Kathmandu [Nepal], October 17 – Nepal Prime Minister Balendra Shah has called for unity, compassion and prosperity during Dashain while expressing condolences to families affected by recent disasters in the country.
In a Dashain greeting posted on social media on Saturday, Shah described the festival as a celebration of family reunions, affection and respect for elders as well as a tradition that brings Nepalis together across the country and abroad.
He said this year’s celebrations had arrived as grief remained fresh in areas including Rasuwa, Nuwakot and Gorkha which suffered devastating destruction. Shah expressed condolences to bereaved families, prayed for the eternal peace of those killed and wished the injured a speedy recovery.
The prime minister said the government was working to rehabilitate displaced people.
He also highlighted the hardship faced by Nepalis working abroad who cannot return home to celebrate with their families saying collective efforts could help change their circumstances.
Shah said the government remained committed to national prosperity, better livelihoods and good governance adding that economic hardship should not turn Dashain into a burden for anyone.
He urged people to embrace truth, overcome greed, anger, jealousy and arrogance and celebrate the festival with joy and dignity.
Dashain, Nepal’s major Hindu festival is traditionally marked by family gatherings, blessings, tika and jamara and celebrations symbolising the victory of good over evil.
