Tihar, also known as the festival of lights, is a vibrant and colorful festival celebrated in Nepal. It is a five-day-long festival that usually falls in October or November and is also celebrated by some Hindu communities in India and other parts of the world. Tihar is a time of joy, reunion, and celebration, and it holds great religious and cultural significance in Nepali society.
The first day of Tihar is called Kag Tihar or Crow Puja, where people worship crows, which are considered as messengers of the gods. On the second day, Kukur Tihar, people worship dogs, who are believed to be loyal and protective animals. The third day is the most important day of the festival, which is called Laxmi Puja. On this day, people worship the goddess of wealth and prosperity, Laxmi. They decorate their homes with lights and candles to welcome the goddess and perform various rituals to seek her blessings.
The fourth day of Tihar is called Govardhan Puja or Mha Puja. On this day, people worship cows, which are considered sacred in Hinduism, and also perform a self-purification ceremony called Mha Puja. The last day of Tihar is called Bhai Tika, where sisters put a tika or a colored mark on their brothers' foreheads and perform various rituals to wish them good health, long life, and prosperity.
Tihar is a festival of lights, color, and togetherness. People decorate their homes with colorful lights, candles, and diyas, which create a magical atmosphere. They also prepare delicious food and sweets, exchange gifts and greetings, and enjoy the traditional songs and dances. Tihar also highlights the importance of relationships, respect, and love.
Tourists can experience Tihar by participating in the various cultural activities and events held during this time. They can witness the colorful processions and dances, taste the traditional food, and observe the rituals and ceremonies associated with the festival. It is an excellent opportunity for tourists to learn about Nepali culture, history, and tradition.
In conclusion, Tihar is a vibrant and colorful festival celebrated in Nepal, which celebrates the triumph of good over evil and the importance of relationships and respect. It is a time of lights, color, and togetherness, and it holds great religious and cultural significance in Nepali society. Tourists can experience the vibrant culture of Nepal by participating in the festivities, observing the rituals, and learning about the customs and practices associated with Tihar.