As we extend best wishes to our readers we are also aware that Dashain no longer enjoys the near-universal acceptance among Nepalis as it once used to. Some ethnic groups have argued that Dashain celebration began as a victory of the Aryan race over the Mongolian race in this part of the subcontinent, while others have even claimed that the red tika that Hindus put on the 10th day of Dashain actually symbolizes that victory. But, then, those who believe in the sanctity of Dashain argue that it´s a celebration of victory of truth over falsehood. Since there are competing myths about Dashain, it´s quite difficult to establish its origin and the reason behind its celebration. And these myths have not only created divisions along the ethnic and cultural fault lines, but they have also divided various families within certain ethnic groups based on those who celebrate Dashain and those who boycott it.
These controversies notwithstanding, Dashain is still the most widely celebrated festival in Nepal. And more than a religious event it´s celebrated as a cultural ceremony-- an opportunity for family get-together; an occasion to shed stress of mundane life through recreational activities. For many Nepalis, who live in absolute poverty, Dashain is sometimes one rare occasion for good meal and new clothes. Alas! Not every Nepali can afford to buy such clothes on this day even if they wish to, nor can they manage a meal they want to eat. That´s sad and it should serve as a reminder for those who spent extravagantly during Dashain, sometimes by borrowing money from others.
Though the political parties had earlier said that they would sit for negotiations to break the stalemate only after Dashain, some leaders have expedited consultations in the last two days. If the consultation gains momentum, there will be a lot more meetings before the offices reopen after the Dashain holidays. We hope and wish that the leaders will reach a breakthrough and come out with a joint political course ahead, for any political derailment will only add hardship to peoples´ lives and can threaten the future of this newest republic.
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