Dashain Festival in 2024

There are almost 142 distinct ethnic groups in Nepal. Every group celebrates its own holidays and has its own unique customs, beliefs, and special occasions. The festival that is most widely observed in Nepal is called “The Dashain Festival.”

Each year, the dates change. The Dashain festival takes place in 2024 from October 3rd to October 12th. The Dashain Festival takes place from the 17th to the 26th of Ashwin 2081 BS, according to the Nepali Calendar 2081.

“Re-united” is the most frequently given response when you ask any random Nepali to describe the Dashain Festival? Families get together, gather around the house, and enjoy a variety of Nepalese dishes during the festival. Across the nation, the festival exudes a certain joy and happiness. Every year, the entire Nepalese population celebrates Dashain with great enthusiasm. 

Why is the Dashain festival celebrated?

In Nepal, there is an old story behind every festival. According to ancient Hindu legends, this event signifies the triumph of good over evil. A demon called Mahisasur and the goddess Durga engaged in a protracted, intense battle that lasted for nine days. Despite the size of the battle, the powerful evil force prevailed. The demon was killed by the goddess’ beating. Her victory was celebrated on the tenth day. This day has been observed as a festival ever since.

The conflict between Lord Ram and the Devil, Ravan, is another tale that explains the origin. According to the Hindu mythology book Ramayana, a bloody war broke out after Ravan abducted Mother Sita. Finally, peace returned after Lord Ram vanquished Ravan. Dashain served as a symbol of celebration for this loss.

The triumph of good over evil is, in essence, the festival’s central theme. However, it’s also about families coming together and enjoying this holiday together. We learn from the Dashain festival that kindness always wins.

How do People Celebrate Dashain for Ten days?

For ten days, the Dashain festival is observed. Each day has its own significance and customs. The family members clean the prayer room and decorate the statue of the Goddess Durga on the first day, which is called Ghatasthapana. The barley seed is planted in a clay pot and grows into a tiny grass known as “Jamara.” On the tenth day of the Dashain festival, it is utilized.

The Dashain festival is celebrated for ten days. Every day has its own traditions and meanings. On the first day, known as Ghatasthapana, the family members clean the prayer room and adorn the statue of the Goddess Durga. It is a clay pot in which the barley seed is planted and grows into a tiny grass called “Jamara.” It is used on the tenth day of the Dashain festival.

However, this year, on October 11, 2024, the Maha Ashtami and Nawami lie on the same day. Goddess Kali, Durga’s most terrifying incarnation, is honored on this day. On this day, 54 buffalos and 54 goats are sacrificed in Kathmandu Durbar Square’s courtyard. The meat is brought home to be prepared for the feast, and the blood is offered to the gods. The “Jamara” sown on Ghatasthapana is offered to various temples and shrines by each household. Likewise, special armory pujas are performed by security forces.

Vijaya Dashami is the name of the final day of Dashain. Elders give juniors “Jamara” and wear tika on this holy day. Additionally, they give money after donning the tika. Rice, curd, and red powder are used to make these tika. Families then eat dinner together and spend time talking or playing cards.

Another name for this is the Festival of Kites. In order to symbolize the end of the monsoon season, both adults and children fly kites. The kites are considered a significant means of reminding the rain god to stop making rain. High wooden swings are also erected in grounds and open areas during Dashain. Because it resembles Shiva Linga, the swing is also called Linge Ping. It is thought that one has to swing on the swing once a year in order to get off the ground.

Why is Dashain such a grand festival for Nepalese people?

Clear skies, children running in brand-new clothes, and family members living together are all visible on Dashain. Doesn’t that sound lovely?

Families and friends who live far away save money, purchase presents, and travel to their villages to see their loved ones. Everyone comes together and creates a sense of harmony during the Dashain festival. Furthermore, because this is a widely observed festival, colleges and schools are closed. It’s an indescribable feeling to have kids in the house celebrating Dashain.

To put it briefly, the Dashain Festival entails cleaning the house, purchasing new furniture, curtains, and clothing, as well as enjoying delectable meals. Because Dashain is a festival that appeals to people of all ages, everyone enjoys it.

When is the Dashain Festival in 2024?

On October 3rd, Dashain 2024 begins with Ghatasthapana. On October 10th, Phulpati will be the seventh day. Maha Ashtami and Maha Navami fall on October 11 and 12, respectively, while Vijaya Dashami falls on October 12 (the Nepali calendar’s Dashain Tika date is Ashoj 26).

The following five days following Vijaya Dashami, Kojagrat Purnima, are dedicated to celebrating this festival. Families and relatives would visit one another’s homes during those times, dress in tika, feast, and generally have a great time.

Best Time to Apply Tika for Dashain 2024

In Nepal, 11:36 AM is the most auspicious time to apply tika for Dashain celebrations in 2024. Hindu traditions hold that this is the best time of year because it is full of prosperity and good vibes. The blessings of elders are symbolized by the tika ceremony, and timing is essential to maximizing these spiritual advantages. Families in Nepal can celebrate this sacred festival in harmony and joy at this exact hour, though the best time may vary depending on where you are.

Does the festival time affect your travel plans in Nepal?

Don’t worry; your trip won’t be ruined by Nepal’s festivals. They can actually make it even more spectacular! As you explore Nepal’s breathtaking beauty, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Nepali culture. October through November is unquestionably the ideal time of year to trek. Are you aware of why? By then, Nepal’s largest celebration, Dashain, will have taken place, the monsoon will have passed, and the skies will be clearer than ever.