Kathmandu, Nov 11: Tihar, the second-largest festival of Nepali Hindus, kicks off today, marking the beginning of five days of vibrant celebrations. Also known as Yam Panchak, the festival holds special significance with each day dedicated to different rituals.
The first day of Yam Panchak, known as Kaag Tihar, involves feeding crows, revered as messengers in Nepali society. The second day, Kukur Tihar, is devoted to worshipping dogs. The third day, Gai Tihar and Laxmi Puja, centers around the veneration of cows and Laxmi, the goddess of wealth.
The fourth day of Tihar, Goru Puja, involves the worship of oxen. The fifth and final day is Bhai Tika, a day when brothers receive Tika from their sisters. However, the Newari community celebrates the fourth day of Yam Panchak as Maha Puja, focusing on the worship of one’s own soul.
The auspicious hour for Bhai Tika this year is set at 10:51 am on November 15, as per the Nepal Calendar Determination Committee.
Tihar is also renowned as the Festival of Lights. Throughout the celebration, people adorn their homes with colorful lights, flowers, and oil lamps. The festival is marked by feasting on various delicacies, including sweets and sel roti.
Key elements of the festival include playing deusi-bhailo and worshipping various animals and birds. The government has declared a public holiday from Laxmi Puja to the day following Bhai Tika, spanning from November 12 to 16.
11th Nov 2023
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