The last few days have been a whirlwind of fun, family, and festivities as we’ve been busy celebrating Dashain, one of the most cherished festivals in our culture. It’s always a time of togetherness, where we come together with friends and family to share joy, laughter, and of course, delicious food!
From Tika and Jamara to playing cards and eating delicious food, the spirit of Dashain has been in full swing. We’ve enjoyed the beautiful rituals, reconnected with family, and created unforgettable memories. Here are some glimpses of our celebrations – filled with love, blessings, and happiness.
Dashain is here! The air is filled with excitement, nostalgia, and the promise of family gatherings, food, and festivities. Yesterday marked Ghatasthapana, the first day of Dashain, which sets the tone for the next 15 days of celebration. In households across Nepal—and for Nepali communities around the globe—this day is sacred. It’s the day we plant Jamara, those sprouting yellow-green shoots that symbolize prosperity and blessings.
But what makes Dashain so special?
For starters, it’s not just any festival. Dashain is Nepal’s biggest and longest Hindu festival, celebrated for 15 glorious days of tradition, reunions, and cultural pride. From Ghatasthapana to the grand finale on Vijaya Dashami, it’s a time when families gather, share meals, exchange blessings, and honour the victory of good over evil.
So, if you’re new to Dashain or just looking to rekindle that festive spirit, here’s a peek into why we cherish this time of year!
The Legends Behind Dashain: Why It’s More Than Just a Festival
Dashain is steeped in legends and Hindu mythology. According to one tale, it’s the story of Ram—the hero who defeated the demon king Ravana after nine days of prayer and worshipping Goddess Durga. The tenth day, Dashami, marks Ram’s victory, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
Another tale revolves around Mahishasura, the fearsome demon who terrorized both Earth and Heaven. The gods created Durga, the powerful goddess who battled Mahishasura for nine long days. On the tenth day, Durga slew the demon, marking the day of victory—Vijaya Dashami.
These stories remind us that no matter how challenging life gets, good will always prevail. And that’s why we place tika (a red vermilion paste mixed with rice and yogurt) on our foreheads during Dashain—it’s a blessing for victory, strength, and resilience in the coming year.
Day 1: Ghatasthapana – Planting Jamara, Growing Prosperity
Ghatasthapana (literally meaning “pot establishment”) marks the official start of Dashain. This is the day we plant Jamara—the sacred barley seeds that we lovingly water and nurture for the next ten days. These delicate sprouts will grow to represent blessings, and we use them on Vijaya Dashami for the tika ceremony.
I planted my Jamara yesterday. It’s always a special moment for me—preparing the soil, sowing the seeds, and knowing that in 10 days, those golden-green shoots will be ready for the most important ritual of Dashain. I can’t wait to see how well they grow this year!
Dashain Activities: Where Tradition Meets Fun
What makes Dashain feel so magical is the blend of deep-rooted traditions with simple pleasures. Here are some of the most exciting things we look forward to every Dashain:
1. Kite Flying
As soon as Dashain kicks off, the skies in Nepal fill with colorful kites—each one carrying the message that the monsoon season is over. I have fond memories of rooftop kite battles with my brothers, shouting “Changa Chet!” (which means “kite cut!”) every time we managed to down someone else’s kite. It’s a playful battle that I miss every year.
2. Family Card Games
I can’t talk about Dashain without mentioning the card games! Even though gambling is technically illegal in Nepal, Dashain is an exception. Families gather around with cards, placing small bets (or just playing for fun!). I used to love sneaking into the grown-ups’ game as a kid, hoping to win a few coins.
3. Shopping for New Clothes
Dashain is the time for new clothes! For many families, this is the only time of the year when they can afford new outfits. Shops across Nepal offer crazy discounts, and it’s a rush of excitement as everyone prepares for the festival. I treated myself to a new dress this weekend—because who doesn’t love a reason to shop, right?
4. Bamboo Swings (Ping)
In the countryside, you’ll find bamboo swings constructed just before Dashain. These aren’t your average playground swings either—they’re towering structures that often go 20 feet high! Swinging on a ping is a thrill, and for many, it’s a must-do every year.
The Sweet Chaos: Fairs, Concerts, and Food!
Dashain isn’t just about rituals; it’s also about fun and celebration! Throughout Nepal, you’ll find fairs, concerts, and dashain melas (markets) popping up in towns and cities. These events bring people together for a bit of light-hearted fun—think Ferris wheels, local snacks, and live performances.
And then there’s the food! The streets fill with the smell of fried treats, freshly made sel roti (a traditional rice doughnut), and crispy chatpate (Nepal’s beloved street food). It’s the time to indulge, because Dashain only comes once a year!
Happy Dashain, everyone!
Here are the posts I have written regarding Dashian over the years .
I can hardly believe it—Nepaliaustralian has officially turned 13! When I first started this blog, social media was just beginning to take off, and I had no idea it would connect me with so many amazing people across the globe.
What began as a simple hobby has grown into an incredible journey. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I’d be writing this 13th-anniversary post! This blog has become my personal way of celebrating Nepali culture, traditions, and the unique experience of being a Nepali living in Australia.
As of today, Nepaliaustralian proudly stands at 1,109 posts, 81 pages, 10,714 comments, 2,506,733 page views, 4,447 followers, and 1,383,135 readers from 230 countries. 🙂
I’m beyond grateful to each and every one of you for your support over these 13 years. Your encouragement, comments, likes, and shares have meant the world to me, and I truly couldn’t have come this far without you. Thank you for listening to my stories, sharing in my journey, and showing so much love to my family.
Shrawan, the fourth month in the Nepali Hindu calendar, is steeped in religious and cultural significance. This month is considered the holiest for Hindus, with rituals and traditions that embody devotion, purification, and the deep connection between the divine and human realms.
The word “Sankranti” in the context of Shrawan Sankranti refers to the Sun’s transition from one Rashi (zodiac sign in Nepali astrology) to another, signaling the beginning of a new Nepali month. Specifically, Shrawan Sankranti marks the Sun’s southward journey, an event that is both astronomically and spiritually important.
From the very first day of Shrawan (which fell on July 17 this year), social media and public spaces alike are vibrant with images of women adorned in mehendi (henna) and green and yellow chura (bangles). These colors are not just for beauty; they symbolise fertility, prosperity, and the health of their families. The entire month is dedicated to these rituals, with Mondays, or Shrawan Somvars, being particularly significant. Each Shrawan Somvar, devotees flock to Shiva temples, fasting and offering prayers to Lord Shiva, the god of destruction and transformation.
Shrawan’s importance is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. It is said that Sati Devi, in her previous birth, vowed to have Mahadev (Lord Shiva) as her husband in every lifetime. After her death, she was reborn as Parvati, who fasted and prayed throughout the month of Shrawan, eventually winning Shiva’s heart and becoming his consort. This story is why Shrawan is so sacred and why women, especially, dedicate this month to worshiping Lord Shiva, seeking his blessings for marital bliss and familial prosperity.
Throughout Shrawan, married women wear red attire complemented by green and yellow glass bangles, along with green pote (glass beads) around their necks. These adornments are more than just accessories; they are symbols of devotion and prayers for the long life and well-being of their husbands. For unmarried girls, wearing these bangles during Shrawan is a hopeful gesture, symbolising their wish for a good husband and a happy marriage.
The spiritual fervour of Shrawan is also evident in the Bol Bam pilgrimage. Devotees undertake this challenging journey, walking or running barefoot, often covering great distances to reach the Pashupatinath Temple and other Shiva temples. Along the way, they chant ‘Bol Bam,’ which means “Say Shiva,” as a form of devotion and penance. The pilgrimage is believed to bring blessings, good health, wealth, and happiness to the devotees and their families.
In addition to these rituals, Shrawan is also a time for various religious festivals and fasts. One of the most celebrated festivals during this month is Nag Panchami, where snakes are worshiped as protectors and symbols of fertility. Devotees offer milk, rice, and flowers to snake idols or real snakes, seeking their protection and blessings.
The month is also associated with the practice of fasting, especially by women. Mondays are often observed with strict fasting, where women consume only water or fruits and spend the day in prayer, reciting mantras dedicated to Lord Shiva. These fasts are believed to purify the body and soul, bringing spiritual merit and the fulfillment of desires.
Shrawan is a time when the monsoon season is at its peak in Nepal. The heavy rains are seen as blessings from the gods, nourishing the earth and bringing fertility to the land. This natural abundance is mirrored in the cultural practices of the month, where green, representing life and growth, becomes a dominant color in clothing and decorations.
The vibrancy of Shrawan is not just limited to religious practices but extends to social and familial gatherings. Communities come together to celebrate, share meals, and participate in collective prayers. The month fosters a sense of unity and continuity, as age-old traditions are passed down and kept alive by the younger generations.
Shrawan is a beautiful blend of devotion, tradition, and nature, encapsulating the spiritual essence of Hindu culture. The month is not just about rituals but about reconnecting with one’s roots, honoring the divine, and celebrating the eternal cycle of life.
I am fortunate enough to celebrate this beautiful tradition with my friends here in Australia. Being able to partake in the customs and rituals of Shrawan, even far from home, is a blessing that fills me with joy and a deep sense of connection to my culture. The laughter, the shared stories, and the collective prayers made the experience truly special. It was so much fun to immerse myself in this vibrant tradition, and it’s heartwarming to see our cultural practices thriving across the world. Celebrating Shrawan here reminds me that no matter where we are, our traditions keep us connected to our roots and to each other.
Tanah Lot Temple holds a special place in our hearts after our recent trip to Bali. It’s one of those places you have to plan for, especially considering the tides—high tide can literally cut off access to the temple! So, we kept a close eye on the website to make sure we timed our visit perfectly.
Imagine an ancient Hindu shrine perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop, surrounded by crashing waves and bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun—that’s Tanah Lot Temple. It’s not just a temple; it’s a breathtaking spectacle, offering some of the most stunning sunset views in Bali. We were in awe of its cultural significance and natural beauty, making it an experience we’ll never forget.
Walking across the beach during low tide to reach the temple was an adventure in itself. The waves crashing against the rocks added to the mystical atmosphere, creating a sense of reverence and wonder. It’s no wonder Tanah Lot is considered one of Bali’s most iconic and picturesque temples!
The area around Tanah Lot is bustling with activity, yet it retains a serene and spiritual ambiance. We enjoyed exploring the shops filled with local crafts, savouring delicious Balinese cuisine at the nearby restaurants, and even catching some traditional cultural performances.
For our kids, the highlight was definitely the sea area where the waves crashed against the rocks. They had a blast watching the waves and exploring the sandy shores around the temple. As for me, I loved soaking in the vibe—the blend of spirituality, natural beauty, and vibrant culture that defines Tanah Lot.
Whether you’re a photographer looking to capture the perfect sunset shot, a traveller seeking spiritual enlightenment, or a family wanting to experience Bali’s rich heritage, Tanah Lot Temple offers something for everyone. It’s a place where nature and culture converge, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime. We can’t wait to visit again and immerse ourselves in the magic of Tanah Lot!
nepaliaustralian 