Tihar, the festival of lights.

Have you ever heard of a festival, in which you worship a dog? Or a cow? Or even a crow? Today, I am going to introduce about a festival in Nepal called Tihar, also known as Diwali or Deepawali. It is also called festival of light because every house is decorated with lights. It is celebrated in India and by Hindus from other countries as well, but no one does it like Nepal does. Nepal has its own twist.

Tihar is the biggest festival in Nepal after Dashain. It often falls between mid-October and mid-November. Tihar is celebrated for five days and each day portrays peculiar functionalities and importance.

First day: Kaag Tihar. (Crow Tihar)

Kaag Tihar is the first day of the Tihar. In Hinduism, crows are regarded as ‘Messenger of Death.’ On this day, people offer rice and sweets to the crows. People worship crows to make sure that they remain happy.

Second day: Kukur Tihar (Dog Tihar)

Dogs are regarded as ‘the Gatekeeper of Death.’ On this day, we Nepalese people honor the dogs for we believe that the dog will guarantee the souls of the dead to induce in heaven. They are offered flower garlands and food on this day.

Third Day: Gai Tihar (Cow Tihar) / Laxmi Puja

In Hinduism, cow signifies prosperity and health. Also, cows are regarded as ‘Mother’ in Hindu society. On this day, people show their gratitude to cows by feeding them the best grass.

In the evening, Laxmi, Goddess of Wealth is worshipped in every house. Goddess Laxmi likes a well-lit place, so every house is decorated with lights and oil lamps hoping the arrival of Goddess Laxmi. At night, girls play Bhaili, by singing folk Bhaili songs, dancing and visiting other houses. They are offered with money and other things as tip, which they share among themselves.

Fourth day: Govardhan Puja (Oxen Tihar)

An ox is a helper for the farmer. This day is celebrated by people thanking oxen for their contribution. Also, on this day, boys play Deusi, where a lead sings a song telling the story of the festival and other boys repeat the chorus. They are offered with money, fruits and sweets by the house owner.

Fifth Day: Bhai Tika

The final day of Tihar is called Bhai Tika, and this is the day of brothers and sisters. On this day, sisters put seven-colored Tika on their brother’s forehead and give them gifts. The brothers reciprocate it with money or with gifts. Sister worship their brothers wishing for their prosperous and long life.