Celebrating Dussehra in Nepal: Traditions and Festivities
Dussehra, also known as Dashain, is Nepal’s most significant and widely celebrated festival. Lasting for 15 days, it honours Goddess Durga and symbolises the victory of good over evil, bringing together family, faith, and community across the nation.The opening rite is Ghatasthapana, when a kalash filled with holy water is kept, and barley seeds are planted to grow jamara. Day 7 brings Phulpati, a state ceremony with sacred offerings brought from Gorkha to Kathmandu with military honours and public attendance. The peak falls on Vijaya Dashami, when elders place tika made of rice, yoghurt and vermilion on younger relatives and give Jamara as a blessing for health and fortune.
Across towns and villages, the Dussehra celebration in Nepal also included bamboo swings called ping, kite flying that signals clear autumn skies, and markets busy with new clothes, sweets and gifts. Many families visit Durga and Kali temples for special worship, while Malshree music plays through the season. The final day is Kojagrat Purnima, devoted to Lakshmi, when families stay awake in hope of prosperity. By the time the full moon sets, you will have seen a country at home with its traditions and a festival that ties family, faith and community together.
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