The Dashain celebration in Nepal this year was a little subdued understandably as it wasn’t long since the nationwide protests where more than 70 people lost their lives. However, it made sense to mark the festival more so by emphasizing its significant messages from the core beliefs of the Nepali communities and the Brigade of Gurkhas.
In his Dashain greetings, Colonel Dan Rex MVO, Commander British Gurkhas Nepal (BGN) said that it was a great honour to be present among the Nepali people as the occasion of Dashain, one of the most important festivals in Nepal was being celebrated in Nepal and across different parts of the world. “Dashain is a time of togetherness, a time when families and communities reunite, when blessings are shared, and when bonds are renewed. At its heart, Dashain is a celebration of the triumph of good over evil, of harmony over discord, and of hope over fear,” he said. Colonel Rex stressed on remembering the strength of family, community, and shared purpose, and urged everyone to work together in friendship and partnership, and look ahead with optimism, guided by the values that this festival teaches.
BGN’s Dashain 2025 rituals were mainly performed by a dedicated ‘Pujari’ (worshippers) team comprising Pandit Mr Jhabindra Gyawali, Warrant Officer Class One (WO1) Mahesh Palungwa, Corporal Suren Buddha Magar and Lance Corporal My Life Raracha Sunuwar, from the first day of Ghatasthapana to the ultimate and main day of Tika.
As one of the most anticipated events of the year, the BGN Dashain Party 25 was held on 30 September reflecting a blend of rituals and entertainment. A reflection of Nepal’s diverse cultures and festivals, the programme was attended by His Excellency Rob Fenn, British Ambassador to Nepal; Mr Chhiribabu Maharjan, Mayor of Lalitpur Metropolitan City and Colonel Dan Rex MVO, Commander BGN as the chief guests, while BGN staff, partners and families were among the audience. The programme saw BGN staff, children and professional artists showcase excellent performances of religious and cultural significance and diversity of Nepal.
The Tihar celebration that followed roughly two weeks later saw the BGN Family and well-wishers gather for the celebration on the day of Laxmi (Goddess of Wealth) Puja. The opening started with a puja performed by Pandit Mr Jhabindra Gyawali. Colonel Dan Rex MVO, Commander BGN then sent warm greetings of the festival to one and all in BGN, Nepal and everyone celebrating the festival. This was followed by a Deusi-Bhailo programme where family members showcased musical performances in return of offerings in the form of money and food made especially during the festivals.
The overall planning and delivery of the Dashain and Tihar 25 celebration was led by Major Kiran Pun MVO (Gurkha Major BGN), Captain Robin Rai (Office Commanding Nepal Signal Troop BGN) and WO1 Mahesh Palungwa, while a huge thanks is due to all participants, and everyone involved in making the celebration a big success.
