Kathmandu:The tradition of receiving tika, jamara, and blessings from elders continued across the country as families gathered to observe the rituals associated with Dashain, a major festival. Tika, comprised of red vermilion, rice grains, and yoghurt, is applied on the forehead as a blessing, while jamara, the yellow shoots of barley or maize, symbolizes prosperity and good fortune.
According to National News Agency RSS, the tradition that began on Bijaya Dashami, the main day of the 10-day Dashain festival observed on October 21 this year, involves worship dedicated to Goddess Durga. This ritual continues until Kojagrat Purnima, the full-moon day marking the end of the festival period.
People traditionally visit their parents, elders, and relatives to receive tika, jamara, and blessings. However, in some districts in the western part of the country, this tradition is limited to the day of Bijaya Dashami. Associate Professor Dr. Purushottam Bhattarai, Chairperson of the Nepal Calendar Determination Development Committee, stated that there are no religious restrictions on receiving tika and jamara until the completion of Kojagrat Purnima.
In Kathmandu, the activity increased from Friday morning after several quiet days. Despite the rise in public activity, fewer vehicles were on the roads, making travel less convenient than expected. Markets were busier, and public vehicles carried more passengers visiting relatives and elders to receive tika, jamara, and blessings. The tradition will continue until Sunday, October 25.