TIHAR – The festival of Brother and Sister

• Cultural Blog

TIHAR

Tihar is the second major festival celebrated in Nepal. It is celebrated throughout the countries with lights. This festival is considered as a high spirit festival among all the Hindus and non – Hindus. This is one such festival where animals are worshiped. It is also known as Deepawali, lasts for five days. Furthermore, the five days festival is considered to be of great importance as it shows to not just humans but also animals and birds who maintain an intense relationship with humans.

KAAG TIHAR

The first day of the festival is called Kaag Tihar. Crows are worshipped by offering sweets and other dishes on the rooftop of houses. According to Hindu mythology, it believes that the crows are the sign of happiness after offering them good dishes they will return back happiness and make the family happy.

KUKUR TIHAR

The second day of the festival is called Kukur Tihar. On this day dogs and pets are worship in every house and pet houses. In every part of Nepal, the dogs from street to houses all are treated equally and offer them good dishes on this day. Dogs are regarded as the best friends of human, therefore, it is also highlight bonding among humans and dogs.

LAXMI PUJA

Laxmi puja is the third day of Tihar. On this day Goddess Laxmi is worshipped for the happiness of the family. In the early morning, the females of every house take a holy bath and decorate the house by fresh cow dung. [gobar]. Surprisingly, it is believed that on this day Goddess Laxmi enters the house so, every woman maintains their houses with lights and Diyo. Therefore, this day is also known as one of the most important days of Tihar.

GOVARDHAN PUJA

This day is the fourth day of Tihar. On this day every household gets up early in the morning and take a holy bath. On this day too Goddess Laxmi is worshipped and the same activities as puja, Aradhana is held. Not to mention, this day is taken as the holy day so most of the women are regarded in the reproductive role in pujas and other household activities.

BHAI TIKA

This day is the last and fifth day of Tihar. This day is celebrated for brother and sister. Additionally, On this day the sisters of every house put a tika to brothers and give blessings to their happiness and a better future. Finally, after receiving the tika from sisters’ brother give gift hampers and other sweet dishes.