Nepal’s Bhai Tika Celebrations Hit by Rising Prices

As Nepalis prepare for Bhai Tika, the main ritual of second largest festival of Tihar, this Thursday, markets across the Kathmandu Valley are crowded with shoppers buying traditional spices and ingredients used in the festival, which celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters apply ceremonial “Tika” on their brothers’ foreheads, offering sweets and spices to pray for their long life and well-being.

Despite an increase in shoppers compared to previous years, traders report that rising prices are limiting purchases. Key festival items including dry fruits like coconut, cashews, almonds, walnuts, raisins, cinnamon, pistachios, and sugar are in high demand, with pre-mixed “Bhai Masala” packs also selling quickly.

Popular markets such as Asan, New Road, Bhote Bahal, Bhotahiti Chowk, and Lalitpur’s Lagankhel are witnessing heavy crowds. Retail prices have surged by roughly 10 percent, according to traders.

The Department of Customs reports that in the first two months of the fiscal year, Nepal imported Rupees 300 million (USD 2.4 million) worth of festive ingredients and fruits, including coconuts, nuts, mangoes, oranges, and grapes. Major sources include China, India, the United States, Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia.

The spike in prices highlights the intersection of Nepalis cultural traditions and economic pressures, as families balance festival celebrations with rising costs.