By Ashish Kumar Mandal, Kathmandu, Nepal
Prime Minister Balendra Shah has extended warm wishes for happiness, peace, good health and prosperity to all Nepalis at home and abroad on the occasion of Bada Dashain 2083. Addressing the Nepali people through social media, Prime Minister Shah expressed hope that Dashain would bring celebration, joy and a sense of togetherness to every Nepali household.
In his message delivered on the occasion of Phulpati, Prime Minister Shah described Bada Dashain as an important religious, social and cultural festival in Nepali society. He said the tradition of receiving tika and jamara and blessings from elders while showing love and respect to younger family members reflects the family bonds, respect and harmony deeply rooted in Nepali society. He noted that the tradition of Nepalis returning home from different parts of the country and from abroad during Dashain to meet family members and relatives and share happiness makes the festival even more special.
Dashain is not only Nepal’s major festival but also an important period for economic activity. According to Prime Minister Shah’s message, the festival brings a unique sense of excitement and joy to everyone, from children to senior citizens. He expressed hope that festivals such as Dashain would further strengthen family relationships, social harmony and mutual bonds among people.
Prime Minister Shah recalled that Nepalis have continued to celebrate their festivals while preserving their religious, cultural and social traditions even during difficult circumstances, including devastating earthquakes, the COVID-19 pandemic and periods of social tension. Noting that Dashain has arrived this year while grief continues over the devastating incidents in areas including Rasuwa, Nuwakot and Gorkha, he paid tribute to those who lost their lives and wished the injured a speedy recovery. He also expressed deep condolences to the bereaved families and informed that the government is working with urgency toward the rehabilitation and resettlement of displaced citizens.
Dashain also symbolizes the victory of truth over falsehood and divine forces over evil. Emphasizing this message, Prime Minister Shah called on everyone to move forward on the path of truth and work toward eliminating negative tendencies from society. He said every individual should be able to recognize and overcome the Mahishasura and Ravana within themselves. He also wished that people would be able to overcome desire, anger, greed, jealousy and arrogance—among the major causes of human suffering.
Prime Minister Shah expressed concern over the situation in which millions of Nepalis are compelled to leave the country for employment and economic reasons, even during festivals. His message highlighted the painful reality of Nepalis who wish to return home to celebrate Dashain with their families but are forced to remain abroad. He expressed confidence that changing this situation is possible through collective efforts and assured that the government remains committed to national prosperity and improving the livelihoods of ordinary citizens.
Stating that economic prosperity adds greater joy and vibrancy to festivals, Prime Minister Shah said Dashain should never become a burden for anyone because of financial hardship. He said the government is continuously working to advance the country toward economic prosperity and good governance.
Concluding his message, Prime Minister Shah expressed the hope that the blessings and divine inspiration of Goddess Durga Bhavani would guide everyone toward truth and good governance. He extended heartfelt Dashain wishes to all Nepalis for good health, happiness, peace and prosperity, and called on everyone to celebrate Dashain in a dignified and grand manner.
He concluded with the message: “May Goddess Durga Bhavani protect us all. Victory to everyone.”
प्रतिक्रिया