Dashain 2026: Why Do Families Return Home for Tika? Know the Emotional and Cultural Significance

For many Nepali families, Dashain is more than a festival marked by rituals, new clothes and festive meals. It is that time of the year when people living far from home try their best to return to their families, even if it means travelling for hours or taking a break from their busy lives. The most emotional moment often comes during Vijaya Dashami, when elders place Tika and Jamara on the foreheads of younger family members and offer blessings for their future.

In 2026, Dashain celebrations will continue through the festive period in October, with Vijaya Dashami falling on October 21. For Nepali families living in Nepal and abroad, the occasion brings a familiar feeling of home, togetherness and gratitude. But why is returning home for Tika such an important tradition, and what makes this ritual so special across generations?

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Why Do Nepali Families Return Home for Dashain Tika?

Dashain is one of the most significant festivals in Nepali culture. It celebrates the victory of good over evil and is associated with the blessings of Goddess Durga. However, its importance goes beyond religious observance. It is also a time when families reconnect, old relationships are strengthened and younger members seek blessings from their elders.

For many people, returning home for Tika is almost a yearly promise. Those studying in another city, working away from their hometown or living in another country often plan their holidays around Dashain. Bus stations, airports and roads become especially busy as people travel to meet their parents, grandparents and relatives.

What Is the Significance of Tika and Jamara?

During Vijaya Dashami, elders apply Tika, commonly prepared using rice, curd and vermilion, on the foreheads of younger family members. Jamara, the sacred yellow shoots grown during Ghatasthapana, is also placed on the head. The precise customs and blessings can vary among families and communities.

The ritual is accompanied by blessings for good health, happiness, prosperity, success and a long life. Elders may also offer Dakshina, or money, as a symbolic gift. For children, it can be an exciting part of the celebration, while for adults, the ritual often carries a deeper emotional meaning.

Tika is not just a mark on the forehead. It represents love, respect and the blessings of the older generation. In many households, family members visit their parents, grandparents, maternal relatives and other elders to receive Tika throughout the festival.

Why Does Returning Home for Tika Feel So Special?

As people grow older, the meaning of Dashain can change. What once felt like a holiday filled with new clothes, food and gifts may gradually become an opportunity to spend time with parents and grandparents. The familiar rituals, conversations around the dining table and blessings from elders begin to feel more precious.

For some, Dashain is also a reminder of family members who are no longer present or relatives who cannot make the journey home. These emotions are part of what makes the festival deeply personal.

As Nepali families prepare for Dashain 2026, the journey home will once again carry a meaning that goes far beyond distance. Because sometimes, the most meaningful part of the festival is simply sitting beside your loved ones, receiving their blessings and feeling at home.

“Dashain ko dherai dherai subhakamana! Aafno parivaar sanga ramailo garnuhos, tika ra jamara ko aashirwad le sabai ko jeevan khusi ra samriddhi le bharipurna hos.”