2nd October 2025, Kathmandu
Bada Dashain, Nepal’s biggest Hindu festival, is celebrated from Ashwin Shukla Pratipada to Dashami, extending to Kojagrat Purnima. Also known as Dashahara or Vijaya Dashami, this festival is a time for rituals, blessings, and cultural celebrations.
Red Tika Symbolizes Revolution
According to Pandit Uttam Neupane, devotees begin worshiping divine powers from the first day of Ashwin’s bright fortnight, offering prayers to Mother Goddess in various forms such as Durga, Kali, Lakshmi, and Saraswati. On Dashami, people receive Tika and Jamara from elders, which symbolize victory, protection, and familial blessings.
Red Tika: Symbol of Revolution and Victory
Pandit Neupane explains that the red tika represents revolution, energy, and triumph. Historically, the red tika became popular after colored powders (abir) were introduced from India. During Dashain, the red tika stream marks victory over evil and brings joy and enthusiasm to the celebrations.
White Tika: Symbol of Peace and Auspiciousness
White tika, traditionally made from rice mixed with yogurt, symbolizes peace, immortality, and good fortune. It is believed to bring calmness to the mind and harmony to households. Yogurt and rice also represent Lakshmi (prosperity) and divine nourishment, making white tika a sacred element of Dashain rituals.
Dashain Rituals: Phulpati to Vijaya Dashami
Phulpati (Saptami): Worship of Kalaratri, a fierce form of the goddess.
Maha Ashtami: Worship of Maha Kali, Maha Lakshmi, and Maha Saraswati; animal sacrifices are performed in some traditions.
Maha Navami: Reverence of Siddhidatri.
Vijaya Dashami: Elders bless younger family members with Tika, Jamara, and Prasad; swings (ping) and festive meals follow.
Five-Element (Panchatatva) Worship
The five days after Dashami, leading to Kojagrat Purnima, honor the five elements — Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Sky, representing Navadurga. Devotees visit elders’ homes, participate in rituals, and culminate the festival with Lakshmi Puja on Purnima.
Cultural Significance
Dashain is more than a religious festival; it is a symbol of peace, unity, and prosperity. Red tika brings courage and victory, while white tika fosters calmness and spiritual balance. Through rituals, blessings, and communal gatherings, Dashain strengthens Nepali family ties and cultural identity.
For more: Red Tika Symbolizes Revolution