Tihar festival is also known as Festival of Lights. It is one of the most vibrant and culturally rich celebrations in Nepal, spanning five days filled with rituals, family gatherings, and the honouring of various animals. This festival, which typically occurs in October or November, is a time for Nepalese people to express gratitude, strengthen familial bonds, and invite prosperity into their lives.
Overview of Tihar Festival:
Tihar is celebrated primarily by Hindus in Nepal and is second only to Dashain in terms of significance. It is also known as Deepawali or Yamapanchak and features a series of unique rituals that honour different animals and deities throughout its five days. Each day has its own theme and significance, creating a tapestry of cultural traditions that highlight the interconnectedness of life and nature.
The Five Days of Tihar Festival Celebration:
Day 01: Kaag Tihar (Crow Tihar):
Tihar festival begins with Kaag Tihar, dedicated to crows, which are considered messengers of Yama, the god of death. On this day, households prepare offerings of rice and sweets placed on rooftops to attract crows. This ritual symbolizes respect for all living beings and seeks to ward off negative energies
Day 02: Kukur Tihar (Dog Tihar):
The second day of the Tihar festival honours dogs for their loyalty and companionship. People adorn their dogs with flower garlands and apply tika (a red mark) on their foreheads. Special meals are prepared for them as a gesture of gratitude for their protective nature, believed to guide souls in the afterlife. This day strengthens the bond between humans and their canine companions.
Day 03: Gai Tihar and Laxmi Puja:
On the third day, cows are worshipped alongside Goddess Laxmi. Cows are adorned with colourful garlands and offer prayers in the morning. In the evening, homes are illuminated with oil lamps and candles to welcome Laxmi, the goddess of wealth. Rituals performed on this day aim to invite prosperity into households for the coming year. The lighting of lamps symbolizes the victory of light over darkness.
Day 04: Goru Tihar and Govardhan Puja:
The fourth day celebrates oxen, vital for agricultural work in Nepal. They are honoured with special meals and garlands. This day also coincides with Govardhan Puja, commemorating Lord Krishna’s protection of villagers from storms. The Newar community observes Mha Puja on this day, focusing on self-worship and family unity.
Day 05: Bhai Tika:
The final day of the Tihar festival is Bhai Tika, dedicated to celebrating sibling relationships. Sisters apply tika on their brothers’ foreheads while praying for their well-being, prosperity, and longevity. In return, brothers offer gifts to their sisters. This day encapsulates themes of love and familial bonds that resonate deeply within Nepali culture.
Cultural Significance of the Tihar Festival Celebration:
Tihar serves as a reminder of the importance of family ties, respect for nature, and gratitude towards animals that play significant roles in human lives. The festival’s rituals foster community spirit as families come together not only to celebrate but also to share blessings through songs like Bhailo and Deusi45. As night falls during Tihar, cities like Kathmandu transform into dazzling displays of lights homes adorned with diyos (oil lamps), candles, and electric lights create a magical atmosphere that celebrates life itself.
Tihar is more than just a festival. It is a profound expression of culture that intertwines spirituality with everyday life in Nepal. Each ritual reinforces respect for all forms of life while fostering love within families making it a truly enchanting celebration.