Dasara2024

 I started keeping Dasara gombe this year after a break of a few years. 

The whole experience of Dasara was blissful from start to end. It started with deciding to do Dasara this year. Then bringing the boxes of dolls down. Then came unpacking every single doll. I was pleased with myself for naming each box with the theme names as it helped in unpacking what I wanted first.Before opening the boxes, my brother and I put together the 2 stands I had. Both were metal stands, one 5 stepper and the other a 3 step stand. This took half a Saturday. Then I had to wash all the white sheets that are used to cover the stands and other make-do tables. Then I had to iron the sheets. Simultaneously I was unpacking the boxes and the dolls. 

I was not sure if I wanted to keep all the dolls for display this year as I had work and it was a hectic time at work and home. I decided to do as much as I could. I first arranged the 5 step stand. Second I arranged the 3 step stand on which were the main dolls of Dasara - Pattada Gombe - signifying Vishnu and Lakshmi.

Once the 2 stands were arranged, it became easy as I did theme wise table arrangements. I used cardboard boxes and various other available things at home as a table or stand for the dolls.

Dasara started from October 3rd this year. I was constantly setting up till October 2nd late night. 

From October 3rd it was a new kind of excitement. The energy was so vibrant at home, one of the main reasons I do Dasara. I used to wake up around 4am, do Pooja and head to work. I had invited close friends and family. So we had people coming home during evenings and weekends.

As part of Dasara, our apartment had a Dandiya night for which we had practice sessions for 2 nights. It was 3 nights of lovely dancing!

Festivals can become reminders to celebrate life - meeting old friends and family, making new friends, coming together as a community, knowing our neighbours, showering love on one another, sharing what we have and starting something new - it can be a wonderful opportunity to forget our lows and soak in joy! I might have done all the above things during Dasara. I am saying this because if I can do it, anyone in the world can also do it. 

Hope you enjoyed our Dasara celebrations

Thanks to everyone who came to our house and made this festival extra special!  

🙏🙏🙏🙏