Get together, merry making, blessings and enjoyment is what Dashain is all about. But the way we celebrate Dashain or the anticipation we have with the arrival of this festival changes as we age — for many Dashain during their childhood is not the same today. And some celebrities recall their Dashain when they were children, while sharing with The Himalayan Times the changes they have seen over the years

Childhood memories

As a child dakshina and new clothes were the most important things for me during Dashain. I used to remove tika from my forehead if I got less dakshina than expected. I had to buy new clothes, one month before Dashain. I would keep them in the cupboard and show them to my friends. We were five siblings, and my parents would not let all of us to go to our maternal uncle’s home together — we had to take turns. I used to cry a lot when I could not go to Mamaghar during Dashain.

Changes felt

Time has taught me that Dashain is about getting blessings from elders and spending time together. I can go to Mamaghar every Dashain in my own vehicle, I don’t have to go in public vehicles. But I feel more responsible towards my family these days; I am proud and lucky to be the one who can take responsibilities in the family.

Best thing today

This Dashain is going to be amazing as my younger brother is getting married and I have also become a director from an actor. I am excited to go to Biratnagar to celebrate Dashain as well as the success of the movie Chhakka Panja.

— Deepa Shree Niraula, Director / Actress

Childhood memories

Most people would return to their homes from the Capital during this festival. I too would wish to travel on a night bus with 2x2 folding seat and go to the village to celebrate Dashain. But I lived in Kathmandu as a child and all my family members lived here. So, we need not go outside the Valley for Dashain celebration. I used to feel sad then. However, I used to go to Kalanki and Gaushala to see off my friends, who would be returning home. I also used to play swings. And the empty roads of Kathmandu during the festival used to make me fell emotional.

Dashain celebration used to be like today, but there would be no sacrificing of animals in my home.

Changes felt

The excitement regarding the celebrations isn’t the same. It was difficult to celebrate Dashain then as we had to depend upon the income of only one family member. We are economically stable now, though the celebrations don’t seem to be the same.

Best thing today

The best thing these days is that we get a long break from work. Though I am a freelancer and not engaged in any company, I feel happy as I can remain free in this festive time.

— Subin Bhattarai, Writer