Tihar Festival, a five-day celebration, falls in autumn and is one of the most awaited festivals in Nepal and some parts of India. It symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. Tihar is known as Deepawali which from the Sanskrit word “Deepawali,” which means “rows of lighted lamps “. In this article, we will explore the various aspects of the Tihar festival and associated traditions.
Tihar 2024 Date:
The Tihar festival in 2023 in Nepal will be celebrated from November 11th to November 15th. The main dates are as follows:
| Date | Day |
|---|---|
| October 30, 2024 | Kaag Tihar |
| October 31, 2024 | Laxmi Pooja/Kukur Tihar |
| November 01, 2024 | Gai TIhar |
| November 02, 2024 | Gobardhan Pooja/Mha: Pooja |
| November 03, 2024 | Bhai Tika |
Five Days of Tihar Festival
1. Kag Tihar (Crow Tihar):
The first day of Tihar is dedicated to worshiping crows, which are considered as messengers of Yama, the god of death. In the morning, people offer food and sweets on rooftops or open spaces for crows, symbolizing their respect and gratitude towards them.
2. Kukur Tihar (Dog Tihar):
On the second day, dogs are revered for their loyalty and companionship. They are decorated with garlands of flowers and vermilion on their foreheads. People offer them delicious food, apply tika (a colored mark) on their foreheads, and offer prayers for their well-being. Dogs, which are believed to guard the gates of the afterlife, are considered sacred during this day.
3. Gai Tihar and Laxmi Puja (Cow Tihar and Worship of Goddess Laxmi):
The third day is dedicated to cows and the worship of Goddess Laxmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth and prosperity. Cows are considered holy and are decorated with garlands and painted horns. They are worshipped in the morning, and people offer them various delicacies. In the evening, houses are lit up with oil lamps and candles to welcome Goddess Laxmi. People perform Laxmi Puja, offer prayers, light oil lamps, and make beautiful rangoli (decorative patterns) to invite prosperity and good fortune into their homes.
4. Goru Puja (Ox Worship) and Govardhan Puja:
The fourth day of Tihar is dedicated to the worship of oxen and the Govardhan hill. Oxen are decorated and worshipped in the morning as they play a significant role in agriculture. In some places, people also build a symbolic representation of Govardhan hill using cow dung and worship it. This day is also known as Mha Puja (self-worship) in some communities, where individuals perform rituals to honor and cleanse themselves.
5. Bhai Tika (Sisters’ Tihar):
The fifth and final day of Tihar is a special day for siblings. Sisters perform a ritual called Bhai Tika, where they put a seven-colored tika on their brothers’ foreheads, tie sacred threads around their wrists, and offer them sweets and gifts. In return, brothers give gifts to their sisters and express their love and gratitude. It is a day to celebrate the bond between siblings and is marked by joyous family gatherings.
Rituals and Traditions during Tihar Festival
During Tihar Festival, various rituals and traditions are followed to create an atmosphere of joy and harmony. People light oil lamps (diyas) and decorative electric lights to illuminate their homes and surroundings, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness. Intricate rangoli patterns are made using colored powders, flowers, and rice flour to decorate the entrances.
One of the unique aspects of Tihar Festival is the worship of animals and birds. Apart from crows and dogs, other animals like cows, oxen, and birds such as ravens and sparrows are worshipped and offered food. This practice reflects the deep respect and reverence people have towards all living beings.
Another important tradition during Tihar Festival is the playing of Deusi and Bhailo. Groups of young people visit houses and sing traditional songs in exchange for money and treats. This cultural practice strengthens community bonds and spreads joy throughout the neighborhood.
The exchange of gifts and sweets is an integral part of Tihar Festival. Family members, friends, and relatives exchange presents as a gesture of love and affection. Homemade sweets like sel roti, kaju barfi, and anarsa are prepared and shared, enhancing the festive spirit.
Conclusion
Tihar Festival is a celebration of light, love, and harmony. It is a time when people come together to embrace their cultural heritage, strengthen social bonds, and spread joy throughout the community. The festival’s rituals, traditions, and vibrant celebrations showcase the rich cultural diversity and promote unity and inclusiveness. As we celebrate Tihar, let us cherish the values it represents and strive to create a world filled with light, love, and harmony.
FAQs
1. What is the duration of Tihar Festival?
Ans. Tihar Festival lasts for five days, with each day dedicated to different rituals and celebrations.
2. Is Tihar Festival only celebrated in Nepal and India?
Ans. No, Tihar Festival is celebrated by Hindus living across the world, including countries like Bhutan, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka.
3. How does Tihar Festival promote social harmony?
Ans. Tihar Festival promotes social harmony by encouraging people to embrace diversity, respect all living beings, and foster a sense of unity and equality.
4. What is the significance of lighting oil lamps during Tihar Festival?
Ans. Lighting oil lamps during Tihar Festival symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.
Also Read: Dashain: Nepal’s Biggest Festival of Good Over Evil | Essay | 2023
