Tihar: The Festival of Lights, Love, and Prosperity

Tihar, also known as Yama Panchak or Deepawali, is one of the most significant Hindu festivals celebrated in Nepal. Often referred to as the Festival of Lights, Tihar is marked by vibrant rituals, familial bonds, and harmony with nature. Celebrated by Hindus, Buddhists, and ethnic groups across Nepal, it spans five days and honors deities, animals, and the bond between brothers and sisters.

In 2025, Tihar will be celebrated from October 19 to October 23, filling Nepalese homes and streets with light, music, and joy.

The main theme of this festival is to enjoy the colorful lights, and colors , worship Goddess Lakshmi, prepare delicious food, and showcase the strong relationship between humans and animals, brothers and sisters, etc.

What is Tihar?

Tihar is a festival of light and love, emphasizing the importance of animals, family ties, and divine blessings. It is celebrated to honor Yama (the god of death), Goddess Lakshmi (the goddess of wealth and prosperity), and to express gratitude toward animals that are integral to human lives. Unlike Dashain, which focuses on victory over evil, Tihar highlights unity, prosperity, and the harmony between humans, animals, and gods.

When is Tihar in 2025?

Tihar 2025 will be observed from October 18 to October 23, based on the Hindu Lunar Calendar (month of Kartik). Here is a quick overview of the five days of Tihar:

The timing of Tihar often coincides with the end of the harvest season, adding a sense of gratitude and abundance to the celebrations. It is a time when families come together to honor their traditions, share moments of happiness, and create memories that last a lifetime. In villages and cities alike, the atmosphere is filled with anticipation and joy as people prepare to honor their traditions and deepen their relationships. The festival’s blend of spirituality and festivity makes it a cherished time for all.

Five Days of Tihar Festival: A Day-by-Day Guide

Day 1: Kaag Tihar (Crow Worship)

On the first day of Tihar, crows, considered the messengers of Yama, are honored. Families prepare offerings such as grains, sweets, and rice, which are placed on rooftops or open spaces. It is believed that appeasing crows wards off negativity and bad news. The cawing of crows symbolizes their acceptance of the offerings and blessings.

Crows, in Hindu mythology, are often associated with the divine and are believed to carry messages between the earthly realm and the gods. By feeding the crows, families seek protection from misfortunes and pray for harmony in their homes.

Day 2: Kukur Tihar (Dog Worship)

The second day, Kukur Tihar, is dedicated to dogs, revered for their loyalty and companionship. In Nepalese culture, dogs are believed to guide souls to the afterlife as gatekeepers of death. On this day, dogs are adorned with tika (red vermilion mark), marigold garlands, and are offered delicious meals. Kukur Tihar 2025 falls on October 20, and it beautifully symbolizes the unbreakable bond between humans and dogs.

The celebration is not limited to household pets but extends to stray dogs as well, ensuring that every dog is honored with love and care. This tradition is a heartwarming reminder of the compassion and respect that humans should have for all animals.

Day 3: Gai Tihar and Lakshmi Puja (Cow Worship and Goddess Lakshmi Worship)

On the third day, cows, considered sacred in Hinduism, are worshipped as symbols of motherhood and prosperity. They are adorned with garlands and tika and are offered food as a sign of gratitude.

In the evening, households perform Lakshmi Puja, decorating their homes with oil lamps, candles, and colorful rangoli patterns to welcome Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and fortune. Deusi and Bhailo, traditional singing and dancing rituals, are performed by groups who visit homes to bless families in exchange for gifts and food. This day is a spectacle of lights and joy.

The preparation for Lakshmi Puja often starts early in the morning, with families cleaning and decorating their homes to invite positivity and prosperity. The vibrant rangoli designs, often crafted with colored powders and flowers, symbolize welcoming the goddess into their lives.

Deusi And Bhailo

This is the tradition of Tihar where groups perform folk songs and dances.

• Deusi is traditionally performed by boys and Bhailo by women during Lakshmi Puja night.
• Songs are played with instruments like madal, harmonium, and even modern ones like guitars. These days, both genders perform Deusi-Bhailo, symbolizing equality.

Children, adults, and elders participate, moving from house to house dressed in traditional attire, collecting offerings such as fruits, money, or homemade goods from house owners.

Day 4: Goru Tihar and Govardhan Puja (Ox Worship and Mountain Symbolism)

The fourth day honors oxen, essential for farming in Nepal’s agricultural society. Oxen are decorated with tika, garlands, and fed special meals as a token of appreciation for their hard work.

This day also celebrates Govardhan Puja, commemorating the tale of Lord Krishna lifting Govardhan Hill to protect villagers from torrential rains. A symbolic hill made of cow dung is worshipped to mark this occasion. For the Newar community, this day is special as they celebrate Mha Puja, a self-worship ritual that signifies the start of the Nepal Sambat New Year.

Mha Puja is unique to the Newar community and focuses on self-reflection and purification. It is a deeply spiritual practice that encourages individuals to embrace their inner strength and begin the new year with positivity.

Day 5: Bhai Tika (Worship of Brothers)

The final day of Tihar, Bhai Tika, celebrates the bond between siblings. Sisters apply Saptarangi Tika (seven-colored tika) to their brothers’ foreheads, offer blessings for their long life, and pray for their protection from evil spirits. Brothers, in return, present gifts and blessings to their sisters. Marigold and Makhamali garlands are exchanged, symbolizing love and immortality. Families enjoy a feast together, wrapping up the festival on a note of love and unity.

The exchange of gifts and blessings during Bhai Tika strengthens family ties and creates cherished memories. The colorful tika, combined with heartfelt prayers, makes this day one of the most emotional and meaningful parts of Tihar.

Nepal Sambat: A Historical New Year

The Nepal Sambat New Year is an integral part of Nepal’s cultural heritage, marking the beginning of a unique lunar calendar used predominantly by the Newar community. Established in 879 AD by Shankhadhar Sakhwa, a revered philanthropist, Nepal Sambat was introduced as a debt-free calendar. The story of its origin is one of compassion and generosity—Shankhadhar Sakhwa cleared the debts of the people of Kathmandu Valley, earning him immense respect and the honor of establishing this calendar system.

Nepal Sambat and Tihar share a special connection as the Nepal Sambat New Year coincides with the fourth day of Tihar, known as Mha Puja. Tihar’s emphasis on lights, gratitude, and familial bonds complements the themes of renewal and cultural pride celebrated in Nepal Sambat. Both festivals highlight the essence of harmony, spiritual reflection, and unity within the community. This alignment further enriches the significance of Nepal Sambat as a culturally vibrant event deeply rooted in Nepalese tradition.

Mha Puja: A Celebration of Self

Mha Puja, celebrated on the fourth day of Tihar, translates to “worship of the self.” Unique to the Newar community, this ritual focuses on acknowledging and respecting one’s own body and soul. It is a deeply spiritual practice that signifies purification, renewal, and the start of a new year in the Nepal Sambat calendar.

During Mha Puja, participants create intricate mandalas (decorative designs) and place offerings such as fruits, flowers, and oil lamps on them. Family members sit in a circle and perform rituals led by the eldest member or a priest. The ceremony involves chanting, lighting oil lamps, and placing tika on each other’s foreheads to symbolize blessings and prosperity.

Mha Puja encourages individuals to embrace their inner strength, practice gratitude, and set positive intentions for the year ahead. It is a celebration that blends spirituality with cultural pride, making it a meaningful part of the Tihar festival.

Legends and Myths of Tihar

Tihar is steeped in legends and myths that add to its spiritual and cultural significance. One of the central stories involves Yama, the god of death, and his sister Yamuna. According to mythology, Yamuna invited Yama to her home, symbolizing the bond between siblings. She applied tika on his forehead and prayed for his prosperity and long life. Touched by her love, Yama declared that any brother who received tika from his sister on Bhai Tika would be protected from untimely death. This legend forms the foundation of Bhai Tika, the final day of Tihar.

Another important tale revolves around Goddess Lakshmi, who is believed to visit homes during Tihar to bless them with wealth and prosperity. This is why households are decorated with oil lamps and rangoli to guide her way. The story of Lord Krishna lifting Govardhan Hill, celebrated on Govardhan Puja, underscores themes of protection and gratitude, further enriching the festival’s narratives.

These myths and legends not only connect Tihar to divine figures but also highlight the festival’s deeper themes of love, gratitude, and protection.

Key Elements of Tihar

1. Flowers in Tihar

• Marigold (Sayapatri): Represents positivity, purity, and life.
• Globe Amaranth (Makhamali): Symbolizes immortality and enduring relationships. These flowers are particularly significant during Bhai Tika.

2. Saptarangi Tika

The seven-colored tika used during Bhai Tika represents:

• Red: Power, love, and respect.
• Yellow: Peace, learning, and prosperity.
• Green: Harmony, nature, and balance.
• Blue: The sky, infinity, and protection.
• White: Purity, truth, and cleanliness.
• Purple: Creativity, spirituality, and nobility.
• Pink: Love, kindness, and affection.

The tika creates a rainbow-like appearance on the forehead, symbolizing protection, harmony, and blessings.

3. Lights and Decorations

Homes and streets are adorned with oil lamps, candles, and electric lights. Rangoli patterns made of colorful powders and flowers add to the festive charm.

4. Deusi and Bhailo

Traditional songs and dances performed during Lakshmi Puja bring communities together. Boys traditionally sing Deusi, while girls perform Bhailo, though modern celebrations often include both genders. These performances are often accompanied by traditional instruments such as the madal and harmonium, creating a lively and festive atmosphere.

How to Celebrate Tihar as a Tourist in Nepal

• Participate in Deusi-Bhailo performances to experience Nepalese hospitality.
• Witness the vibrant lighting displays and rangoli art.
• Learn to apply Saptarangi Tika and make flower garlands.
• Enjoy traditional Nepalese cuisine and sweets prepared during the festival.
• Visit temples and immerse yourself in the cultural richness of the festival.

If you’re visiting Nepal in 2025, Tihar is a must-see celebration that showcases the country’s rich cultural heritage and traditions. It offers a unique opportunity to witness and participate in rituals that are both ancient and meaningful. Tourists can also engage in cultural exchange by joining local families in their celebrations, making Tihar a memorable experience.

Popular Destinations During Tihar

Tihar is a fantastic time to explore Nepal, as cities and towns come alive with vibrant decorations and celebrations. Some popular destinations include:

• Kathmandu Valley: The cultural heart of Nepal, Kathmandu is lit with oil lamps, and traditional Newar communities celebrate Mha Puja and Nepal Sambat New Year. The streets of Patan and Bhaktapur, with their ancient temples and palaces, are particularly mesmerizing during Tihar.
• Pokhara: Known for its scenic beauty, Pokhara takes on a magical charm with Tihar lights reflecting on Phewa Lake. The city’s peaceful vibe and celebrations make it a popular destination for visitors.
• Bandipur: This picturesque hilltop town is known for its traditional houses and community celebrations, making it a unique spot to experience Tihar away from the hustle and bustle.
• Lumbini: While traditionally associated with Buddhism, Lumbini also participates in Tihar festivities, with monasteries and temples adorned with lights and offerings.

Trekking During Tihar

Tihar coincides with one of the best seasons for trekking in Nepal. With clear skies and favorable weather, many trekkers take the opportunity to explore the majestic Himalayas while also experiencing the cultural vibrancy of the festival.

• Everest Base Camp Trek: Witness the grandeur of the world’s highest peak and enjoy the unique blend of Sherpa culture and Tihar celebrations in villages along the way.
• Annapurna Circuit: This trek offers stunning landscapes and cultural immersion. Villages en route celebrate Tihar with traditional songs, lights, and rituals.
• Langtang Valley Trek: Known for its breathtaking views and Tamang culture, trekking during Tihar allows visitors to enjoy the festival spirit in remote mountain communities.
• Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek: A shorter trek with spectacular views, this route is perfect for travelers looking to combine Tihar celebrations with Himalayan adventure.

Trekking during Tihar is a unique experience, as it allows visitors to witness the festival’s joyous atmosphere in remote mountain villages, offering a blend of adventure and cultural immersion.

Dashain and Tihar: Celebrating Nepal’s Vibrant Festivals

Dashain and Tihar are the two most significant festivals in Nepal, celebrated just weeks apart. While Dashain, known as the Festival of Victory, focuses on the triumph of good over evil and includes large family gatherings, Tihar complements it with themes of light, love, and gratitude.

Dashain is marked by animal sacrifices, family reunions, and blessings from elders, symbolizing power and protection. On the other hand, Tihar focuses on honoring animals, siblings, and deities through rituals that emphasize harmony and prosperity. Together, these festivals provide a glimpse into Nepal’s rich cultural and spiritual traditions, showcasing unity, familial bonds, and devotion.

For visitors, experiencing both festivals offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in Nepalese culture, from the vibrant kites and swings of Dashain to the radiant lights and songs of Tihar.

Conclusion

Tihar, the Festival of Lights, Love, and Prosperity, is a vibrant celebration of Nepalese culture that unites families and communities. With its dazzling lights, beautiful traditions, and heartfelt rituals, it is a festival that transcends religion and socioeconomic status.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Tihar 2025 promises an unforgettable experience filled with joy, harmony, and love. It is a time to cherish the bonds that connect us and to celebrate the beauty of life in all its forms. By participating in Tihar, one can truly understand the essence of Nepalese culture, where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly to create moments of shared happiness and spiritual connection.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Tihar in Nepal