Despite rain, tika and jamara offerings continue across the country

Kathmandu: Despite continuous rainfall since Friday evening, the tradition of receiving the Prasad of Nava Durga from relatives has continued across the country.

The process of offering Tika and Jamara as Prasad of Nava Durga, which began on the day of Vijayadashami, will continue until Akhil Bali Purnima, observed on Kojagrat Purnima.

According to the Nepal Panchanga Nirnaya Bikas Samiti, Kojagrat Purnima falls on Monday, Asoj 20, this year. Nepalis celebrate the 15-day Dashain festival with great enthusiasm from Ashwin Shukla Pratipada to Ashwin Shukla Purnima.

Dashain begins on Ashwin Shukla Pratipada with the abhishekam of the ghada (sacred vessel) installed in homes or worship rooms according to Vedic rituals. The offering of Tika and Jamara starts only after the immersion of the goddess on the morning of Vijayadashami.

Many people continue to visit relatives to exchange Tika and blessings until Kojagrat Purnima, especially those whose close family members are away for work or travel. Vijayadashami is believed to symbolize the triumph of truth over falsehood.

However, this year, continuous rainfall since Friday evening, Asoj 17—the day after Vijayadashami—has disrupted travel plans for many who journey to receive blessings from distant relatives. In view of the heavy rainfall, the government has declared public holidays on Sunday and Monday and imposed a temporary ban on vehicles entering and leaving the capital.