Dashain

Dashain (also, “Bada Dashain” or “Vijaya Dashami”) is the national (religious) festival of Nepal. It lasts for 15 days. It is the longest and the most auspicious festival in Nepal, celebrated by Nepalese people throughout the globe. It is not only the longest festival of the country but is also the most anticipated one. The festival falls around October-November, starting from the bright lunar fortnight and ending on the day of full moon. The most important days of the 15-day festival are the 1^st, 7^th, 8^th, 9^th and the 10^th.

The important days are listed with their names as follows:

Day 1: Ghatasthapana
Day 7: Fulpati
Day 8: Maha Asthami
Day 9: Maha Navami
Day 10: Vijaya Dashami

Throughout the country the goddess mother (goddess Durga) is worshipped in all her manifestations. This festival is also known for its emphasis on the family gatherings, as well as on a renewal of community ties. People return from all parts of the country, as well as different parts of the world, to celebrate together. All government offices, educational institutions and other offices remain closed during the festival period. On this festival, people gather with their families and receive the ‘tika’ and ‘jamara’ from their elders, with their blessings for good life and fortune.