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October 10, 2024 By: Gina Leon

Celebrating a Happy Dashain in Australia

Dashain, Nepal’s biggest festival, is more than just a celebration—it’s a time for family, blessings, and cultural heritage. For generations, families have gathered to honour Goddess Durga, seek blessings, and share joyful moments. It’s a festival filled with rituals, traditional foods, and the iconic tika and jamara. But like many traditions, Dashain is evolving.

In today’s world, technology and modern lifestyles have changed how people celebrate. Many families are spread across the globe, and younger generations are blending the old with the new. This shift doesn’t mean losing the essence of the festival. Instead, it’s about finding new ways to say “Happy Dashain” while staying true to its roots.

In this blog, we’ll explore how to combine old customs with modern touches, keeping the spirit of Dashain alive for all. Whether you’re lighting incense in your hometown or joining a virtual tika ceremony miles away, these ideas will help you celebrate a truly Happy Dashain.

People gathered to pay a swing in Dashain Festival, Nepal.
People gathered to pay a swing in Dashain Festival, Nepal.

Keeping Dashain traditions alive in the digital age

The heart of Dashain lies in its rituals—placing tika on foreheads, offering jamara, and chanting prayers to Goddess Durga. These traditions connect families, creating a sense of unity and continuity. But for many, especially those living far from home, keeping these customs alive can be challenging.

Thanks to technology, distance is no longer a barrier. Virtual tika ceremonies have become a lifeline for families spread across continents. Platforms like Zoom, WhatsApp, and Viber are increasingly popular during Dashain, allowing families to join together, even if only on a screen, to wish each other a Happy Dashain. During the 2023 Dashain season, video call usage surged in Nepal as more families used digital tools to stay connected. According to the Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA), around 80% of Nepalis had broadband access, and 70% of the population had 4G coverage, which made video calling more accessible, reporte by The Kathmandu Post.

Using video calls, families can still perform rituals together, keeping the spirit of a Happy Dashain alive no matter where they are. And for those worried about losing touch with traditions, these virtual gatherings ensure that the values of togetherness and reverence remain strong. The rise of video communication during Dashain shows how technology can preserve cultural practices. It’s a testament to the adaptability of Nepalese traditions, ensuring that the warmth of family connections remains unbroken, even in a digital age.

Tika and jamara plate, Dashain Festival, Nepal
Tika and jamara plate, Dashain Festival, Nepal

Dashain delights: mixing traditional dishes with modern flavors

Food is a central part of any Dashain celebration, bringing families together around the table. Classic dishes like khasi ko masu (goat curry), sel roti (rice flour donuts), and aalu ko achar (spicy potato salad) have always been staples of the Dashain feast. However, with changing tastes and dietary preferences, many families are giving these traditional recipes a modern twist.

One way to celebrate a Happy Dashain is by introducing healthier or vegetarian alternatives to beloved dishes. For instance, families might replace goat meat with tofu or paneer, creating a vegetarian curry that retains the rich, spiced flavour of the original. Similarly, whole grain sel roti or baked versions of traditional fried snacks can offer a lighter yet satisfying option during the festival.

This shift in eating habits reflects broader trends in Nepal. As reported by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and Nepal’s Central Bureau of Statistics, vegetarianism has been noticeable among younger Nepalese, particularly those living in urban areas and abroad. Such adaptations keep the culinary traditions of Dashain alive while meeting the evolving preferences of new generations.

The fusion of old and new is more than just a trend—it’s a way for families to connect across generations. A modernised Dashain feast allows elders to pass down the essence of tradition while younger family members add their creative touch. This blend of flavours makes the celebration even richer, allowing everyone to experience a Happy Dashain that respects the past while embracing the future.

Example Recipe: tofu and spinach Khasi Ko Masu

For those looking to try a new twist, here’s a simple adaptation:

-Replace goat meat with tofu and spinach.

-Use the same blend of traditional Nepali spices like cumin, coriander, and chilli.

-Cook with a splash of mustard oil for an authentic flavour.

This kind of adaptation keeps the celebration inclusive for different diets. It honours the spirit of a Happy Dashain, where everyone is welcome at the table. Whether you’re enjoying a classic mutton curry or a new-age tofu dish, what matters most is sharing the meal with loved ones, just like in every Dashain before.

Tofu and Spinach stir-fry
Tofu and Spinach stir-fry

Celebrating Dashain in Australia: Activities and gatherings

For Nepalis living in Australia, celebrating a Happy Dashain means balancing maintaining traditions and embracing their new environment. With a growing Nepali community in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the festival together.

1. Community Dashain events

Many Nepali associations and cultural groups organise Dashain celebrations across major Australian cities. These events often feature traditional music, dance performances, and the iconic tika ceremony. In Sydney, the Nepalese Community NSW and the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) usually host large gatherings where families can come together, share meals, and celebrate with cultural performances. These events are a great way to meet fellow Nepalis and enjoy a Happy Dashain surrounded by a sense of community.

2. Virtual Tika ceremonies with family back home

Virtual celebrations remain a popular option for those unable to attend in-person events. Families can connect through Zoom or WhatsApp to perform tika ceremonies and share blessings across borders. The rise of digital communication has made it easier to include relatives in Nepal and other parts of the world, allowing for a more inclusive and connected Dashain celebration.

3. Cooking and sharing traditional foods

Food is an integral part of Dashain, and many Nepali families in Australia take this opportunity to prepare traditional dishes together. Goat meat, a Dashain staple, can be found in specialised butchers in cities like Melbourne. Families gather to cook khasi ko masu, sel roti, and aalu ko achar, adapting these recipes with locally available ingredients. Organising potlucks with friends allows everyone to enjoy a range of dishes, keeping the spirit of a Happy Dashain alive through shared meals.

4. Kite flying and outdoor games

Kite flying is a cherished tradition during Dashain, symbolising freedom and joy. In Australia, families can visit local parks or open spaces to continue this tradition. Popular spots like Sydney’s Centennial Park or Melbourne’s Albert Park have become gathering places for families to enjoy the crisp spring weather while flying kites. This outdoor activity brings a sense of home and nostalgia to those celebrating Dashain far from Nepal.

5. Visiting temples for blessings

Temples play a significant role in Dashain, and for many Nepalis in Australia, visiting a local Hindu temple is an essential part of the celebration. Temples like the Shree Swaminarayan Mandir in Melbourne or the Shiva Vishnu Temple in Carrum Downs in Victoria offer a space for worship and community gatherings. Many temples also host special prayer sessions and pujas during Dashain, allowing people to come together in a spiritual setting.

6. Sharing the culture with friends

Dashain is a perfect time to introduce Australian friends to Nepali traditions. Many families invite friends for a traditional meal or a small gathering, sharing the stories behind the festival and its significance. This helps foster cultural understanding and gives a taste of what makes Dashain unique. It’s also an opportunity for children growing up in Australia to learn about their heritage and connect with their roots.

 Dashain festival in Nepal
Crowd of Hindu people celebrating the first day of the Dashain festival on the streets of Kathmandu

Sending money back home to Nepal with Rocket Remit

Dashain is a time for family, traditions, and togetherness. For those far from Nepal, the festival can bring deep nostalgia—missing the moments of sharing tika, enjoying traditional meals, and gathering with loved ones. But even if you are away, you can still participate in the celebrations by supporting your family back home.

With Rocket Remit, you can send money to your loved ones in Nepal quickly and securely. Whether helping with the costs of Dashain feasts, contributing to temple visits, or supporting new clothes for the celebration, your remittance can make a real difference. Rocket Remit understands the importance of staying connected during Dashain and ensuring your support reaches home when needed.

This Dashain, let Rocket Remit help you share the joy and blessings with those who matter most. Even if you can’t be there in person, your support can bring smiles and brighten their celebrations.

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