Kathmandu- King Gyanendra Shah announced that he will not conduct a public Tika ceremony during this year’s Dashain festival. He said the country is grieving the loss of lives during the recent Gen-Z protests and the atmosphere remains sensitive, so he decided not to hold the annual public event.

In his Dashain message, Shah emphasized values such as truth, respect for elders, discipline, and love for the nation. He said, “The nation is in deep sorrow and destruction at this moment, so we are compelled to celebrate the festival only in a family and cultural way. Unlike previous years, we will not be offering large-scale Tika and Jamara to the public. May Goddess Navadurga guide us towards the right path.”

He stressed that Nepal has always stood as an independent and proud nation, built on the unity, integrity, and sacrifices of ancestors. “On this occasion of Vijaya Dashami, we extend our best wishes for peace, prosperity, and happiness to all Nepalese at home and abroad,” Shah said.

Reflecting on the nation’s challenges, he urged everyone to focus on rebuilding rather than destruction. “Our state system must adapt to changing times while keeping national values and identity intact. The aspirations of the younger generation should be addressed, and we must embrace modern science and technology to ensure development. The youth are the foundation of our future, and their energy, patriotism, and new ideas will make Nepal strong, prosperous, and self-reliant,” he added.