Dashain usually brings excitement, family gatherings, and travel back to ancestral homes. But this year feels quieter. Many people who live in Kathmandu have stayed back instead of going to their villages. Political unrest, road problems, and the overall national mood have made the festival less cheerful than before.
To understand how people are spending Dashain, we spoke with a few stock brokers. Their stories reflect how the country’s atmosphere is shaping this festival.
Priyaraj Regmi – Stuck in Kathmandu, hoping for better days
Priyaraj Regmi, who runs Crystal Kanchenjunga Securities, is originally from Gorkha. Normally, he would travel home, but this year, he stayed in Kathmandu because of travel difficulties. For him, Dashain does not feel lively. The protests by the younger generation and the damage caused during unrest have left him worried.
He prays for the country to find a way out of the crisis and for the share market to bring good days after the holidays. He also advises investors to use the free time to study companies before making decisions.
Ishwori Prasad Rimal – A festival that feels like mourning
For Ishwori Prasad Rimal of Nepal Stock House, this Dashain feels heavy. He says the country is in grief after recent losses caused by protests and political changes. He feels there is no festive mood and even the timing of Dashain came too soon while the rainy season is not yet over.
He believes this Dashain is just about keeping tradition alive, not about joy. For investors, he suggests being careful and only choosing strong companies rather than rushing into risky or illegal investments.
Rajkumar Timilsina – A simple Dashain at home
Rajkumar Timilsina of Vision Securities says he too is not celebrating with excitement. But with a finance minister who seems more capable, he carries some hope for the future. This year, he is staying in Kathmandu, enjoying home-cooked meat dishes with family, and calling it a safe celebration.
Bharat Ranabhat – Back to roots in Kaski
Unlike others, Bharat Ranabhat of Kohinoor Securities is spending Dashain in his hometown in Kaski. He has also planned a trip to Pokhara with his family. For him, Dashain is about reconnecting with relatives and old friends.
He recalls how traditions have changed: people once sacrificed goats at home, but now many families in Pokhara prefer Himalayan goats (chyangra). With longer holidays and his brother returning from abroad, his Dashain feels more family-centered. Still, he admits he enjoys Tihar even more than Dashain.
He encourages investors to take a break, spend time with loved ones, and return refreshed for the market.
