Tihar ( Dipawali) fastival in Nepal!!! Professional

Tihar, also known as Deepawali or Yamapanchak, is a Hindu festival widely celebrated in Nepal, as well as in certain parts of India and among the Nepali diaspora. Tihar usually takes place in October or November, following Dashain. It is a five-day festival that celebrates the bond between humans and animals, as well as various aspects of nature. Each day of Tihar has its own unique significance and rituals. Here's an overview of the Tihar festival in Nepal:

Day 1: Kag Tihar (Crow Puja): On the first day, crows are honored and worshiped. Crows are considered messengers in Hindu mythology, and offering food to them is believed to bring good luck.

Day 2: Kukur Tihar (Dog Puja): On this day, dogs are revered for their loyalty and relationship with humans. Dogs are adorned with garlands and tika (vermillion mark) on their foreheads. They are also fed special treats.

Day 3: Gai Tihar and Laxmi Puja (Cow Puja and Worship of Goddess Laxmi): Cows are venerated as symbols of wealth and abundance. They are adorned with garlands and worshipped. In the evening, Goddess Laxmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, is worshipped. Homes and businesses are decorated with oil lamps to welcome her blessings.

Day 4: Govardhan Puja, Mha Puja, and Newar New Year: In some communities, the fourth day is known as Govardhan Puja, where hills made of cow dung are worshipped. For the Newar community in Nepal, this day marks Mha Puja, a ritual where individuals worship themselves to cleanse their bodies and souls.

Day 5: Bhai Tika (Brother-Sister Ritual): The final day of Tihar is dedicated to celebrating the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters perform rituals and offer tika and garlands to their brothers, praying for their well-being. In return, brothers give gifts and blessings to their sisters.

During Tihar, various decorations are made using colorful rice flour or colored powder, creating intricate and beautiful designs on the ground, known as "rangoli" or "mandala." Oil lamps and candles are lit to illuminate homes, streets, and public spaces.

Tihar holds cultural and religious significance and emphasizes the importance of nature, animals, family, and relationships in Nepali society. The festival promotes harmony between humans, animals, and the environment, and it fosters a sense of community and togetherness. It's important to note that while Tihar is rooted in Hindu traditions, it has cultural significance that goes beyond religious boundaries and is celebrated by people of various backgrounds in Nepal.