Tihar | Tihar Festival | Five day Festival of Nepal
What is Tihar?
Tihar
is a heartwarming and joyous celebration belonging to the Hindu religion. Tihar
is also known as Deepawali or the Festival of Lights, holds a special place in
the hearts of Nepalese people. This is five day festival, celebrated with great
enthusiasm and reverence, falls in either October/November, following the favourable occasion of Dashain. The festival pays homage to
various animals and divine entities, celebrating their role in human
lives. In this article, we will explain
the five days celebrations of the rich traditions and cultural significance
that make Tihar a truly unique and cherished occasion.
Day
1: Kag Tihar (Honouring Crows)
Day 2: Kukur Tihar (Honouring Dogs)
The Second day of the Tihar festival is "Kukur Tihar," where dogs are worshipped as symbols of loyalty and protection. Hindus celebrate the profound relationship between humans and dogs. As man's loyal friend and guardian, the dog occupies a special place in Nepalese society, and Kukur Tihar honors this bond in a truly remarkable way.
Day
3: Gai Tihar/ Laxmi puja (Honouring cows and goddess of Wealth Laxmi)
The
third day of Tihar is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Laxmi and the cows,
the harbinger of wealth and prosperity. Intricately designed rangoli patterns,
known as "mandalas," adorn doorways and courtyards, welcoming the
goddess into homes. In the third day of Tihar Oil lamps and candles, light up
every corner. Tihar is also known as the festival of light. In this similar day
of "Gai Tihar," cows are venerated for their role as providers of
milk and sustenance. These gentle creatures are adorned with marigold garlands
and vibrant tika, marks on their foreheads.
Day
4: Goru Tihar (Honouring Bulls)
According to Hindu mythology, cattle are associated with Nandi, the sacred bull and vehicle of Lord Shiva. By honoring cattle on this fourth day, people seek the blessings of Nandi and express great respect for the divine qualities embodied by these animals. These gentle creatures are adorned with marigold garlands and vibrant tika, marks on their foreheads, signifying their importance in the agricultural society of Nepal.
Day
5: Bhai Tika (Worship to protect brothers)
The final day of Tihar, known as "Bhai Tika," celebrates the unique bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters perform a special ritual where they apply tika and garlands to their brothers, seeking their well being and protection. In return, the brothers offer gifts as a symbol of their love and appreciation.
Tihar
is a time when Nepal is full of light, joy, and love. It's a chance for people
to show their appreciation to animals, gods, and each other. This festival
brings smiles and warmth to everyone's hearts.
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