Tihar, also known as Deepawali or Yamapanchak, is one of the most significant festivals in Nepal. It is celebrated with immense joy, devotion, and cultural importance. Known for its elaborate rituals, vibrant decorations, and familial bonding, Tihar is a festival that symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, and good over evil.

The festival spans five days, each dedicated to various deities, animals, and relationships. Tihar 2024 promises to be a time of joy, unity, and festivity, with each day holding its unique importance.

This blog post will cover everything about Tihar 2024, including its dates, the rituals performed during the festival, and how celebrations take place across Nepal. We will dive into the rich cultural and spiritual significance of each day, providing a comprehensive guide to understanding the deeper meaning of Tihar.

Tihar

Tihar, also known as the Festival of Lights or Deepawali, is one of the most important and widely celebrated festivals in Nepal. Unlike any other festival, Tihar uniquely honors not only deities but also animals, showcasing the deep connection between humans and nature in Nepali culture. The five-day celebration is filled with lights, colorful decorations, and numerous rituals, with each day dedicated to different animals and gods, making Tihar a festival of gratitude, prosperity, and reverence for all living beings.

The first day of Tihar is Kag Tihar, where crows are worshipped as messengers of Yama, the god of death. People place offerings of food on rooftops or outside their homes to appease the crows. It is believed that by feeding the crows, one can avoid misfortune, as they are seen as carriers of messages from the deceased. This day symbolizes respect for life and death, reflecting the festival’s underlying spiritual connection to the cycle of existence.

The second day is Kukur Tihar, dedicated to dogs, who are seen as loyal protectors and companions in both life and death. In Hindu mythology, dogs are considered the guardians of the afterlife, and their loyalty is honored by decorating them with garlands of marigold flowers and tika, and offering them special food. This day celebrates the bond between humans and dogs, emphasizing their vital role in Nepali households and communities.

The third day, Gai Tihar, is devoted to the worship of cows, which are revered in Hinduism as symbols of wealth, fertility, and motherhood. Cows are adorned with garlands and tika, and they are offered the best food to honor their contributions to society. On this day, people also celebrate Laxmi Puja, worshipping Goddess Laxmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. Homes are lit up with oil lamps, candles, and colorful rangolis (decorative patterns) to welcome the goddess and attract her blessings for prosperity in the coming year.

The fourth day of Tihar varies in celebration depending on the community. In some regions, people celebrate Govardhan Puja, where oxen and bulls are honored for their role in agriculture and their contribution to the livelihood of farmers. Others celebrate Mha Puja, particularly among the Newar community, which focuses on the worship of oneself, recognizing the importance of self-respect and inner peace. It is also Nepal Sambat New Year, adding to the celebratory mood of the day.

The fifth and final day is Bhai Tika, dedicated to the bond between brothers and sisters. On this day, sisters apply tika of seven different colors on their brothers’ foreheads, pray for their long life and well-being, and offer them gifts. In return, brothers give gifts to their sisters as a token of love and protection. Bhai Tika reinforces the strong familial ties that are central to Nepali culture.

Tihar is not only a religious festival but also a time for families to come together, decorate their homes with lights, exchange gifts, and enjoy traditional feasts. The lights and colors of Tihar, along with the unique rituals of honoring animals and family bonds, make it one of the most joyful and meaningful celebrations in Nepal.

Tihar 2024 Dates

Tihar, also known as Yamapanchak, is celebrated according to the lunar calendar. The festival occurs in the month of Kartik (October-November). In 2024, Tihar begins on Friday, November 1st, and ends on Tuesday, November 5th. Each day of the festival is dedicated to different aspects of life, from honoring animals to celebrating familial and sibling bonds. Here’s a detailed look at the dates:

Day 1 – Kag Tihar (Crow Day): November 1, 2024 (Friday)
Day 2 – Kukur Tihar (Dog Day): November 2, 2024 (Saturday)
Day 3 – Gai Tihar and Laxmi Puja (Cow Day and Goddess Laxmi Worship): November 3, 2024 (Sunday)
Day 4 – Govardhan Puja, Mha Puja (Ox Day, Self Worship for Newars): November 4, 2024 (Monday)
Day 5 – Bhai Tika (Brother-Sister Day): November 5, 2024 (Tuesday)

Now, let’s take a closer look at the significance, rituals, and celebrations of each day of Tihar 2024.

Day 1: Kag Tihar (Crow Day) – November 1, 2024

Kag Tihar, or Crow Day, marks the beginning of the Tihar festival. Crows are considered messengers of Yama, the god of death, in Hindu mythology. On this day, people honor the crows by offering them food as a way to ward off negative energy and bad omens.

Significance of Kag Tihar

In Hindu beliefs, crows are regarded as the harbingers of death and messengers of Yama. Their cawing is often interpreted as a warning or an announcement of important events.

By feeding crows on this day, devotees seek to appease them, hoping that the crows will take away any misfortune or bad luck from their homes. This ritual signifies the connection between humans and nature and emphasizes the belief that all living creatures deserve respect and care.

Rituals of Kag Tihar

Feeding Crows: Early in the morning, people prepare special offerings of rice, grains, and sweets for the crows. These offerings are placed on rooftops, terraces, or outdoor spaces where crows are likely to gather. The act of feeding crows is considered an offering to Yama, with the belief that it brings protection from evil and death.
Prayers and Offerings: Along with feeding the crows, families offer prayers for the well-being of their homes and to protect themselves from any evil influences. The day is filled with a sense of respect for nature and a deep belief in maintaining harmony with all creatures.

Celebrations of Kag Tihar

Kag Tihar is a relatively low-key start to the Tihar festival. Families gather in the morning to prepare the food for the crows, followed by a simple ceremony. The atmosphere is one of anticipation as people look forward to the more elaborate celebrations of the upcoming days. However, the essence of Kag Tihar lies in the symbolism of protecting one’s home from negativity by honoring nature’s creatures.

Day 2: Kukur Tihar (Dog Day) – November 2, 2024

The second day of Tihar is dedicated to honoring dogs, known as Kukur Tihar. Dogs hold a special place in Hindu mythology and are regarded as loyal companions and protectors. They are also believed to be messengers of Yama and are worshipped to ensure protection and guidance in the afterlife.

Significance of Kukur Tihar

Dogs are believed to guard the gates of the afterlife and are closely associated with Yama, the god of death. In Hindu culture, dogs represent loyalty, protection, and friendship. By worshipping dogs on this day, people express gratitude for their loyalty and service. The act of honoring dogs also serves as a reminder of the deep connection humans have with animals.

Rituals of Kukur Tihar

Garlanding Dogs: Early in the morning, people honor dogs by placing a marigold garland (known as “mala”) around their necks. This garland symbolizes respect and reverence for the dog’s loyalty and friendship.
Tika on Dogs’ Foreheads: A red tika, made from a mixture of vermillion powder, yogurt, and rice, is applied to the dogs’ foreheads. This tika is a blessing and a way to mark the dog as sacred and respected.
Feeding Special Treats: Dogs are offered special treats, including meat, milk, eggs, and bread. Even stray dogs are not forgotten on this day, as people take care to feed and bless them as well.

Celebrations of Kukur Tihar

Kukur Tihar is a joyous day, filled with love and appreciation for the dogs. Homes that have dogs celebrate by pampering their pets with love, attention, and food. Stray dogs are also taken care of, and it’s a day when the bond between humans and dogs is visibly cherished. The sight of dogs walking around with colorful tika and garlands creates a heartwarming atmosphere.

Day 3: Gai Tihar and Laxmi Puja (Cow Day and Goddess Laxmi Worship) – November 3, 2024

The third day of Tihar is one of the most important and is celebrated in two parts: Gai Tihar, the day dedicated to cows, and Laxmi Puja, the worship of Goddess Laxmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity.

Gai Tihar (Cow Day)

Cows hold a sacred place in Hindu culture and are revered as a symbol of prosperity, motherhood, and nourishment. In Nepal, cows are often considered the earthly representation of Goddess Laxmi. By worshipping cows, people express their gratitude for the nourishment and sustenance that cows provide.

Rituals of Gai Tihar

Garlanding and Tika for Cows: Similar to the rituals for dogs, cows are adorned with garlands of marigold flowers and are given a red tika on their foreheads. The garland and tika are symbolic of honoring the cow’s role in sustaining human life.
Feeding Cows: On Gai Tihar, cows are offered delicious food, including grass, sweets, and grains. Many people believe that feeding cows on this day brings prosperity to their homes.

Laxmi Puja (Worship of Goddess Laxmi)

Laxmi Puja is celebrated on the evening of the third day, marking the most important part of Tihar. Goddess Laxmi, the goddess of wealth, prosperity, and good fortune, is worshipped in homes and businesses to invite her blessings for the coming year.

Rituals of Laxmi Puja

Cleaning and Decorating the House: In preparation for Laxmi Puja, homes are thoroughly cleaned and decorated with rangoli (colorful patterns made from powder or flowers) and oil lamps (diyo) to welcome Goddess Laxmi. The belief is that Goddess Laxmi only enters homes that are clean, pure, and well-lit.
Lighting Oil Lamps (Diyo): Small oil lamps or candles are lit inside and outside the house, especially around doorways and windows. The light symbolizes the dispelling of darkness and ignorance, and the welcoming of knowledge and prosperity.
Offering Prayers to Goddess Laxmi: A beautiful altar is set up for Goddess Laxmi, decorated with flowers, incense, and sweets. Families gather to offer prayers and seek her blessings for wealth, prosperity, and good fortune. A special puja is conducted, where people offer fruits, flowers, and sweets to the goddess.
Playing Deusi and Bhailo: In many parts of Nepal, groups of children and adults visit homes in the neighborhood, singing traditional songs called “Deusi” and “Bhailo.” The singers are often given money, sweets, or food as gifts in return for their blessings and entertainment.

Celebrations of Gai Tihar and Laxmi Puja

The day of Gai Tihar begins with the worship of cows, and as evening approaches, homes and businesses prepare for the grand Laxmi Puja. The sight of homes beautifully illuminated with oil lamps and candles creates a magical ambiance. The celebrations continue late into the night, with families playing Deusi-Bhailo, sharing sweets, and enjoying the festive atmosphere.

**Day 4: Govardhan Puja and Mha Puja (

Ox Day, Self Worship for Newars) – November 4, 2024**

The fourth day of Tihar has various meanings for different communities in Nepal. For most, it is celebrated as Govardhan Puja or Ox Day, while for the Newar community, it is the day of Mha Puja (self-worship).

Govardhan Puja (Ox Day)

On this day, people honor oxen, which are essential to farming and agriculture in Nepal. The ox symbolizes strength, hard work, and support, and farmers express their gratitude to the oxen for their role in plowing fields and sustaining livelihoods.

Rituals of Govardhan Puja

Worshipping the Oxen: Oxen are decorated with garlands and a red tika is placed on their foreheads. They are offered food and given a rest from their usual work.
Govardhan Hill Worship: In Hindu mythology, this day also celebrates Lord Krishna’s victory over Indra, the god of rain. According to the legend, Krishna lifted the Govardhan Hill to protect the people from a devastating storm sent by Indra. In many households, a small replica of Govardhan Hill is made from cow dung and worshipped to honor Lord Krishna’s victory.

Mha Puja (Self-Worship)

For the Newar community, the fourth day of Tihar is dedicated to Mha Puja, which translates to “self-worship.” It is a day to purify and honor oneself, signifying that self-respect and well-being are essential for a prosperous and meaningful life.

Rituals of Mha Puja

Creating Mandalas: Beautiful mandalas (sacred designs) are drawn on the floor using colored powders or flowers. These mandalas represent the self and are central to the rituals performed during Mha Puja.
Purification Ceremony: Individuals sit around the mandalas and perform a series of rituals that include offering flowers, fruits, and sacred items to themselves as a form of self-respect and acknowledgment of one’s importance in the universe.
Blessings and Offerings: Family members exchange blessings and offerings, praying for each other’s well-being, health, and happiness. Mha Puja is considered an important ritual for Newars as it reinforces the value of self-awareness and self-care.

Celebrations of Govardhan Puja and Mha Puja

Govardhan Puja is marked by the worship of oxen and Lord Krishna, while in Newar households, Mha Puja is celebrated with great reverence. The day is about acknowledging the importance of self-respect and the role that animals, particularly oxen, play in human life. It is a day of introspection, gratitude, and joy.

Day 5: Bhai Tika (Brother-Sister Day) – November 5, 2024

The fifth and final day of Tihar is known as Bhai Tika, a day dedicated to celebrating the bond between brothers and sisters. Bhai Tika is a cherished day for siblings, as sisters perform rituals to pray for the long life and well-being of their brothers, while brothers offer gifts and blessings in return.

Significance of Bhai Tika

Bhai Tika is a heartwarming celebration of the sibling bond. The rituals performed during Bhai Tika symbolize the love, protection, and respect shared between brothers and sisters. It is believed that the bond between siblings grows stronger, and the brother is protected from evil and misfortune for the year to come.

Rituals of Bhai Tika

Tika Ceremony: The sister applies a colorful tika made of seven different colors (known as “Saptarangi Tika”) on her brother’s forehead. This tika is a blessing, symbolizing protection and long life.
Garland and Offerings: The sister places a garland made of marigolds and makhamali (globe amaranth) flowers around her brother’s neck. She then offers him sweets, fruits, and food as a token of love and care.
Brothers’ Gifts: In return, the brother gives his sister gifts such as clothes, jewelry, or money, expressing his gratitude and love. He also applies tika on his sister’s forehead as a blessing.

Celebrations of Bhai Tika

Bhai Tika is one of the most emotional and joyous days of Tihar. Siblings dressed in their best attire gather to perform the rituals, exchange gifts, and enjoy a festive meal together. The sight of brothers and sisters sharing tika and garlands is a beautiful representation of familial love and unity.

Conclusion: The Spirit of Tihar

Tihar is more than just a festival of lights; it is a celebration of relationships, nature, and spirituality. Each day of the festival highlights a different aspect of life, reminding people of the importance of love, respect, and gratitude. From honoring animals to cherishing family bonds, Tihar brings families and communities together in joy and reverence.

As we approach Tihar 2024, let’s embrace the true essence of this beautiful festival—celebrating the light within us, spreading love and happiness, and staying connected with the natural world around us. May the five days of Tihar fill your life with prosperity, joy, and blessings!

Happy Tihar 2024!