Hindus in Nepal celebrate the tenth day of the festival of Dashain by receiving “tika” (mixture of vermillion powder, curd, rice grains) and blessings from elders.
The worship of Sri Durga Bhawani at Dasainghars over nine days concludes formally on the day of Bijaya Dashami after the Abhishekh or sprinkling of holy water takes place marking the beginning of applicatoion of tika. People receive ‘tika’ and ‘jamara’ till the full moon day which is October 28 in 2023. Tika and jamara are considered auspicious gifts of the goddess Durga and they signify prosperity.
Speaking to ANI, Devyani Rajya Laxmi Shah, a resident said, “On the 10th day of Dashain we put ‘tika’ (on the forehead) from elders and they give us blessings wishing us with good education, prosperity and many other good things. She made the remarks after receiving tika from her elders.
It is believed that one need not seek an auspicious hour if one undertakes any new assignment, campaign or journey on the auspicious day of Bijaya Dashami. The Bijaya Dashami festival is celebrated in commemoration of the victory of truth over evil and the victory of divine forces over demonic forces.
Nepal President Ram Chandra Paudel today extended wishes to people on Dashain. In his message of best wishes on the occasion of the Bada Dashain festival, Paudel has wished peace, prosperity, happiness, good health, longevity and progress to people.
Paudel has expressed his belief that the festival, which signifies the victory of virtue over vice, and mutual goodwill, fraternity, and reunification in society, will inspire people of Nepal to promote social harmony, unity, solidarity, justice and equality.
He noted, “Such festivals that are celebrated with great enthusiasm in our country have contributed to further strengthen our geographical, cultural, and linguistic diversities, keeping our cultural unity and identity intact.” In the message, he stated, “May this festival inspire all of us to take the country towards the path of prosperity.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has said the government is actively working to drive the nation towards the path of prosperity and bring positive changes to the people’s lives with the institutionalization of good governance and social justice.
In his best wishes on the occasion of the Bijaya Dashami festival, he said the public support to all the efforts of the government is very significant for building a prosperous Nepal. He insisted on the need for thinking collectively and positively to take strides towards a better nation.
Dahal stressed that the existing pressure on the economy, traditional approaches in development endeavors and structural obstructions to advancement could be overcome with dedicated efforts focusing on the nation, nationality and the people. Actions with dedication are needed to realize the long cherished dream of good governance, social justice and prosperity, he stated in his message.
He underlined the need for a positive and creative approach to dispel superstitions and aristocratic beliefs associated with the traditional festivals of Nepal while preserving their positive elements and the fundamental values they represent.
He also extended his wishes for happiness, peace, good health, long life, prosperity, and continuous progress to all the people of Nepal, both at home and abroad.
(With inputs from ANI)
