Tihar

Tihar, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most important and widely celebrated festivals in Nepal. It typically takes place in October or November and lasts for five days. Tihar is the Nepali version of Diwali, celebrated by Hindus in Nepal and some parts of India. Each day of the festival is dedicated to the worship of a different animal or deity, signifying the harmony between humans, nature, and gods.

Days of Tihar:

1. Kaag Tihar (Day of the Crow): The first day is dedicated to crows, which are considered messengers of death in Hindu mythology. People offer food to crows in the morning as a way of warding off sorrow and grief.

1. Kukur Tihar (Day of the Dog): On the second day, dogs are worshiped for their loyalty and protection. They are adorned with garlands (called mala), vermilion tika on their foreheads, and are offered delicious treats.

1. Gai Tihar and Laxmi Puja (Day of the Cow and Goddess of Wealth): The third day is for worshiping cows, symbols of prosperity and sacredness in Hindu culture. Later in the evening, homes are illuminated with oil lamps and candles to welcome Laxmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. It is the most important day of the festival.

1. Govardhan Puja and Mha Puja (Day of the Ox and Self): On the fourth day, oxen are worshiped, and for the Newar community, it is also Mha Puja, the worship of one's own body and spirit. It symbolizes self-respect and purification.

1. Bhai Tika (Brother-Sister Day): The final day is Bhai Tika, which celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters perform a ritual for their brothers, applying tika (a colorful mark) on their foreheads, garlanding them, and praying for their long life and prosperity, while brothers give gifts in return.

Highlights:

Lights and Decorations: Homes and streets are lit up with oil lamps, candles, and decorative lights. Rangoli (colorful patterns made with powdered dyes) are also made to welcome Laxmi.

Deusi Bhailo: Children and young people go door-to-door singing traditional songs like "Deusi" and "Bhailo," which are forms of blessings in exchange for gifts, money, and food.

Social Importance: Tihar strengthens family ties and fosters social harmony. It is a time for community bonding, worship, and sharing.

Tihar is a beautiful celebration that brings together worship, nature, family, and light, making it a colorful and spiritually significant festival in Nepal.