Dashain, Nepal’s longest and most cherished festival, is a profound reminder of the victory of good over evil, celebrated for 15 days during the month of Ashoj (Ashwin). The festival’s essence, shared between Nepal and India, centers on this triumph of righteousness. In Nepal, Dashain honors Goddess Durga’s defeat of the demon king Mahishasura. The festival unfolds over several significant days.

Ghatasthapana inaugurates the festival, symbolizing the establishment of a pot. A Kalash filled with holy river sand and barley seeds represents the victory of Goddess Durga over evil as the seeds sprout into lush Jamara within ten days. Fulpati, on the seventh day, ties a red cloth around the Kalash, Jamara, sugarcane, and banana stalks, symbolizing the arrival of goddesses who bring health, wealth, and prosperity to homes.

On Maha Ashtami, the eighth day, animal sacrifices are made to please the Goddess Kali, later consumed as ‘prasad.’ On Navami, the ninth day, Taleju temples open across Nepal for worship, leading to Dashami, the tenth day, known for Tika. Tika, a mixture of rice, yogurt, and vermillion, symbolizes unity and bonds.

Elaborate festivals call for elaborate shopping, and Dashain is no exception. Dashain shopping is a tradition in itself, encompassing several aspects:

Pooja Samagri

Preparing for the rituals begins with stocking up on pooja supplies like khutte diyo, copper pooja thali, or damaru.

Clothing

Dashain mandates new clothes and accessories. Traditional dresses, scarves, Dashain shirts, Dhaka topi, and Bhadgaule topi are popular choices.

Handicrafts

Explore the world of handicrafts, including singing bowls, incense holders, Thangka paintings, and keychains, to imbue your surroundings with a festive spirit.

Home Products

Transform your living space with statues, Dhaka, Khukuri, souvenirs, and handwoven baskets called bamboo dalo. These items evoke a sense of home away from home.

This Dashain embraces the essence of Nepal by choosing Made in Nepal products and supporting local artisans and businesses. If you’re far from home and longing for a taste of Nepal, platforms like Foomantra.com offer a touch of Nepal to complete your shopping needs.

Dashain is more than a festival; it’s a vibrant tapestry of tradition, unity, and celebration that brings people together, no matter where they are. It’s a time to cherish the victory of good over evil and create lasting memories with loved ones.

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