Markets Buzz, Marigolds Blaze as Tihar Begins in Nepal

Nepal begins its five-day-long Hindu festival of Tihar, also known as Yama Panchak. Tihar is one of the most vibrant and widely celebrated festivals in the country, often referred to as the “Festival of Lights”.

Tihar is second only to Dashain and is marked by dazzling lights, cultural rituals and deep spiritual symbolism. The festival begins today with Kaag Tihar and Dhantrayodashi, a day dedicated to honoring crows.

In Hindu faith Crows are considered messengers of both good and bad news. Devotees offer food to crows in a gesture meant to avert grief and death.

Each day of Tihar is devoted to the worship of different animals or deities.

The second day is Kukur Tihar. The day is observed worshipping dogs. The third day is Gai Tihar and Laxmi Puja, featuring worshipping cows and Laxmi, the goddess of wealth. The fourth day of Tihar is known as Goru Puja worship of Oxen, while the fifth and the final day is Bhai Tika the day when brothers receive Tika from their sisters.

Streets, homes and temples are lit up with butter lamps and electric lights . Traditional sweets like sel roti (a rice-flour doughnut) are prepared and people get together and sing Deusi-Bhailo carols.

However, people from the Newari community celebrate the fourth day of Yama Panchak as Mha Puja worship of own soul.

Unlike many festivals of Nepali Hindus that center solely around deities, Tihar emphasizes respect for animals, nature, family bonds and spirituality.