Dasain

Dasain

Dashain (Nepali: दशैं) or Badadashain (Nepali: बडादशैं) or Vijaya Dashami is the 15 days long national (religious) festival of Nepal, It is the longest and the most auspicious festival in the Nepalese annual calendar, celebrated by Nepalese people of all castes throughout the globe. It is not only the longest festival of the country but is also the one which is most anticipated. The festival falls around September–October, starting from the bright lunar fortnight and ending on the day of full moon. Although the festival is being celebrated for 15 day, the most important days are the 1st, 7th, 8th, 9th and the 10th day. The fifteen days of celebration occurs during the bright lunar fortnight ending on the day of the full moon. Dasain is also popularly referred to as Badadashain, Dashera, Vijaya Dashami etc. It is also referred to as Durga Puja,.

Throughout the country the goddess Durga in all her manifestations is worshiped with innumerable pujas, abundant offerings and thousands of animal sacrifices for the ritual of holy bathing, drenching the goddess for days in blood. This festival is also known for its emphasis on the family gatherings, as well as on a renewal of community ties. People return from all parts of the world, as well as different parts of the country, to celebrate together. All government offices, educational institutions and other offices remain closed during the festival period.