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Dashain is the most significant festival in Nepal, celebrated with family gatherings, laughter, and of course, food. The dining table becomes the heart of the celebration, bringing everyone together to share, laugh, and enjoy meals that reflect love and unity. While meat dishes like goat curry and sukuti are often seen as staples during Dashain, I believe this festival should be just as delightful for vegetarians. After all, food is about inclusion, and when we cook for loved ones, we should ensure everyone feels welcome at the table.

I believe it’s important to reimagine the Dashain menu to cater to those who prefer plant-based meals. Why not celebrate the spirit of togetherness with a vegetarian feast that’s just as flavorful, joyful, and satisfying as any meat-based spread?

Reimagining vegetarian samay baji

If you were to be my guest this Dashain, I would serve you a vegetarian version of ‘samay baji’, a Newari platter traditionally filled with meat but now designed to cater to vegetarian tastes. Each element of this dish would represent the diversity and richness of Nepal’s culinary heritage, made with local, seasonal ingredients. Every bite would reflect the colors and flavors of Dashain, honoring both tradition and innovation.

Chiura (Beaten rice): Light and crispy, this staple pairs perfectly with every other dish, providing a crunchy base for the flavorful elements on the plate.

Bhatmas (fried black soybeans): Crispy and nutty, these black soybeans add texture and balance, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite.

Wa/Bara (lentil pancakes): Rich in protein, these soft lentil pancakes nod to tradition while ensuring the dish remains hearty and fulfilling.

Soybean or mushroom choyela: Typically, a meat-based dish, choyela in this vegetarian version uses smoky grilled soybeans or mushrooms, seasoned with Nepali spices.

Palu (finely cut ginger): This burst of freshness ties the whole plate together, balancing the richness of the other dishes.

Tofu chili: In place of the traditional boiled egg, this spicy stir-fried tofu brings a bold flavor to the plate, adding a dash of heat that’s perfect for the festive meal.

Vegetable pakora: Crispy on the outside, tender inside, these vegetable fritters are a nostalgic touch, reminiscent of fried fish from Malekhu but in a vegetarian form.

Aalu sadeko (spicy potato salad): This tangy, spicy potato salad is full of the addictive, fiery flavors that Dashain meals are known for.

Greens (saag): Whether sautéed spinach or mustard greens, no Nepali meal is complete without greens. They add a colorful, healthy touch to the feast.

Achar (pickles): No Dashain platter is complete without pickles. My version would feature radish, carrot, and lapsi berry, creating a tangy, spicy accompaniment. I’d also include chukauni, a creamy yogurt-based potato pickle from western Nepal, adding a regional twist.

Aila (Newari wine): A small shot of aila would complete the experience, pairing beautifully with the earthy flavors of the vegetarian samay baji.

This vegetarian samay baji is a celebration on a plate, where each element is thoughtfully crafted to honor tradition while offering something new and exciting.

Vegetarian options

Dashain is a festival of abundance, and for me, the essence of this celebration lies in the togetherness it brings—not in the sacrifice of animals. Nepal has a long history of vegetarian cuisine, and this Dashain, I want to showcase how these dishes can stand proudly alongside traditional meat offerings. Here are some of my favorite vegetarian delicacies that are perfect for the festival.

Soybean chili: A spicy, tangy dish where soybeans are the star, offering a bold depth of flavor that’s both exciting and familiar.

Paneer masala: Paneer cooked in a rich, spiced tomato sauce brings a sense of indulgence and comfort to the table.

Aalu cauli (potato and cauliflower curry): This hearty, flavorful dish is packed with Nepali spices, making it the perfect accompaniment to the festive spread.

Mushroom choyela: A vegetarian twist on the traditional grilled meat dish, this version uses marinated mushrooms, offering the smoky flavor that Dashain feasts are known for.

Soy keema kerau masala: My signature dish for Dashain 2024, this soy mince cooked with peas in a spicy gravy provides the perfect vegetarian alternative to keema, giving that famous ‘piro’ (spicy) kick.

Each of these dishes tells a story of family, culture, and love—the essence of what Dashain is all about. Cooking for the people you care about is an act of love, and the joy that comes from creating these meals is shared by all who gather around the table. The heart and soul you put into the kitchen translate into the joy felt at the dining table, making each meal unforgettable.

Celebrating with vibrant vegetarian dishes

This Dashain, I invite you to celebrate with dishes that are as colorful and festive as the kites we once flew on our childhood rooftops. Plates filled with spicy, tangy, and flavorful vegetarian dishes can ensure that this festival will be one to remember. A feast that brings people together, full of flavors that will have your family talking for the rest of the year—a true celebration of tradition, love, and unity.

With this approach, Dashain becomes a time to honor the rich variety of Nepali cuisine, ensuring that everyone at the table, vegetarian or not, feels included and celebrated.

The author is UK-based R&D chef

In legal parlance, a ‘clean chit’ means the absolution of a person or entity from accusations or charges. It signifies that no proof of misconduct was discovered during the inquiry or trial, and the accused is officially exonerated of all allegations. A ‘clean chit’ refers to a result of any of the judicial process’s phases, such as an inquiry, trial, or appeal. This is a more thorough examination of its importance, process and ramifications. Although it’s a common word in the media, ‘clean chit’ has significant legal implications. In general, it alludes to the subsequent. 

Exoneration: A court or investigating body has officially ruled that the accused is innocent of all charges. This may occur at several points during the legal procedure. 

Absence of evidence: When authorities cannot gather enough evidence to prosecute someone, they frequently give them a clean sheet. 

Finality: If a person receives a clean sheet, it implies that, barring new information, no court cases pertaining to those accusations will be brought against them. 

What leads to a clean chit?

Stage of investigation: When law enforcement looks into a crime, if they find no solid evidence against the accused, they may give a clean chit. For instance, in police investigations or inquiries conducted by organizations such as the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in India, the subject or entity is handed a clean sheet if the report finds no evidence of misconduct. A ‘closure report’ or ‘final report’, suggesting that no charges be made, is prepared in such circumstances by the investigating officer.

Trial stage: In a court trial, the judge may dismiss the case, thus giving the accused a clean sheet, if the prosecution is unable to provide sufficient evidence against the accused. A court's acquittal also acts as a clean sheet, absolving the defendant of the allegations they were facing.

Appeal stage: An individual may occasionally be found not guilty at the appeal level, even if a lower court finds them guilty. An appeal court is said to have given someone a clean slate if it reverses a conviction and absolves them of all charges.

Implications

Legal status: The accused is regarded as innocent by the law, which is the most important and immediate consequence of a clean chit. Unless new evidence is revealed, they are not subject to penalty or additional prosecution on the same matter. 

Public perception and reputation: Even when an accused person is found not guilty by a court of law, they may still be subject to public mistrust. In high-profile situations, the person’s reputation may continue to be damaged by media coverage, which might result in persistent social or professional difficulties. 

Options for the accused: If an individual has been unjustly accused, s/he may pursue legal action for defamation or malicious prosecution. A clean record alone, meanwhile, does not always equate to payment or validation until further legal action is taken. 

Reopening of cases: In some circumstances, the authorities may decide to reopen an investigation if new information or evidence comes to light, particularly if there is pressure from the public or political arena. Legal inquiry does not always conclude with a clean sheet, especially in intricate or delicate matters.

Controversies galore

Perceived misuse: Clean chits have occasionally caused controversy, particularly when claims of partiality, corruption or political meddling are made. The public or media may claim that a clean sheet was granted in order to protect powerful people or organizations from legal action.

Appeal and review procedures: Although a clean record may end a prosecution path, there are procedures in place that permit case reviews, especially in situations where there is a suspicion of injustice. For instance, in India, a clean chit might be contested through public interest litigations (PILs) or appeals, particularly if there are concerns regarding the impartiality or completeness of the inquiry.

Clean chit in specific jurisdictions

India: The phrase ‘clean chit’ has been widely linked to prominent political and corruption scandals in India. Investigative agencies, including the CBI, Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the judiciary, at different levels are frequently involved in the process. 

High-profile cases: A number of prominent Indians, including politicians and businessmen, have gotten off lightly in criminal prosecutions, igniting discussions about the function and objectivity of investigative organizations. Problems with public trust: Because politically sensitive cases sometimes entail claims of improper influence over the investigation or court process, clean chits can occasionally breed public suspicion.

United States: The idea of a ‘clean chit’ in the United States is better understood in terms of an acquittal or charge dismissal. If there is insufficient evidence to support a prosecution, investigations carried out by the FBI or other law enforcement organizations may result in the accused being exonerated. 

Acquittal: In the United States, an acquittal by a jury or judge essentially acts as a clean slate, meaning that the accused is formally found not guilty of the accusations. 

Based on an inquiry, prosecutors are free to decide whether to press charges or not. If they choose not to, it may be interpreted as a kind of clean chit.

In the legal system, a clean sheet is an essential safeguard against unfounded allegations and against investigations or trials coming to an end due to a lack of adequate evidence. It does, however, also present issues with regard to public opinion, possible abuse and the requirement for judicial system openness. Even after legal culpability is removed, the effects on reputation and further scrutiny can occasionally persist, particularly when sensitive or public issues are involved.

Case 1

A year ago, Binu Thapa collapsed in the middle of the road. Living with cerebral palsy (CP), she struggles to control her body. In the past, she had always been thankful for the kindness of strangers who helped her during such moments. However, on this particular day, she was filled with anxiety when two boys rushed to her aid, their hands gripping her chest, making her deeply uncomfortable.

Case 2

Krishna Prashad Bhandari, who has a spinal cord injury, runs a hostel for children with disabilities. The issue he raises is not personal, but concerns the children in his care. One month ago, a student from his dormitory, who uses a wheelchair, missed her exam because no bus would stop for her. Bus conductors often urge drivers to speed past when they see passengers with disabilities.

Case 3

Suresh Rajbhandari, who was born visually impaired, uses a white cane to navigate. A few days ago, while riding a bus, the conductor began to argue with him because someone else had taken the seat designated for disabled passengers.

These cases illustrate the everyday struggles disabled people face in Nepal. Discussions around disability rarely inspire action, but organizations like the National Association of the Physically Disabled-Nepal (NAPD), the Bhaktapur Association for the Deaf (BHAD) and Nepal Association of the Blind (NAB) have long been advocating for the disabled community. Most of these organizations are nonprofits dedicated to supporting disabled people without hesitation.

Since its inception, NAPD has organized awareness programs, friendly initiatives, and extracurricular activities for disabled individuals, along with providing essential infrastructure. However, despite Article 18 of the 2072 Constitution, which states, "All citizens shall be equal before the law. No person shall be denied the equal protection of law,” implementation remains lacking.

Binita Regmi, chairperson of NAPD, said, “Being physically disabled myself, I understand the daily challenges. One of the biggest struggles is using public transportation. NAPD distributes stickers for buses, primarily on Nepal Yatayat, but we’ve seen no improvement in how we are treated.”

Jayaram Pakka Newar, chairperson of BHAD, communicated through sign language, “Many deaf people face issues when obtaining driving licenses and with the lack of proper training. Unfortunately, I’m often left out of such discussions because no one makes the effort to teach me.”

Kiran Shilpakar, former president of NAPD, highlighted the positive changes in Lalitpur, where a van has been adapted to assist those with physical disabilities. “I’ve used it multiple times, and it’s been a relief to travel comfortably, knowing I can call for it whenever needed.” But such services are rare. Many buses in Nepal have high entrances, and drivers and conductors often treat disabled passengers rudely. Regmi added, “They stop the bus in inconvenient spots, forcing us to get off quickly. This can lead to falls and further injuries.”

Binu Thapa, a member of the Bhaktapur Social Development Branch, echoed these frustrations. “People use harsh, abusive language towards us when we travel by bus. Even after buying our own four-wheeled scooters, we’re criticized because they take up extra space.”

Thapa added, “We’re also frequently denied to have driving licenses, even though many of us can drive safely. This leaves us vulnerable in accidents, and we’re scolded when we use scooters designed for disabled because they take up space on the road.”

Suresh Neupane, a member of NAB, proposed a practical solution. “Buses should be painted primarily white and green, as these colors are more visible to those with low vision. It would also help if buses had a voice system announcing stops, so we know where we are.”

Ram Krishna Shrestha, from the Sano Thimi traffic police, said, “We are trained to help and respect others in need. While there are systems in place to verify licenses, we are taught not to check the licenses of individuals with disabilities under certain circumstances. We’ll make sure to assist disabled people more attentively.”

Suresh Rajbhandari, former president of Voice Bhaktapur, pointed out another issue: “Consistency in seating arrangements for disabled passengers is important. It’s confusing when every bus places these seats in different locations.”

Shilpakar also discussed various policies aimed at supporting disabled people and urged, “We want this information to be widely known.”

The 1993 Vehicle and Transport Management Act prohibits people with certain conditions—such as epilepsy, dementia, or severe visual impairments—from obtaining driving licenses. However, the government of Nepal, along with local authorities, is required to make public transportation, bus parks, ticket counters, and boarding areas accessible to all disabled individuals, including wheelchair and white cane users. These provisions are outlined in the 2012 Accessible Physical Structures and Communication Services Guide for Persons with Disabilities.

Section 15 of the 2017 Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act guarantees access to education, housing, workplaces, transportation, and electronic services for people with disabilities. The act also states that disabled individuals have the right to move freely with the assistance of aides or devices of their choosing.

Section 12 of the 2020 Regulations on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities mandates a 50 percent discount on public transport fares for people with disabilities, and that specific seats be reserved for them. The National Policy on Persons with Disabilities, 2023, further emphasizes that transportation must be accessible and disabled-friendly.

Additionally, the government has provisions for grants or concessional loans to disabled individuals for agriculture and self-employment, and offers reduced fares on public transportation. There are also tax exemptions for aids, equipment, and vehicles used by people with disabilities.

But despite all these laws in place, persons with disabilities continue to struggle, be it while traveling in public transport, visiting government offices, or accessing various services, barring them from leading a dignified life.

As many as 228 people have lost their lives while 25 others are still missing in the recent rain-induced floods and landslides. Another 158 people have sustained injuries.

According to Home Ministry spokesperson Rishiram Tiwari, so far 13,071 people have been rescued from the flood-affected areas and search, rescue and relief assistance has been mobilized.

Relief materials, including food are being distributed to the affected people and the injured are being treated free of cost.

Spokesperson Tiwari said that the government has accorded high priority to the rescue and relief, and put up all-out efforts to resume the operation of the obstructed highway.