KATHMANDU: Former King Gyanendra Shah has decided not to offer Tika and Jamara to well-wishers during this year’s Dashain festival.
In a message of greetings issued on Sunday on the occasion of Dashain, he stated that the festival will be observed only within the family and in a cultural manner, as the nation is currently in a state of extreme devastation and mourning.
“At present, the nation is in a state of extreme devastation and mourning. Therefore, we are forced to celebrate this festival only in a family and cultural way,” his message read. “We also inform our general well-wishing citizen community that we will not be providing Tika and Jamara on a large scale as in the past.”
His message emphasized that the sacrifices made by Nepal’s ancestors to protect the unity, integrity, and sovereignty of the nation form the backbone of its existence, self-respect, and glorious culture.
“On this basis, Nepal has always stood as an independent and self-respecting nation. It is necessary to rebuild an integrated Nepal with the ability to chart its own course without getting caught up in any dependency or geopolitical cycle.”
He stated that the hopes, aspirations, and desires of the people have been the foundation of Nepal’s progressive development.
“It is necessary to move forward by making timely improvements in our state system and adopting dynamic management practices, keeping in mind the sentiments of the people,” he added.
“For some time now, we have been putting forward deep concerns, interests, and a balanced approach for the best interests of the country and the people. Our state management must include the aspirations and desires of the new generation.”
He also emphasized the need to embrace evolving modern technology and scientific efficiency. While pushing for physical development, he said, Nepal should acknowledge the changing structure of national society in line with global trends.
“While making all such efforts according to the era and time, we must take care of our identity and values,” his message further stated.
“The young generation is the foundation of our future. Only the patriotic spirit, energy, and innovative thinking inherent in them can lead the nation on the path toward strength, prosperity, and self-reliance. Let us look at our faces in the mirror of our country. Our political actions have too often focused on destruction. Now, our programs should move not toward destruction, but toward improvement.”
He stressed the importance of cultivating a national mindset grounded in truth, respect for elders, dignity, discipline, and love for the nation.
“Whatever happened, happened. Whatever was not meant to happen, happened. May the new generation of today—and the new times ahead—move forward with hope, faith, and trust,” the message concluded.
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