Dashain, the cherished Hindu festival, holds a special place in the hearts of Nepali people, symbolizing the connection to our homeland and culture. This year, we celebrated Dashain in the Philippines, transforming our surroundings into a vibrant place of tradition and togetherness. We gathered at Kathmandu Thakali Kitchen in Manila, where the spirit of Dashain flourished, alongside the Lawmaker of Nepal, Hon. Ek Nath Dhakal, his family, the Consul of Nepal to the Philippines, Dr. Jose Campos, together with our close friends and loved ones. Our celebration transcended religious boundaries, uniting friends and family from diverse backgrounds—Christians, Muslims, and Hindus—coming together to honor the values of community, love, and respect. This festival served as a reminder that culture can be a bridge that unites us, regardless of our differences.

The beginning of our celebration was the message by Hon. Ek Nath Dhakal, who is also the father of this writer. He beautifully articulated that Dashain is more than just religion; it represents the victory of goodness over evil. As he put on a tika to each guest that was present , he emphasized that this blessing symbolizes good fortune and a wish for a happy and healthy long life. The atmosphere was filled with laughter as we shared stories and danced, creating a space rich with joy. The air was infused with the delightful aroma of beloved Nepali dishes—momo, spicy piro aloo, and the traditional Thakali set, perfectly complemented by the soothing taste of masala chai. To finish our meal, we enjoyed a refreshing fruit salad for dessert.

Witnessing the enthusiasm of our Filipino friends and loved ones was particularly heartwarming. Many took to social media to share their experiences, expressing newfound appreciation for our customs and traditions. It was inspiring to see them embrace the Dashain spirit, showcasing how cultural exchange can enrich our lives and foster understanding. This year’s Dashain was not just a tribute to our heritage; it was a celebration of community, inclusivity, and joy. It illustrated that no matter where we find ourselves in the world, we can carry our culture with us and share it with those we love.

As we celebrated together, we created lasting memories, forging connections that transcend borders and strengthen our bonds. We could see how much each guest enjoyed the celebration, especially the food, which doubled their enjoyment. It was rich in culture and equally rich in delicious dishes. Their appreciation for Nepal grew as they savored the vibrant flavors of the Nepali cuisine. This Dashain in the Philippines reminded us that the spirit of celebration knows no boundaries. Together, we can cultivate a world where diversity is celebrated, and every culture has a place. Dashain is no longer just a festival for Nepalis in Nepal; it has become a global celebration, cherished by all who hold Nepali culture in their hearts. This festival is a perfect opportunity to introduce our rich culture to people throughout the globe. We wish everyone, whether Nepali by blood or by heart, a heartfelt Vijaya Dashami.