Dashain, the most significant and widely celebrated Hindu festival, holds a special place in the hearts of millions worldwide. Rooted in Hindu scriptures, this festival spans 15 days and is a vibrant mixture of rituals, worship, and festivities.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the rationale behind the celebration of Dashain, its duration, the importance of each day, and any major variations observed in its celebration.
The Mythological Genesis:
Dashain, also known as Vijaya Dashami, commemorates the victory of the goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura. According to Hindu mythology, Mahishasura, a formidable buffalo demon, was wreaking havoc in the celestial realms, defeating the gods and threatening the universe’s balance. Unable to bear his tyranny, the gods created Goddess Durga, a powerful manifestation of divine feminine energy, to defeat Mahishasura. The epic battle lasted nine days and nights, culminating in the goddess’s victory on the tenth day, celebrated as Vijaya Dashami.
The Significance of 15 Days:
Dashain is a 15-day festival that begins on the bright lunar fortnight of the Hindu month of Ashwin and concludes on the day of Vijaya Dashami.
Each day of Dashain holds unique significance and is marked by specific rituals and activities.
- Day 1-6: Ghatasthapana and Phulpati: The festival starts with Ghatasthapana, the ritualistic installation of a sacred water-filled vessel symbolizing the goddess. On the seventh day, Phulpati involves bringing flowers and plantain stalks to the household.
- Day 7: Fulpati, the seventh day of Dashain, involves the ceremonial bringing of flowers, plantain stalks, and holy offerings to homes, marking the grand entry of Goddess Durga’s divine energy into the household.
- Day 8: Maha Asthami: This day marks the worship of Goddess Durga and is accompanied by a series of rituals and prayers. Animal sacrifices are traditionally made on Maha Asthami, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
- Day 9: Maha Navami: Prayers are offered to the goddess to seek her blessings on this day. In some regions, young girls are worshipped as living goddesses, symbolizing the divine feminine energy.
- Day 10: Vijaya Dashami: The culmination of Dashain, Vijaya Dashami, is the day when elders apply ‘tika’ (a mixture of yogurt, rice, and vermilion) and ‘jamara’ (barley sprouts) to the foreheads of younger family members, symbolizing blessings for success, prosperity, and happiness.
- Day 10-15: Tika and Jamara: The last six days of Dashain are also known as the ‘tika and jamara’ period. Families and communities come together for celebrations, feasts, and the exchange of blessings.
Major Variations in Dashain Celebrations:
While Dashain’s essence remains consistent, regional variations exist in how it is celebrated across different communities and countries.
- Nepal: Dashain is a national holiday in Nepal, and the entire country comes to a standstill as families reunite for the festivities. Animal sacrifices are prevalent, especially on Maha Asthami.
- India: In parts of India, Dashain is celebrated with enthusiasm, especially in states like West Bengal, Assam, and Odisha. The festival is known as Durga Puja in these regions, and elaborate pandals (temporary structures) are constructed to house statues of the goddess.
- Bhutan: Dashain is celebrated in Bhutan, with families coming together for religious ceremonies and feasts. The emphasis is on prayers and seeking blessings for the well-being of loved ones.
- Global Nepali Diaspora: The Nepali diaspora worldwide also celebrates Dashain enthusiastically. Communities in the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and other countries organize cultural events, prayers, and feasts to mark the occasion.
Conclusion:
Dashain, with its rich mythological roots and diverse celebrations, is a testament to the cultural and religious diversity within the Hindu community. The festival honors the victory of good over evil and serves as a time for family, community, and reflection on one’s spiritual journey.
As Hindus worldwide come together to celebrate Dashain, the festival becomes a vibrant thread weaving people from different backgrounds into the beautiful fabric of shared traditions and values.