. For Hong Kong, it’s at 11:43 AM on 27th Ashoj 2081 (13th October 2024).
In Australia, the timing is 27th Ashoj 2081 (13th October 2024), with Sydney at 11:21 AM, Melbourne at 11:27 AM, Brisbane at 11:29 AM and Canberra at 11:15 AM
It’s amazing that people from all around the world can celebrate Dashain together, even if they are far from home. Let’s get ready to celebrate Dashain and receive our Tika from all part of the world.
Here is the official released document of Antarastriya Panchang Nirnayak Samiti:
Key Highlights of Dashain:
Family reunions
Many people go to the cities or abroad in search of better opportunities. Many Family members are separated in search of better work and study. In Dashain, family members who live far away from their homes start returning to their homes. People travel from all over the country and abroad to reunite. This is a special time for them to reconnect with their loved ones and have quality time with them. They exchange gifts and blessings with each other.
Puja and Rituals
Dashain is not only a time for family, fun, and feasts but also a spiritual festival. Many puja and rituals are performed during the Dashain ceremony. Mainly Goddess Durga is worshipped during Dashain. It begins with Ghatasthapana, where barley seeds are planted to grow as Jamara. In Phulpati, different flowers are brought into the home and worshipped. Different Pujas are done in Maha Ashtami and Maha Nawami. The most special day is Bijaya Dashami. On this day, elders place tika on the foreheads of younger family members and give them Jamara and blessings. People of different cultural backgrounds have their own way of doing puja and rituals.
Tika, Dakshina, Jamara (Barley Grass) and blessings
Tika, Jamara and the blessing play an important role during Dashain. Tika is a mixture of rice grains, vermilion, and curd. It is applied to the foreheads of family members by the elders. This ritual occurs on the 10th day of Dashain on Bijaya Dashami.
Jamara is also known as barley grass. It is the green grass that grows from the seed that we planted on day 1st, Ghatasthapana. And, Dakshina refers to the money given by elders as a gift to youngers. It can be a small amount of money or a large amount of money depending upon the giver. They gave Jamara and Dakshina with blessing while putting tika. It is not compulsory to give the money or Dakshina . Some people also give fruits instead of money.
For some children, collecting the Dakshina and comparing it with each other is the most exciting moment.
Animal Sacrifice
During Dashain, thousands of animals are sacrificed. It includes goats, buffaloes, sheep, ducks, and chickens. The sacrifices usually take place in temples, open spaces, or houses. After the sacrifice, the meat is offered to god, distributed among family members, friends, and sometimes the society. It is prepared and consumed as part of the Dashain feasts. Most people sacrifice animals on the day of Maha Ashtami and Maha Nawami.
At the Taleju Temple of Hanumandhoka in Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur, many animals are sacrificed as an offerings to the goddess. It is mostly on the occasions of Maha Ashtami and Maha Nawami. Pension Management Office (PMO) and Guthi Sansthan have provided four-legged and two-legged animals. It is for sacrificing at various shrines in the country. During the 15-day Dashain festival, PMO manages 162 he-buffaloes and 187 he-goats to sacrifice.
He-goats are sacrificed every day from the day of Ghatasthapana to Maha Nawami. A total of nine he-goats are sacrificed in 9 days. Also, 8 he-goats are sacrificed in the morning and 54 he-goats, 54 he-buffaloes and a duck are sacrificed in the evening. Similar mass sacrificial of 54 he-goats and 54 he-buffaloes are done on the day of Chaturdashi, Around 60 to 65 four-legged and two-legged animals are provided to sacrifice at many other shrines.
Also in the Pashupati area, the government provides 12 he-goats, 4 he-buffaloes, and 8 ducks to sacrifice at Guheshwori, Rameshwori, and other temples.
In Hinduism, animal sacrifice is not a compulsory practice. There are various alternatives to offer to the gods and goddesses. You can offer fruits, sweet dishes, coconut, and Selroti too.
Delicious Feast
All the family members travel and reunite together in Dashain. They celebrate, enjoy, have fun as well as have delicious food. One of the main feasts of Dashain is Goat Curry. Many people prepare dishes like Sel roti, homemade sweets. Sharing food during Dashain is an expression of love and care. When families gather around the table, they are not just eating. But, they are creating memories, sharing stories, and strengthening their bonds.
Flying kites and Gambling
Flying kites is a popular activity during Dashain. It is believed to bring good luck and prosperity. It also brings people together, promoting bonding and social interaction. People of all ages gather to fly kites and enjoy the festive atmosphere. They fly kites in open spaces, such as parks, fields, and rooftops. The kites are made of colorful paper and string. Nowadays, several organizations also organize kite festivals during Dashain.
Gambling is officially illegal in Nepal, but during Dashain, people gamble. It is for fun among friends and family. Families and friends gather together to play cards. It can be the popular games such as marriage, dhumbal, and tinpati. These games can be played with a small amount of money. You should not be greedy and be careful while playing with family and friends. In the name of fun and excitement, if you are playing recklessly with spending lots of money, it can financially burden you. In the name of fun, financial problems as well as relation issues can happen. So, you should be careful while playing.
Playing swings (Ping)
Dashain swings are also called “Ping” or “Linge Ping” in the Nepali language. These swings are made up of 4 bamboo sticks, and strong rope made of jute and wood. We can see such type of swings in different places in Nepal during Dashain.
There is also a tradition saying that during Dashain, one must at least once hop on a swing and separate from the ground. People, especially children and young adults, take turns swinging on the swing. It is fun and exciting as well as it represents the culture in Nepal. The swings will remain in the same place until after Tihar, the festival that follows Dashain.
Malshree Dhun: The Traditional Music of Dashain
When it comes to Dashain, Malshree Dhun (tone) (मालश्री धून) is also the first thing that comes to mind. The word “Malshree” is combined by using two words “Mal and “Shree”. The word ‘Mal’ means goods and ‘Shree’ refers to the blessings of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. It is a traditional Nepali folk music that is played during the Dashain festival. This dhun or tune was first created by the Newa community of the Kathmandu Valley some 450 years ago. Mostly the instruments used in Malshree dhun during Dashain include the sitar, tabla, taa, and flute.
The Significance of Malshree Dhun
Social Significance
Malshree dhun is a way of bringing people together. It is played during family gatherings and community events in Dashain. It is also believed to bring feelings of unity.
Emotional Significance
Malshree dhun is a way of expressing emotions and feelings. It is a way of celebrating the victory of good over evil.
Spiritual Significance
Malshree dhun is a way of connecting with the divine. It is played during puja (worship) during Dashain. It is also believed that it has the power to purify the mind and soul.
Historical Significance
Malshree dhun has a rich history that takes you back to the ancient times. It is a representation of the country’s cultural and musical heritage. It is a way of preserving the country’s traditions and customs.
Seasonal Significance
Malshree dhun is also linked to Sharad (autumn) season. It represents the change from the monsoon to autumn season during Dashain.
Structure of Dashain Celebration:
As we already know the Dashain festival is celebrated for 15 days. The festival begins on Ghatasthapana and ends on Kojagrat Purnima.
In 2024, Dashain begins on October 3 and concludes on October 17. The festival’s timeline includes different significant days. Each day has its unique rituals and customs. Here’s a breakdown of the most important days:
Day 1: Ghatasthapana
Ghatasthapana is the first day of Dashain. It falls on the bright lunar fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of the month of Ashwin or Kartik (September or October). The meaning of the word “Ghatasthapana” means “establishing the pot.” The word “Ghata” refers to the pot, and “Sthapana” means to establish or set up.
People soak barley seeds, corn and wheat overnight. Then, early in the morning of Ghatasthapana, people clean their houses and the area where rituals will take place. Then they take the necessary materials such as a deep bowl or container, Kalash (Pot), sand, soil, cow dung, holy water, flowers, fruits, Diyo (a lamp) and other puja items.
Then, people fill the deep bowl or container with a layer of sand. Then they sprinkle the mixture of barley seeds, corn and wheat for Jamara. Then, again sprinkle a thin layer of sand. Then they sprinkle some water on it. Then sand should be moist. Then people cover it with another container and put it in a dark room away from the sun.
Then they place the flowers and lit light every morning or evening. Even some people lit the lamp for all nine days. They also place the picture of Goddess Durga and worship it by offering fruits, aarti and flowers. Some people do all these processes by looking at the auspicious time. The auspicious time is determined by the priest or the astrologer.
So by following these steps, people perform the Ghatasthapana rituals. Traditionally, women and outsiders were not allowed to enter the room where rituals were done. Every day the male devotee bath in the morning and evening and worshipped it. But today in the modern world, women are now permitted to worship it due to social advancements.
Day 7: Phulpati
Phulpati is on the seventh day of Dashain. The word “Phulpati” comes from two Nepali words. “Phul” means flower, and “Pati” means leaves or a collection. Thus, Phulpati refers to a bouquet or collection of sacred flowers, leaves, and plants.
On this day, people clean their houses and bring nine different flowers and leaves. It is the belief of welcoming nine gods and goddesses. It is also believed that bringing these flowers means welcoming good health, fortune, and wealth in the house. Nine different varieties of leaves include banana, pomegranate, paddy, haldi, mane, karchura, vine, Ashoka, and jayanti. In these nine leaves, Brahmani, Rakchachandika, Lakshmi, Durga, Chamunda, Kalika, Shiva, Shokaharini and Karthiki Devi are worshiped.
Not only that, the Phulpati is brought from the ancient Gorkha Durbar (palace) to the Hanuman Dhoka Palace in Kathmandu. Phulpati is prepared in a royal Kalash (Pot) with the Jamara, banana stalks and sugar cane tied with red cloth. Then it is brought by six people of the Magar caste from Gorkha to Jeevanpur of Dhading district including the priests. Then, after that, Brahmins from Jeevanpur of Dhading district bring it to Hanuman dhoka, Kathmandu. It takes about 3 days (169 kilometers) to bring that from Gorkha to Hanuman dhoka in Kathmandu.
Along with the Phulpati, the Gurujyuko Paltan, the Nepal Army, the Nepal Police, high-ranking officials of the Armed Police Force Nepal, civil service, the Asha Gurja team, band music, panchebaja, decorated kalsyoulis, and a cultural pageantry move from Jamal. Then, in Hanumandhoka palace, Phulpati is welcomed in Dashain ghar. The royal priest performs a special puja (worship) to welcome the Phulpati. Then Phulpati is placed in the Dashain Ghar, where it will remain throughout the festival.
On this day, Tudikhel is also decorated with many colorful flags. Nepal Army organizes a parade at Tudikhel. Different types of performances, dances, horse marches, khukuri drills, and gun fires are performed at the Tudikhel. It is observed by the president and government officers every year.
Previously, the Royal family was there to observe the parade. But, after 2008, the royal family was overthrown and now, the president of Nepal has replaced the king to hold the ceremony.
All the government offices and private offices are also closed from this day encouraging people to go to their ancestral home.
Day 8: Maha Ashtami
Maha Ashtami is the eighth day of Dashain. In this day, people worship the goddess Durga, sacrifice different animals and offer to the god. Different puja and rituals are also performed. Different people from different cultural backgrounds have their own way of doing puja and rituals.
On this day, people worship the goddesses Mahakali, Mahalaxmi and Maha Saraswati. They go to various temples in Kathmandu Valley from early morning. They sacrifice animals and offer god. People also worship weapons, vehicles and machines. People who don’t sacrifice animals offer different fruits and vegetables in temples.
Also on the night of Maha Ashtami, 54 goats and 54 oxen are sacrificed inside Hanumandhoka. Then, a special Kalaratri is held at midnight at the Dashain Ghar of Hanumandhoka.
Day 9: Maha Nawami
Maha Nawami or or Ashwin Shukla Nawami is the ninth day of the Dashain festival. On this day also, people worship gods and goddesses. They sacrifice animals and offer them to gods. The god of creation and craftsmanship, Vishvakarma, is also worshipped on this day. Tools and equipment are cleaned. People worship them for more success and prosperity in work. People gather and celebrate the festival. They fly kites, play cards and swing. Mainly, people visit Taleju temple on this day.
So, do you know what Taleju Temple in Kathmandu is? Why Taleju temple is visited? The Taleju temple of Kathmandu was built by King Mahendra Malla in 1564. It’s located in Hanuman Dhoka, Kathmandu Durbar Square which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This temple is open to the public on Maha Nawami, but only on this one day. Inside the main Taleju temple itself are golden statues depicting the ten-armed goddess along with shrines to both Taleju Bhawani and the Living goddess, Kumari.
So are you confused about the Entrance fee to enter Taleju temple? It is free of cost to visit Taleju Temple. It is so crowded on this day because it is open only on this day. So, if you want to visit, you can visit Taleju temple early in the morning, before the crowds arrive. You should be patient and respectful of the temple’s rules. You can also offer flowers or fruits to the goddess.
Day 10: Bijaya Dashami (Vijaya Dashami)
Bijaya Dashami is also known as Vijaya Dashami. It is the 10th and most important day of Dashain. On this day, Goddess Durga defeated the demon Mahishasura and it reflects the victory of good over evil. On this day, people do puja and rituals. The family gathers and puts Tika and Jamara. Elders put Tika on the forehead of the younger ones. They give them blessings (dashain ashirbad), Jamara and Dakshina. People wear new clothes and visit to their relative’s homes to get Tika, Jamara and blessings. They reunite and share love and happiness. They prepare delicious food, and drinks and enjoy the feast.
Day 15: Kojagrata Purnima
Kojagrata Purnima is the last and 15th day of the biggest festival, Dashain. It is also known as Sharad Purnima. According to the Nepali calendar, Kojagiri Purnima is celebrated on the full moon day in the month of Ashwin (September–October). On this day, people celebrate Maha Laxmi, a Hindu goddess. Thus, it is thought that goddess Laxmi asks, “Ko Jageko cha?” (Which translates to, “Who is awake?”) as soon as she gets home at night. Thus, “Kojagrata is also related to it” is a term. “Kojagarti” means “who is awake,” and that is where the name Kojagrata originates. People stay awake all night, sing devotional songs, and enjoy the night.
In certain areas of Nepal and India, Kojagrat Purnima is also called Kumara Purnima, Kojagiri Purnima, Navanna Purnima, or Kaumudi Purnima.
So, this is how the Bada Dashain ends.
Significance of Dashain in Nepali Culture
Nepal is rich in cultures, traditions, festivals, and rituals. The festivals are not just about celebrations, but they also carry a deep meaning. It plays an important role in preserving the country’s heritage. There are many festivals in Nepal from small to big. They have their own importance. Talking about the biggest festival, Dashain also has its significance. Let’s explore some significance of the Dashain festival:
Social Significance of Dashain
The importance of Dashain in society is that it will help to bring people together, promote social harmony, and strengthen family bonds. Let’s know about how it will help in society:
Family Reunions and Social Bonding
Dashain is a time when all the families come together. Many people living away from home return to celebrate with their families. This reunion strengthens family bonding. It’s not just a reunion of the families but it is also about neighbors and friends. All people living in the society participate in the celebrations. They wish each other Dashain saying “Happy Dashain” or “Dashain ko Suvakamana”. So, there will be more social bonding among them.
Social Harmony and Renewal
Dashain is also a time for people to forgive past mistakes and start a new beginning. It helps in social harmony and peace among each other. Nowadays different types of cultural programs and gatherings are also organized. It helps in social interaction and maintaining harmony.
Economic Significance of Dashain
Dashain plays an important role in the country’s economy. As we already know that, families are reunited, different rituals are performed, gifts are exchanged, and delicious feasts are eaten. So, it suddenly brings an increment in economic activity in the country. It helps in various sectors from farmers and local businesses to large companies. Let’s explore the economic significance of Dashain and how it affects the lives of Nepali people:
A Boost for Local Markets and Businesses
Dashain is one of the busiest shopping times of the year in Nepal. People spend more money than usual. The excitement of Dashain makes people buy more things. All the markets are filled with people purchasing new clothing, decorations, food, and gifts. If the people spend more money then, it will be beneficial to local shops, traders, and businesses.
Shoes and Clothing:
One of the most exciting parts of Dashain for many people is buying new clothes and shoes. Many people wear new outfits during the festival. People buy it for themselves as well as for their family. So, this leads to demand for more clothes and shoes in the market. Tailors, clothing shops, and shoe shops experience huge sales during this time. Many shops also offer special Dashain or festival discounts to attract more customers.
Food:
Food is also another main part of Dashain celebrations. Families prepare special dishes during the festival. There is a huge demand for ingredients for making food. Butchers, farmers, sweets shops, and grocery stores experienced an increment in their sales during this time. So, it also helps in boosting the economy of a country.
Gift Shops:
Many people exchange gift during Dashain. As people travel to their ancestral home and their friends and relatives, they buy gifts for their relatives, children, and friends. So, buying things as a gift can also help in boosting the local market and large businesses. Many stores also offer special discounts and promotions during the festival to increase more sales.
The Impact on Agriculture
Nepal is an agricultural country. Around 62% of the total population are engaged in agriculture. Farmers depend upon selling crops, fruits, and vegetables to earn money. So, Dashain is important to them because it falls around the end of the monsoon season. Then, the crops are ready for harvest. Then, it is the best time to earn a good income by selling fresh products.
So Dashain festival also plays an important role in boosting the economy of the country. Let’s know how agriculture can also help in economy.
Livestock Sales:
As we know that, Dashain is well known for its ritual of animal sacrifice. Different types of animals and birds like chickens, goats, ducks, and buffalo are sacrificed and offered to the goddess Durga. Then it is also consumed by family and relatives. So, there will be a huge demand for livestock in the market. Some people do animal husbandry. They raise and sell goats, chickens, ducks and buffalo. By selling them during the festive season, they will get more benefits.
Increased Demand for Agricultural Products:
In addition to animals, there is also demand for agricultural products such as grains, fruits, vegetables, and spices. People celebrate Dashain by making and eating different foods like selroti, curry, sweets etc. So, there will be more demand for such items in the market. Then this will be an opportunity for farmers to make more money than normal. So it also helps in the economy.
Tourism and Hospitality
In Dashain, many people travel from one place to another. Some people travel for celebrating Dashain whereas some people travel for enjoyment and recreation. Cultural tourism during Dashain also helps in the economy of the country. It includes:
Increasing Domestic Travel:
During Dashain, many people travel to their hometowns or villages to celebrate with their families and friends. They travel by buses, taxis, and airlines. So, it is a busy period for transportation services. There will be a huge domestic travel making the capital city Kathmandu silent. So, the increases in travel boost the economy in the transportation sector.
Boosting the Hospitality Industry:
Not only domestic travel, but many Nepalese living abroad return home to celebrate with their families. Also, some tourists visit Nepal to experience the festival. Hotels and guesthouses are also benefited from domestic and international travel during this time. This will lead to a higher demand for accommodations which will help boost the hospitality industry.
Remittances and Financial Flow
The remittance also plays an important role in the country’s economy. With more than 2 million Nepalese living abroad, Nepal heavily depends on their remittances. For example, in 2023, Nepal received around USD 11 billion in remittances, which made up over 26% of the nation’s GDP.
So, for many families in Nepal, the money sent by relatives working abroad is their main source of income. It helps them cover the expenses of Dashain, such as buying food, clothes, and gifts. It helps them to celebrate Dashain without financial stress.
Religious Significance of Dashain
Dashain is a time to remember that good will always win. Here are some religious aspects of Dashain:
Worship of Goddess Durga
In Nepal, Dashain is mainly celebrated by remembering Goddess Durga’s victory over Mahishasura. People worship her and celebrate for fifteen days. They offer flowers, fruits, and sweets to the deities.
Rituals and Customs
During Dashain, different pujas are performed. Different types of animals and birds are also sacrificed in the name of god. Daily different types of puja (worship) are done. Phulpati is also welcomed in the Dashain ghar in Humandhoka and daily rituals are done. Vehicles and equipment are also worshipped.
Elders’ Blessings:
One of the most important parts of Dashain is receiving Tika, Jamara and blessings from elders. It shows the respect and the transmission of blessings from one generation to another. This practice helps to know about the importance of family respect and the continuity of tradition.
Dashain in Modern times
Dashain is the biggest festival in Nepal. It is a time of celebration and family gatherings. It’s a time to reconnect with loved ones, forgive, and enjoy delicious food. But how has Dashain changed in the modern world? Let’s have a look at this topic.
Changes in celebrations
By hearing the stories from grandparents and celebrating so many years of Dashain, we have seen many changes. At one time, families and communities would gather in big open spaces, share stories, and enjoy traditional games together. Nowadays, people are moving to cities and different countries. Dashain feels a bit different than in previous days. Technologies have helped us to stay connected. We can share wishes and even see each other through video calls, but the large family gatherings are not as same as before. Different online platforms have been established. People are using online platforms for shopping.
So, let’s see how the celebration has changed over time.
Urbanization and Migration
Urbanization and migration have significantly transformed the celebration of Dashain. We have to change and move according to the time, but the saddest part is that even “Dashain is been changing”. The way of celebrating Dashain is changing. As people move to cities, they often face difficulties in following traditional Dashain rituals. Rituals have also become more simplified due to time constraints and changing lifestyles of the people.
Traditionally, people used to gather, make groups and fly kites. But, nowadays, it has reduced in urban areas like Kathmandu. Many young people now engage in digital forms of celebration, such as online card games and virtual greetings. They are not participating in physical gatherings
More and more Nepalese migrate to cities or abroad for work or education. Families are often scattered across the globe. Many people travel long distances to be together. Some people may find it more difficult to be together for Dashain due to various reasons such as work pressure, no holidays, time constraints and distance.
Impact of technology and social media on the festival
Technology and social media have brought many benefits to life. Due to study and work, people have migrated to different parts of the world. Some people travel to their hometowns and relatives to celebrate the Dashain. But, some people cannot travel. So, in such cases, technology and social media have been so helpful to people. They can do audio and video calls. They can communicate and share their stories digitally. They can wish Dashain digitally. Even nowadays, people are giving digital Dakshina (Monetary gift). There cannot be that physical warmth between families but at least there will be some digital connection between people.
But, there are also some negative impacts of technology and social media on the festival. We used to see many kites flying in the sky. People used to gather and play swings. But, nowadays many people are engaged on their devices. They are in the room playing games on their smartphones and tablets. We rarely see kites in the sky. People used to gather, share their stories, and enjoy with each other. But nowadays, Dashain seems to be for photos only. People just capture the pictures for social media.
So, it’s important to remember that we should move according to time but we should never forget our identity, our traditions and festivals.
Consumerism
Dashain is a festival about celebrating togetherness. Traditionally, people used to gather and enjoy togetherness. They cooked together and ate together. But, in modern days, there is the rise of consumerism during Dashain. There’s a growing tendency to “show off”. They engage in lavish activities as a means of celebration is increasing. Due to consumerism, criminal activities like theft and robbery have also increased.
Many people feel the pressure to buy gifts for loved ones, to impress their friends, and to keep up with the latest trends. It can feel like a competition to see who can buy the most expensive or the most unique gifts.
On one side, consumerism is a boon for the economy. New products will launch and the market will also get benefits. But on the other side, it is like more expenses in unnecessary things. People buy the products more than they need them. People have been changing according to time but their needs and wants are also increasing.
So, at last, we, Amble Himalaya, a company led by strong women, wish everyone a very Happy Bijaya Dashami 2081. We are happy to share this special festival time with you. Dashain is about winning good over bad, and we hope this Dashain brings lots of happiness, health, and success to you all. From our family to yours, “Bada Dashain ko Dherai Dherai Suvakamana“
