Over the weekend of October 19, a group of Nepali Americans came together in Newark Community Park to commemorate Dashain, a festival of Nepal. Nepali Bhasha School and Lions Club of Oakland Feed the Need organized the event. Dashain or Vijaya Dashami is a two-week Hindu festival that Nepalis globally observe to honor the triumph of good over evil, with goddess Durga defeating the demon Mahishasura as its representation. The festival is also celebrated in different names like Vijaya Dashami, Dassehra in India, Bhutan and Bangladesh.
‘It’s like being at a family gathering’
Attendee at Newark Dashain celebration
The occasion showcased an assortment of Nepali dishes. Kids had a blast engaging in games and activities. Many at the event experienced a sense of belonging and connection with their Nepali heritage. “Nepalese parents in America are very dedicated to passing on their rich heritage, culture and language to their children,” said Sunil Rajkarnikar, a Nepali community leader. “They understand the importance of maintaining those connections to their roots, especially in a new and different cultural environment.”
“It’s like being at a family gathering,” said a participant, as they recalled celebrating Dashain in Nepal during their childhood. Others exchanged tales of reuniting with lost friends and schoolmates that they had not crossed paths with for years.
The Dashain festival in Newark highlighted the knit community spirit of Nepalis in the Bay Area as they came together to enjoy food and music while making memories through laughter and celebration.
