By Tilak B. Shrestha, Ph.D.
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Huntsville, Alabama
DASAIN FESTIVAL
We Nepalese have many festivals to enjoy. Among them ‘Dasain’ is the biggest and the most important festival. It is also called ‘Dashahara’ and ‘Mohani.’ The festival is about honoring and worshipping Mother Goddess of Protection, known with many names like: Durga, Bhavani or Bhagawati. She is shown riding a tiger, a symbol of fearlessness and strength. Children get new clothes, good food, blessings and gifts from seniors. Houses and weapons are cleaned. People travel back to their homes and villages, swing in the bamboo ‘pings’ and fly kites. There is festivity all around for two weeks.
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TIHAR FESTIVAL
We Nepalese have many festivals to enjoy. ‘Tihar’ is one of the biggest and enjoyable festivals. It is also called ‘Swonti’, ‘Deepawali’, ‘Deewali’ or the Festival of Light. The festival is mainly about honoring and worshipping Mother Lakshmi, Goddess of Sustenance, Prosperity, Good fortune and Spirituality. The festival is also associated with other celebrations including ‘Mha puja – self celebration’ and ‘Celebrating brothers.’ Mother Goddess Lakshmi is shown sitting on the Lotus flower, a symbol of purity, happiness and prosperity. Lotus flowers grow out of mud, yet remain pure and beautiful. Children get all kinds of sweets, fruits and blessings from seniors. Houses are cleaned and in the evening candles \ diyo \ pala are lit in windows and doors. Houses, neighborhoods and villages all are bright with lights to welcome Mother Goddess Lakhsmi. The season is mild, harvest is just in, and people are in jovial mood.
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