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.

Diwali in India

Diwali, the festival of lights, is one of the most celebrated festivals in India, marked by a wide array of vibrant customs and traditions. Here’s a glimpse into how Diwali is celebrated across India:

Cleaning and Decorating the Home

• People start preparing days in advance by thoroughly cleaning, renovating, and decorating their homes. It’s believed that a clean and well-lit home invites the goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity.
• Homes are adorned with colorful rangoli (artistic designs made with colored powders or flower petals) at the entrance, and beautiful torans (decorative garlands) are hung on doors.

Lighting Lamps and Candles

• Diwali is also called the “Festival of Lights.” People light up their homes with diyas (oil lamps), candles, and fairy lights, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.

Worship (Puja) of Deities

• Lakshmi Puja is central to Diwali celebrations. Families gather to pray to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha, seeking blessings for wealth, prosperity, and happiness.
• After the puja, it’s common to distribute offerings as prasad (food blessed in the ritual) among family and friends.