Based on the religion, the biggest festival of Dashain, a celebration of Goddess Durga’s victory over evil Mahisashur, has symbolic meaning deeply rooted in Nepalese society. Dashain is the longest (15-day-long) and the most auspicious festival in Nepal. Dashain festival falls in September or October, starting from the Shukla Paksha (bright lunar fortnight) of the month of Ashwin and ending on the full moon day (Purnima).
Among the 15 days (Ghatasthapan to Purnima) for which it is celebrated, the most important days are the first (ghatasthapana), seventh (Saptami), eighth (Maha-Astami), ninth (Nawami) and the tenth (Vijaya Dasami/Tika), but tenth day is very important all over the country Shakti is worshiped in all her manifestations. Dashain festival is also known for its importance on the family gatherings, as well as on a renewal of community relations and links. People return from all parts of the world and country to celebrate together. During the festival all government offices, educational institutions and other private offices remain closed in holidays duration.
