At Restaurant Gurkha, we are proud to share not just the flavours of Nepal, but also the stories and traditions that shape our culture. One of the most cherished festivals in Nepal is ‘Vijaya Dashami’, also known simply as ‘Dashain’.
Cultural Significance
Vijaya Dashami is the grand finale of the 15-day Dashain festival, celebrated across Nepal with great joy. The word Vijaya means victory and Dashami means the tenth day. It symbolizes the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness, and righteousness over wrongdoing.
Families reunite, distant relatives come home, and communities celebrate together. It is a time of joy, forgiveness, and new beginnings – values deeply woven into Nepali society.
Religious Importance
Dashain honours the goddess Durga, who defeated the demon Mahishasura after a fierce nine-day battle. Each day leading up to Dashami represents a chapter of this divine struggle, with the tenth day marking the ultimate victory of virtue.
On Vijaya Dashami, elders bless younger family members with tika (a mixture of rice, yogurt, and red vermilion) placed on the forehead, along with jamara (green barley shoots) as a symbol of prosperity and good fortune. These blessings are accompanied by heartfelt words of protection and well-being.
Social Importance
The spirit of Dashain is about unity and renewal. Families mend relationships, neighbours exchange gifts, and communities gather for feasts. Children receive blessings along with dakshina (money), and laughter fills every home.
The festival is also closely tied to the agricultural cycle – it falls after the harvest, when households are abundant with fresh produce, and people can celebrate the fruits of their hard work.
How Nepalis Celebrate Vijaya Dashami
Tika & Jamara: Elders apply tika and jamara to younger members while chanting blessings.
Family Gatherings: People travel long distances to be with their loved ones.
Feasting: Traditional dishes like goat curry, sel roti, beaten rice, and homemade delicacies are enjoyed.
Kites & Swings: Children celebrate with bamboo swings (*ping*) and colourful kites filling the autumn skies.
Celebrating Together at Restaurant Gurkha
For us at Restaurant Gurkha, Vijaya Dashami is not just a festival but a reminder of the values we hold dear — family, community, and gratitude. Though far from Nepal, we carry the spirit of Dashain in our hearts and celebrate it with our extended family here in Finland – our guests.
We wish everyone a joyous Vijaya Dashami filled with blessings, prosperity, and togetherness.
शुभविजयादशमी ! Happy Vijaya Dashami !
