Kathmandu, Oct. 17 -- Nepal's top leaders have called for national unity and social harmony in their Dashain messages, while stressing that financial hardship should not make the festival a burden.

President Ramchandra Paudel said Dashain strengthens family ties, social cohesion and goodwill in a country marked by ethnic, religious and cultural diversity. He also expressed condolences to families affected by recent floods and urged collective efforts to help those displaced.

Vice-President Ramsahay Prasad Yadav described Dashain as a celebration of the triumph of truth, justice and integrity over evil, calling for greater tolerance, mutual respect and national unity.

In a message posted on social media on Saturday, Prime Minister Balen...