Dashain Reflections
ALTHOUGH the great Hindu festival of Dashain
began with Ghatasthapana on Wednesday (October 17), the real celebrations begin today.
Meanwhile, after a shopping spree lasting days, most people, especially here in Kathmandu,
are catching the last buses to be with their families, back in whichever village or town
they originally come from. Tradition is hard to break as is evidenced by the "shop
till you drop" syndrome prevalent among the people, both rich and poor, locals and
outsiders. Dashain in times gone by used to be the only occasion during the year when the
poor people had some nice food and a new pair of clothes to wear. Times have changed, and
for many people, they no longer need to wait until the great festival to eat heartily and
wear a fresh pair of clothing. Yet the time-honoured tradition continues. And it is one
reason that makes the occasion so festive. But in the festivity and celebration, one must
not forget that Dashain is observed to mark the victory of good over evil. And that is why
Goddess Durga, who slays the demon Mahisashur, is invoked and worshipped. Dashain,
however, is more than just a festival meant for merry-making. It is a sort of annual
get-together, especially for those who live far away from their homes. Little wonder that
the government sanctions a long leave, lasting nearly a week, to all. On Vijaya Dashami
(Friday), the last day of the 10-day celebration, people go from house to house visiting
elders and receiving tika, a mark of blessing, on their forehead. And in doing so, enmity
and old squabbles are forgotten. Some of the essence of this camaraderie and social
intimacy of Dashain has found its way into the tea parties organised by the various
political parties on this occasion. Dashain is also the time when officials, organisations
and the people exchange greetings, wishing each other happiness and success. Of late, the
kingdom has been facing problems of all hues - economic, political and social. The royal
tragedy on June 1 has left a deep scar on everyone. And the six-year-old Maoist insurgency
has already taken a heavy toll. Let us pray this Dashain will bring all Nepalese together
and end the problems that they have been plagued with. Let it be an occasion that will
bond the Nepalese together in the fight against, not humans, but poverty, disease and
illiteracy.
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