Second generation enjoying Dashain festivities, Tika and Jamara across Australia
SYDNEY:- The festive spirit of Vijaya Dashami—a major festival for the Nepali people—has spread across Australia. Nepalis residing in various states and territories are celebrating Dashain with great joy, coming together with their families, applying ‘Tika and Jamara’, and receiving blessings from their elders.
With the arrival of the auspicious time for Vijaya Dashami, the tradition of applying ‘Tika’ and ‘Jamara’ began in households early this morning. A festive atmosphere prevails in homes as family members and relatives—who were unable to gather throughout the year due to work, studies, or busy daily routines—have come together for Dashain. Receiving the red ‘Tika’ and yellow ‘Jamara’ from elders, family members have exchanged wishes for happiness, peace, prosperity, good health, and success.
During this year’s Dashain, the enthusiasm and participation of the second generation of Nepalis—those born and raised in Australia—have particularly captured everyone’s attention. The sight of children and young people, dressed in traditional Nepali attire, receiving ‘Tika and Jamara’ , enjoying time with their families, and seeking blessings, reflects the continuity of Nepali culture even while living abroad.
For children growing up on foreign soil, Dashain is not merely an occasion for fun and family reunions; it has also become a vital medium for them to become acquainted with their language, culture, customs, and ancestral traditions. Parents and elders also view this festival as an opportunity to teach the younger generation about the significance of Dashain, the value of family bonds, and the tradition of bestowing blessings.
The Nepali community living in various cities across Australia is celebrating Dashain in accordance with their respective family traditions and personal circumstances. In some places, people are gathering at the homes of the eldest family members to receive *tika* and blessings, while in others, they are meeting with relatives and friends to share the joy of the festival.
Even though they are thousands of kilometers away from Nepal, Dashain keeps Nepalis connected to their homeland, their families, and their culture. The deep bond with family, respect for elders, and the tradition of passing on cultural values to the new generation make the celebration of Dashain abroad all the more meaningful.
The smiles of children adorned with ‘Tika and Jamara’ , the warmth shared among family members, and the enthusiasm for Nepali traditions have brought a unique vibrancy to Dashain in Australia. These scenes convey the message that Nepali culture is being passed down through generations, extending well beyond geographical boundaries.
