Tihar in Nepal

 In Nepal, Deepawali (called Tihar or Yamapanchak) is a unique and vibrant festival, celebrated over five days with distinct customs that blend reverence for nature, animals, and familial bonds. Here’s how Tihar is celebrated in Nepal:

First Day: Kaag Tihar (Worship of Crows)

• The festival begins by honoring crows, known as messengers of death. People offer rice, sweets, and other food to crows on this day, believing it brings good fortune and drives away sorrow.

Second Day: Kukur Tihar (Worship of Dogs)

• The second day is dedicated to dogs, regarded as protectors and messengers. People garland dogs with marigold flowers, apply tika (a red mark on the forehead), and feed them special treats as a sign of respect and gratitude.
• This day emphasizes the bond between humans and animals, and it’s celebrated with great joy.

Third Day: Gai Tihar and Laxmi Puja (Worship of Cows and Goddess Lakshmi)

• The morning begins with Gai Tihar, where cows are worshipped as symbols of prosperity and sacred animals. People decorate cows with garlands, tika, and offer them the best food.
• In the evening, homes are decorated with oil lamps, candles, and colorful rangolis (artistic patterns on the floor), and families perform Lakshmi Puja (worship of the goddess of wealth). This day is the most vibrant, with lights and songs creating a festive atmosphere.

Fourth Day: Govardhan Puja or Mha Puja (Worship of Self)

• The fourth day is unique, with variations across ethnic communities. For many, this day is Govardhan Puja, honoring Lord Krishna and celebrating the end of the rice harvest.
• In the Newar community, it’s known as Mha Puja, a day for self-worship, symbolizing purification and empowerment. Each person worships themselves to signify self-care and well-being.
• Also, this day marks the Newar New Year (called Nepal Sambat), with people celebrating with traditional feasts and family gatherings.

Fifth Day: Bhai Tika (Celebration of the Sibling Bond)

• The last day, Bhai Tika, is dedicated to honoring the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters apply tika in various colors to their brothers’ foreheads, symbolizing protection, and brothers give gifts to their sisters.
• Special garlands made from makhamali (a kind of everlasting flower) are exchanged, and siblings pray for each other’s prosperity and long life.

Additional Customs:

• Deusi and Bhailo: Children and youth go from house to house singing traditional songs called Deusi and Bhailo. People offer them money and food as they sing blessings for prosperity.
• Lighting and Decoration: Homes are lit up with oil lamps, candles, and electric lights, and rangolis are made at the entrances to invite prosperity.

In Nepal, Tihar is as much about nature, animals, and family bonds as it is about lights and celebrations. The festival brings communities together, with traditions passed down over generations.