Tihar Festival in Nepal: A Time for Lights, Laughter, and Love
One of the most beautiful and colorful festivals we celebrate in Nepalis Tihar. Also known as the “Festival of Lights,” Tihar is a time when we come together with our families, light up our homes, and show love and respect to not just each other, but also to animals and nature.
What is Tihar?
Tihar is a five-day festival that usually falls in October or November, depending on the Nepali lunar calendar. It’s a time when we worship Laxmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, and also celebrate the important roles that different animals play in our lives.
Day 1: Kag Tihar (Worship of Crows)
The first day of Tihar is called Kag Tihar. On this day, we offer food to crows. Crows are seen as messengers of bad news, so by feeding them, we hope to keep sad news away from our homes. Early in the morning, people put food on their rooftops or yards for the crows. It’s a fun sight to see the crows gather and eat the food!
Day 2: Kukur Tihar (Worship of Dogs)
The second day is Kukur Tihar. On this day, we show our love and respect to dogs. Dogs are important in Nepali culture because they are believed to guard the gates of the afterlife. On this day, dogs are given special treats, flower garlands, and a tikka (a red mark on their forehead). Even stray dogs are treated with kindness. Many people who own dogs feel extra proud and happy on this day!
Day 3: Gai Tihar and Laxmi Puja (Worship of Cows and Goddess Laxmi)
The third day is one of the busiest and most important days of Tihar. In the morning, we worship cows. Cows are sacred in Nepal, and on Gai Tihar, they are given garlands, tika, and special food. Cows represent wealth and prosperity in our culture.
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In the evening, we perform Laxmi Puja, where we welcome the goddess Laxmi into our homes. We light oil lamps and candles all around the house to guide her way. The whole house twinkles with lights, and it looks magical! Families also draw colorful rangoli patterns (designs made with colored powder) at their doorsteps to welcome the goddess.
Day 4: Goru Tihar (Worship of Oxen) and Mha Puja
On the fourth day, we worship oxen, as they are important for farmers. This day is called Goru Tihar. In some parts of Nepal, people also perform Mha Puja, which is a special puja for oneself. It’s a time to celebrate our own lives and wish for good health and happiness in the coming year.
Day 5: Bhai Tika (Brother’s Day)
The last and most emotional day of Tihar is Bhai Tika. On this day, sisters put a special tika on their brothers’ foreheads to wish them long life and good health. In return, brothers offer gifts and promise to protect their sisters. Sisters also perform a special ritual where they circle their brothers, putting oil on the floor to keep away the god of death, Yama.
The bond between brothers and sisters is very special in Nepali families, and Bhai Tika makes that bond even stronger. Families come together, share food and gifts, and enjoy the day.
Lights, Music, and Fun
Throughout Tihar, you’ll see homes lit up with colorful lights, candles, and oil lamps. People also play Deusi and Bhailo, which are traditional songs and dances. Groups of people, especially young ones, go from house to house singing these songs. In return, they are given money, fruit, or sweets. It’s a fun way to celebrate and bring the community together.
What Tihar Means to Us
Tihar is not just about lights and rituals. It’s a time for love, family, and gratitude. We not only worship gods and animals, but we also take time to thank the important people in our lives. It’s a festival that brings joy, peace, and togetherness.
So, if you ever get a chance to visit Nepal during Tihar, you’ll see homes sparkling with lights, hear the sound of music in the streets, and feel the warmth of love and family in the air.
Happy Tihar to everyone! 🎉🪔✨
