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)

Kag Tihar (Honouring Crows)
According to Hindu mythology, Crow is more than just a bird,  it is seen as a messenger and a symbol of wisdom, crows have a unique connection with ancestors, making them a bridge between the living and the departed, so that Neplese people dedicate the first day of tihar to the crow.

Day 2: Kukur Tihar (Honouring Dogs)

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)

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)

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)

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.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

कार्यमुलक अनुसन्धानकाे नमुना | Action Research | प्रतिवेदन नमुना

Aayush Singh Thakuri and Alizeh Jamali: A Cross-Border Love Story Blossoming on TikTok

The religious conflict : what are factors that contribute to the violence?