Dasain, symbolizing the victory of Hindu Goddess
Durga over the evils, is the most important festival of the Nepali population in India. It usually falls in the month of Aswina (September-October).
During this fortnight long festival, the elders of the family bless the young with 'tika' and gratuities. Barley seeds are sown in the soil on the first day. The growth of Barley foretells a good harvest. Fulpati, the next important day, is celebrated after a week. Maha Astami, Kala Ratri and Navami follow Fulpati.
Dussehra, the 10th day of the festival, marks the victory of
Lord Ram over
Ravana. People smear their foreheads with colored rice and the barley sprouts, which were sown on the first day of the festival, are picked and place over the ears.
