Share:

Tihar

Tihar is also known as ‘Deepawali’ and the ‘festival of lights’, is one of the most beautiful and significant festivals celebrated in Nepal. It usually falls in the months of Kartik and usually lasts for five days.Tihar is celebrated by Hindus all over Nepal and holds great culture and religion. It is a time when houses glow with light, streets fill with music and families come together. The five days of Tihar are as follows:

1.Kaag Tihar

The festival begins with the worship of crows which are considered the messenger of death and news. People offer rice and sweets on the rooftop to keep the sadness away from their home.

2.Kukur Tihar

On this day, dogs are worshiped and honored for their loyalty and protection. They are decorated with garland, tika and are offered food.

3.Gai Tihar and Laxmi Pooja

The third day is dedicated to cows and Laxmi mata symbolizing wealth and purity. In the evening, the houses are covered with lights and candles to welcome Goddess Laxmi. The god of wealth and prosperity. People perform various performances during this day which includes Deusi Bhailo as well.

4.Govardhan Pooja

The ox, an important animal for agriculture, is worshipped on the fourth day. Farmers thank ox for farming their field .On the same day people also perform Govardhan Pooja.

5.Bhai Tika

This day of Tihar celebrates the bond between brother and sister. Sisters put tika on their brother's forehead .This day strengthens and ties family in love. Sisters and brothers eat many delicious sweets after this pooja for their brothers. Hindu religious people perform this ritual believing brothers will be protected from negativity and death.