Tihar, also known as Deepavali or the Festival of Lights, is one of the most beloved and anticipated festivals in Nepal. Spanning five days, Tihar holds immense cultural and religious significance, illuminating homes and hearts with joy, reverence, and love.

Rooted in Hindu mythology, Tihar celebrates the bond between humans and nature, as well as the triumph of light over darkness. Each day of the festival is dedicated to honoring different entities, including crows, dogs, cows, and brothers, through prayers, rituals, and offerings.

The first day of Tihar, known as Kaag Tihar, is dedicated to worshiping crows, which are considered messengers of Yama, the god of death. People offer food and sweets to crows, seeking their blessings for protection and prosperity.

The second day, Kukur Tihar, is devoted to honoring dogs, who are revered as loyal companions and guardians. Dogs are adorned with garlands, tika, and marigold flowers, and offered delicious treats as a token of gratitude for their unwavering loyalty.

The third day, Gai Tihar and Laxmi Puja, celebrates cows and the goddess of wealth, Laxmi. Cows are adorned with garlands and worshipped for their sacred status in Hindu mythology as symbols of wealth and abundance. In the evening, homes are illuminated with oil lamps, candles, and decorative lights to welcome the goddess Laxmi and invoke her blessings for prosperity and fortune.

The fourth day, Govardhan Puja or Goru Tihar, is dedicated to honoring oxen, who play a crucial role in agriculture and transportation. Oxen are decorated with garlands and fed special treats as a gesture of appreciation for their contribution to livelihoods.

The fifth and final day of Tihar is Bhai Tika, a day dedicated to celebrating the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters perform elaborate rituals, applying tika and garlands to their brothers’ foreheads, and offering prayers for their well-being and longevity. In return, brothers shower their sisters with gifts and blessings, reaffirming their love and commitment to each other.

In essence, Tihar is a festival of love, gratitude, and harmony, uniting families, communities, and the entire nation in a celebration of light and life. As oil lamps flicker, and homes glow with warmth and joy, Tihar serves as a reminder of the enduring values of love, compassion, and togetherness that define the Nepali spirit.