Tihar, also known as the festival of lights, is one of the most vibrant and cherished festivals in Nepal. Celebrated over five days, it holds a special place in the hearts of Nepali people of all ages. Unlike many other festivals, Tihar is not only about lights and decorations but also about love, respect, and unity. Each day of Tihar has its own significance, starting with the worship of crows, which are considered messengers of death, followed by honoring dogs, cows, and finally, the goddess of wealth, Laxmi.
The festival culminates with Bhai Tika, a day that celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. Homes are decorated with colorful lights, candles, and rangoli patterns, creating a warm and joyful atmosphere. Families come together, sharing sweets, playing traditional games, and singing songs, which strengthens social and familial bonds.
Tihar is also a time to appreciate animals, nature, and the environment around us. Its unique combination of devotion, joy, and culture makes it unlike any other festival. For children, it is especially magical, with the excitement of lights, fireworks, and sweets. Overall, Tihar is a beautiful celebration of life, love, and harmony, making it truly special in Nepalese culture.
1. Introduction: The Festival of Lights and Love in Nepal
Tihar is one of the most loved and colorful festivals in Nepal. It is also known as the Festival of Lights, and it fills homes and streets with lamps, smiles, and joy. People decorate their houses with glowing diyas, beautiful flowers, and colorful rangoli. The festival is all about showing love — not just to people, but also to animals, nature, and the gods.
During Tihar, everyone comes together to celebrate happiness and harmony. Families clean their homes, light candles, and pray to Goddess Laxmi, the goddess of wealth. Children enjoy visiting neighbors, singing Deusi-Bhailo songs, and collecting gifts or treats. The sound of laughter and music fills every corner, making it one of the happiest times of the year.
Tihar is also special because it celebrates relationships and kindness. Each day of the festival honors different beings — crows, dogs, cows, and even brothers and sisters. This teaches kids to love and care for every creature and person around them. It’s a festival that spreads light not only outside but also in our hearts.
2. When Will Tihar Be Celebrated in 2025?
In 2025, Tihar will be celebrated from October 20 to October 24, according to the Nepali lunar calendar. These five days are full of prayers, lights, and family fun. Each day has its own meaning and activities, starting with Kaag Tihar and ending with Bhai Tika. Families begin preparing days ahead, cleaning and decorating their homes for the arrival of Goddess Laxmi.
On each day, people wake up early, offer food to animals, and perform small rituals. The nights are the most magical time, as homes shine with hundreds of diyas and electric lights. Kids love watching the twinkling lights and playing with sparklers. The streets look beautiful, like a fairyland filled with songs and laughter.
Tihar 2025 is expected to be even more exciting because people are now celebrating in more creative and eco-friendly ways. Families are using natural colors for rangoli and clay diyas instead of plastic lights. This helps protect nature while keeping the spirit of the festival alive. It’s a beautiful way to mix tradition with care for the environment.
3. The Meaning Behind the Festival of Lights
The Festival of Lights, or Tihar, carries deep meanings of love, hope, and respect. The lights symbolize the victory of goodness over darkness and truth over lies. By lighting diyas, people invite positive energy and drive away sadness and negativity from their homes. The glow of the lamps also reminds everyone that even a small light can make a big difference in darkness.
Tihar is not just about lights — it’s about gratitude too. It teaches people to appreciate animals, nature, and family. Each day honors a living being, showing that every part of nature is important. This makes the festival not only spiritual but also educational for children. They learn the importance of kindness and how every creature deserves love.
The lights of Tihar also bring people together. Neighbors share sweets, sing songs, and laugh together. It’s a time when communities grow stronger and families reconnect. The festival helps everyone remember that light, when shared, only grows brighter — just like love and happiness.
4. Why Tihar Is So Special for Nepali Families
Tihar holds a special place in every Nepali family’s heart. It’s a time when family members return home, no matter how far they live. Everyone works together to prepare food, clean the house, and decorate it with flowers and lights. Kids join in by helping make rangoli, lighting diyas, and preparing sweets like sel roti and anarsa.
For parents and elders, Tihar is a time to bless their children and pray for their happiness. For brothers and sisters, it’s a festival of bonding, especially during Bhai Tika, when sisters wish long life and success for their brothers. This tradition reminds everyone of the power of love and unity in a family.
Tihar also gives families time to relax, enjoy music, and share laughter. From morning prayers to evening Deusi-Bhailo songs, every moment feels full of warmth. The festival teaches children that the true joy of Tihar comes not from gifts or sweets, but from being together with loved ones and spreading happiness around.
5. Five Joyful Days of Tihar Explained
Tihar is celebrated for five days, and each day has a beautiful meaning. The festival begins with Kaag Tihar, dedicated to crows, the messengers of the gods. People offer food to crows early in the morning, believing it brings good luck and protects families from sadness. The second day is Kukur Tihar, where dogs are honored for their loyalty and friendship.
The third day is very special — Gai Tihar and Laxmi Puja. On this day, people worship cows, which are symbols of wealth and kindness, and pray to Goddess Laxmi to bless their homes with prosperity. The fourth day brings Gobardhan Puja and Mha Puja, which focus on thanking nature and purifying the soul. The final day, Bhai Tika, celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters with love and blessings.
Each day of Tihar teaches an important lesson — love, respect, and gratitude. It reminds children to care for animals, be kind to people, and celebrate nature. Together, these five days create a joyful time filled with light, laughter, and learning for families across Nepal.
6. Kaag Tihar: Honoring the Messenger Crow
The first day of Tihar, known as Kaag Tihar, is dedicated to the crow. In Nepali culture, crows are seen as messengers of the gods. People believe that by feeding them early in the morning, they bring good news and protect homes from sorrow. So, families place food like rice, sweets, or bread on rooftops and windows for the crows.
Children love waking up early to spot the crows and watch them eat. It’s a fun way to start the festival with care and kindness. Parents use this day to teach kids that every creature, no matter how small, plays an important role in nature. The act of feeding crows helps children learn generosity and compassion.
Kaag Tihar also teaches patience and respect for animals. As the first day of Tihar, it sets a peaceful tone for the rest of the festival. The simple act of sharing food reminds everyone that happiness grows when we give and care for others — even the birds in the sky.
7. Kukur Tihar: Celebrating the Loyalty of Dogs
The second day of Tihar, Kukur Tihar, is one of the most heartwarming days of the festival. On this day, dogs are worshiped and treated as protectors and best friends. People put beautiful flower garlands around their necks, apply tika on their foreheads, and offer delicious food. It’s a day to thank dogs for their love, loyalty, and bravery.
Children especially enjoy Kukur Tihar because they get to dress up their pets and feed them special treats. Even street dogs are not forgotten — people share food and show kindness to all dogs. This makes the festival truly meaningful, as it spreads love beyond homes and families.
Kukur Tihar teaches children to respect and care for animals. It reminds everyone that dogs are not just pets but part of our families. Their friendship and protection make our lives happier. Through this celebration, kids learn that kindness to animals is one of the greatest forms of love.
8. Gai Tihar and Laxmi Puja: Welcoming Wealth and Blessings
The third day of Tihar is the brightest and most beautiful day — Gai Tihar and Laxmi Puja. In the morning, people worship cows, as they are symbols of wealth, motherhood, and kindness. Cows are decorated with garlands and tika, and they are given tasty food as a sign of gratitude.
In the evening, families worship Goddess Laxmi, the goddess of wealth and good fortune. Homes are cleaned and decorated with lights, diyas, and colorful rangoli to welcome her. Children help their parents place lamps at doors and windows so that Goddess Laxmi can find her way into their homes. It’s a magical night when the whole neighborhood glows with light.
This day teaches kids the importance of cleanliness, gratitude, and hard work. It reminds families that true wealth is not just money but also happiness, love, and peace. The light of Laxmi Puja brings hope to every heart and makes Tihar 2025 shine even brighter.
9. Gobardhan Puja and Mha Puja: The Rituals of Prosperity and Self-Respect
The fourth day of Tihar is filled with two special rituals — Gobardhan Puja and Mha Puja. On Gobardhan Puja, people worship nature and thank Lord Krishna for saving the villagers from heavy rain by lifting the Govardhan Hill. In Nepal, people make small hills of cow dung, decorate them with flowers, and offer food as a way of showing respect to nature and animals.
Mha Puja, meaning “self-worship,” is celebrated mostly by the Newar community. It is a day to honor one’s own soul and inner energy. Families make mandalas (colorful sand drawings) and perform rituals to purify their bodies and minds. The idea is to remind everyone that respecting oneself is as important as respecting others.
Both rituals teach kids powerful lessons. Gobardhan Puja helps children understand the importance of caring for the environment, while Mha Puja reminds them that self-respect and kindness begin within. It’s a day of reflection, thankfulness, and balance — helping families appreciate both the world outside and the spirit within.
10. Bhai Tika: A Day for Brothers and Sisters
Bhai Tika is one of the most loved days of Tihar, celebrated on the fifth and final day. On this day, sisters apply colorful tika to their brothers’ foreheads and pray for their long life, happiness, and success. In return, brothers give gifts and promise to protect their sisters forever. It is a celebration of love, care, and the strong bond between siblings.
Families prepare special sweets, fruits, and garlands for the ceremony. The seven-colored tika used on this day is called Saptarangi Tika, which represents unity and blessing. Kids love the excitement of exchanging presents, eating sweets, and spending time together. Even cousins and close friends often join in the fun, making it a day full of laughter and smiles.
Bhai Tika teaches children the beauty of family bonds and mutual respect. It reminds them that love between siblings is one of the strongest relationships in life. Through simple rituals and warm gestures, Bhai Tika fills every heart with gratitude and affection.
11. Traditional Foods That Make Tihar Delicious
Tihar is not only a festival of lights but also a celebration of tasty food. Families prepare a variety of traditional dishes that everyone enjoys together. The most popular is Sel Roti, a homemade sweet ring-shaped bread made from rice flour. It is crispy, golden, and smells amazing when cooked. Other favorites include Anarsa, Laddu, Khir, and Barfi, which make the festival even sweeter.
Kids love helping their parents prepare these dishes. Making Sel Roti becomes a fun family activity, with everyone joining in to fry the golden rings. During Deusi-Bhailo, children also receive snacks, fruits, and money from neighbors, making it even more enjoyable. Every bite feels special because it is made with love and shared with others.
Food in Tihar is more than just eating — it’s a way of showing love and togetherness. Families cook, share, and enjoy meals as they celebrate each day. It reminds everyone that happiness grows when it is shared, just like food during this wonderful festival.
12. Colorful Decorations: Lights, Rangoli, and Diyas Everywhere
Tihar turns every home into a world of color and light. People decorate their houses with oil lamps, candles, and bright electric lights. The warm glow of diyas fills every corner, making the nights look magical. Kids enjoy helping their parents arrange diyas along windows, balconies, and doorways to welcome Goddess Laxmi.
Another beautiful part of Tihar decoration is Rangoli, known as Mandala in Nepal. It is made using colored powders, rice, or flowers. Families create beautiful designs at the entrance of their homes to bring happiness and good luck. Children love choosing bright colors and creating patterns with their imagination.
Flowers also play a big role in Tihar decorations. Marigold garlands are hung on doors, windows, and vehicles. The bright orange and yellow flowers add a cheerful touch to the celebration. Together, the lights, colors, and flowers make Tihar 2025 a feast for the eyes and fill every heart with joy and warmth.
13. Popular Games and Activities for Kids During Tihar
Tihar is one of the most exciting times for kids because there are so many fun games and activities to enjoy. Children spend their days playing traditional games like Chungi, Carrom Board, and Ludo with family and friends. The evenings are filled with songs, dancing, and friendly competitions. Many neighborhoods organize small gatherings where kids can sing Deusi-Bhailo or show their talents in fun performances.
One of the favorite activities during Tihar is helping decorate the house. Kids enjoy making colorful rangoli designs, lighting diyas, and hanging garlands on doors and windows. They also love preparing sweets with their parents, especially frying crispy Sel Rotis. Every activity becomes a happy memory that brings the family closer.
Tihar also encourages creativity and sharing. Children exchange small gifts, visit neighbors, and learn to respect traditions while having fun. These joyful activities teach teamwork, patience, and love — showing that Tihar is not only about rituals but also about laughter, play, and bonding.
14. Deusi-Bhailo: Singing and Dancing for Joy and Togetherness
Deusi and Bhailo are two of the most cheerful traditions of Tihar. Groups of children, youths, and even adults go door to door singing traditional songs and dancing. People who listen give them sweets, fruits, or small amounts of money in return. This joyful activity spreads happiness and connects everyone in the community.
Deusi is usually sung by boys and men, while Bhailo is performed by girls and women. The songs often include blessings and good wishes for the house and its family members. The cheerful music and laughter fill the air, making the nights of Tihar truly magical. Kids look forward to this moment all year long.
Deusi-Bhailo teaches children the value of teamwork, unity, and sharing joy with others. It reminds everyone that Tihar is not just about lighting diyas but also about lighting hearts. The spirit of togetherness during these songs shows the true meaning of the festival — spreading happiness wherever you go.
15. Craft Ideas for Kids to Celebrate Tihar Creatively
Tihar is the perfect time for kids to express their creativity through crafts. Making handmade diyas from clay is one of the most popular activities. Children can paint them in bright colors and decorate them with beads or glitter. These diyas look beautiful when lit in the evening and give kids a sense of pride in their creations.
Another fun idea is to create paper lanterns and garlands. Kids can use colorful paper, scissors, and glue to make stars or flower chains to hang around the house. Making rangoli designs with colored rice or flowers is also a creative way to celebrate. It allows children to use their imagination and learn about traditional art at the same time.
Parents can encourage children to make greeting cards for relatives and friends with Tihar wishes. These small handmade gifts spread happiness and love. Through such crafts, kids not only enjoy the festival but also understand its deeper meaning — celebrating creativity, sharing joy, and making memories together.
16. How Families Prepare Their Homes for Goddess Laxmi
Before Laxmi Puja, every family begins preparing their home to welcome the goddess of wealth and prosperity. The preparation starts by cleaning every corner of the house, as it is believed that Goddess Laxmi visits only clean and pure places. Parents and kids work together to sweep, wash, and organize their homes. This creates a sense of teamwork and togetherness.
After cleaning, families decorate their houses with flowers, rangoli, and diyas. The doors and windows are kept open in the evening so that Goddess Laxmi can enter freely. Kids enjoy helping by lighting small lamps and placing them on the balconies and stairways. The sight of glowing diyas fills everyone with excitement and peace.
On the night of Laxmi Puja, families offer sweets, fruits, and money to the goddess and pray for happiness and success. It’s a moment of gratitude and hope. For kids, this tradition is a gentle reminder that cleanliness, respect, and gratitude invite blessings into their lives — both during Tihar and every day of the year.
17. Eco-Friendly Ways to Celebrate Tihar 2025
In recent years, many families have started celebrating Tihar in eco-friendly ways. This helps protect nature while keeping the true spirit of the festival alive. One simple way is by using clay diyas instead of plastic lights. Clay lamps can be reused and do not harm the environment. They also make homes look warm and traditional.
Another eco-friendly idea is to make natural rangoli using rice flour, flower petals, or turmeric instead of chemical colors. Kids enjoy collecting flowers and creating bright, beautiful designs. Families can also reduce waste by reusing decorations and using paper or cloth garlands instead of plastic ones. These small changes make a big difference to the planet.
Eco-friendly Tihar celebrations teach children the importance of caring for nature. They learn that protecting the environment is also a form of worship. By celebrating responsibly, families show that it’s possible to enjoy tradition while keeping the Earth clean and happy — a true way to spread the light of Tihar beyond homes and hearts.
18. The Values and Lessons Tihar Teaches Children
Tihar is more than just lights and sweets — it’s a festival full of important lessons. It teaches children to be kind, thankful, and respectful toward all living beings. By honoring crows, dogs, and cows, kids learn that animals are our friends and deserve care. These acts of love help build compassion and empathy from a young age.
The festival also teaches the value of family unity. Through Bhai Tika, children understand the beauty of sibling love and support. Lighting diyas and cleaning homes together remind kids that teamwork makes celebrations even more joyful. Helping elders and sharing food strengthen family bonds.
Most importantly, Tihar encourages gratitude and positivity. It tells children that true happiness comes from giving, not just receiving. Whether it’s sharing sweets with friends or feeding animals, every act of kindness spreads light — the real meaning of the Festival of Lights.
19. Tihar in Modern Times: Blending Tradition and Fun
Today, Tihar is celebrated with a mix of old traditions and modern ideas. While people still light diyas and perform puja, they also add new ways to enjoy the festival. Homes now sparkle with both oil lamps and colorful LED lights. Many families share their celebrations online, sending digital Tihar wishes to relatives living far away.
Modern celebrations also include creative activities like Tihar-themed photo booths, musical nights, and neighborhood competitions for the best decoration. Kids enjoy wearing traditional clothes and clicking pictures with their families. Even schools organize small Tihar programs to teach students about its cultural importance in a fun way.
This mix of old and new keeps Tihar exciting for everyone. It shows that traditions can grow with time while keeping their meaning alive. The combination of devotion, creativity, and togetherness makes Tihar 2025 a perfect example of how Nepal’s culture continues to shine — bright and full of love.
20. Conclusion: Celebrating Light, Love, and Family Unity
Tihar 2025 will once again bring families, friends, and neighbors together in joy and harmony. It’s a festival that lights up not just homes, but hearts. Every diya, song, and smile reminds people of the importance of love, respect, and gratitude. From feeding crows to celebrating Bhai Tika, each ritual carries a beautiful message of kindness.
For children, Tihar is a time to learn and play — a mix of tradition and fun. They discover the meaning of unity, caring for nature, and being thankful for what they have. The festival becomes a classroom of values that last a lifetime.
As Nepal glows with lights and laughter, Tihar continues to spread its message — that true happiness shines brightest when shared. So, in 2025, let’s celebrate Tihar with love, eco-friendly joy, and family togetherness, making it a festival of peace, prosperity, and pure light for all.
Tihar is more than just a festival; it is a celebration of values, traditions, and togetherness that define Nepali culture. It teaches respect for animals, reverence for nature, and gratitude toward family and community. The festival’s rituals, such as worshipping crows, dogs, cows, and Laxmi, carry deep symbolic meanings that highlight the importance of compassion, prosperity, and good fortune.
Bhai Tika, the day dedicated to siblings, strengthens family ties and ensures that love and care continue across generations. Beyond religious significance, Tihar promotes joy, unity, and creativity, as seen in colorful decorations, rangoli patterns, and music. For children, it is a festival of wonder, laughter, and excitement, making cultural learning fun and memorable. The lights, sweets, and songs create lasting memories, uniting communities in celebration.
Tihar reminds everyone of the importance of sharing, caring, and respecting traditions while embracing the happiness of life. It bridges generations, strengthens social bonds, and creates an environment of warmth and love. Truly, Tihar is special because it embodies the essence of Nepalese culture—joyful, colorful, and deeply meaningful—making it a festival that is celebrated with pride, devotion, and endless happiness.
