Tihar, also known as the festival of lights, is one of the most colorful and joyful celebrations in Nepal. Beyond the dazzling lights, decorative rangoli, and delicious treats, music plays a central role in making Tihar special. From traditional songs to lively beats of drums, music fills every home and street with excitement. Children and adults alike enjoy singing songs, dancing, and clapping along to rhythms that echo the festive spirit.
The songs of Tihar are not just melodies; they carry happiness, unity, and a sense of togetherness. Families gather in courtyards, friends meet in open spaces, and neighbors exchange laughter and tunes. The sound of singing groups, especially during the popular Deusi-Bhailo tradition, spreads joy across villages and towns. Music becomes a bridge connecting generations, where elders enjoy familiar tunes while children add fresh energy with their cheerful voices.
Whether it is the jingling of instruments, the hum of folk songs, or the playful singing of kids, music makes every moment of Tihar magical. It inspires smiles, encourages movement, and turns ordinary days into unforgettable celebrations filled with joy, harmony, and laughter.
1. Introduction to Tihar: The Festival of Lights
Tihar, also called the Festival of Lights, is one of the most colorful and joyful festivals in Nepal. It is celebrated for five days and honors different animals, gods, and family members. People decorate their homes with candles, oil lamps, and colorful patterns called rangoli. The streets are full of light, happiness, and laughter.
During Tihar, families come together to celebrate love, respect, and gratitude. It is a time when children play with sparklers, neighbors share sweets, and everyone enjoys the beauty of the lights. Tihar also teaches values like kindness, caring for animals, and respecting elders. Each day has a special meaning, making the festival fun and meaningful for everyone.
Music and dance are an important part of Tihar. Songs are sung, drums are played, and people perform lively dances. This creates a cheerful atmosphere that everyone enjoys. Tihar is not only a festival of lights but also a celebration of life, joy, and togetherness. It reminds us to be happy, thankful, and kind to others.
2. The Significance of Music in Tihar Celebrations
Music plays a very important role in Tihar. From early morning to night, homes and streets are filled with singing and dancing. Traditional songs are sung to honor gods, sisters, brothers, and neighbors. Music helps people express joy, love, and thankfulness during the festival.
Children, adults, and even elders join in musical celebrations. Families prepare songs in advance, and groups of friends perform together in neighborhoods. Singing and dancing during Tihar strengthens bonds between family and community members. The tunes are often lively, making everyone want to clap, dance, and sing along.
Music also has a spiritual meaning during Tihar. Certain songs are sung to invite good luck, wealth, and happiness into homes. Drums, cymbals, and other instruments create rhythms that energize the celebrations. With music, Tihar becomes a festival that excites everyone, from young kids to grandparents, filling the air with smiles, laughter, and harmony.
3. Traditional Drums and Instruments of Tihar
Drums are one of the most popular instruments during Tihar. They produce loud, happy sounds that make people dance and sing. Traditional Nepali drums like the madal are played in groups during celebrations. Each beat adds excitement and energy to the festival.
Besides drums, people also use cymbals, bells, and flutes. These instruments make Tihar music rich and colorful. Families often gather around these instruments to play together, making every celebration lively. Drums are especially important during Deusi-Bhailo, when groups go house to house singing and performing dances.
Learning to play drums is fun for children. Many kids enjoy tapping rhythms and joining the performances with their friends. Drums bring people together, create festive energy, and make Tihar memorable. They show how music can unite everyone in happiness and celebration.
4. The Role of Folk Songs in Nepali Culture
Folk songs are a very special part of Nepali culture, especially during Tihar. These songs tell stories about nature, family, gods, and traditions. Singing folk songs during Tihar keeps the culture alive and helps children learn about their heritage.
During Tihar, people perform folk songs in groups, often accompanied by drums and cymbals. Songs like Deusi and Bhailo are sung to honor brothers and sisters. Neighbors enjoy the performances, and children feel proud when they join in the singing. Folk songs make celebrations lively, cheerful, and full of energy.
Folk music also teaches values like kindness, respect, and gratitude. Through lyrics and rhythms, people are reminded to care for each other, their community, and animals. Folk songs are more than just music—they are a way of connecting hearts and spreading happiness during Tihar.
5. Preparing for Tihar with Musical Rituals
Before Tihar begins, families start preparing in many ways, and music is a big part of it. People clean their homes, make colorful rangoli designs, and get musical instruments ready. Drums, cymbals, and flutes are polished so they sound perfect during celebrations.
Music is also part of spiritual preparations. Certain songs are sung to welcome goddess Laxmi, the goddess of wealth, and to invite happiness into homes. Families may practice songs and dances together, making the festival even more special. Children often learn simple songs and join in with small drums or clapping.
Preparing with music makes everyone excited for the festival. It also teaches children about teamwork and the joy of celebrating together. By practicing songs and rhythms, families feel connected, and the festival begins with energy, love, and happiness even before the first day of Tihar arrives.
6. Deusi-Bhailo: Singing and Dancing in Harmony
Deusi-Bhailo is one of the most fun parts of Tihar. Groups of children and adults go from house to house singing songs and performing dances. They carry drums, cymbals, and other instruments, making the celebration lively.
During Deusi-Bhailo, singers often ask for blessings, sweets, and small gifts. Everyone joins in the fun by clapping or dancing along. It is a joyful way to bring neighbors and communities together, creating laughter and excitement in every street.
Deusi-Bhailo also teaches kids about tradition. By singing folk songs and performing dances, they learn about cultural values, respect, and teamwork. It is a festival activity that spreads happiness and keeps Nepali traditions alive while involving everyone in the celebration.
7. How Drumming Brings Communities Together
Drumming is more than just making music during Tihar; it brings communities together. When people play drums in groups, the sound fills the streets and signals the start of celebrations. Neighbors come out of their homes to watch, listen, and join the fun.
Children often play small drums with friends, creating rhythms that match the bigger drums. Families may compete in friendly drum performances, making the festival exciting and lively. Drumming unites people of all ages and brings smiles to everyone.
Besides fun, drumming has a social role. It reminds people of teamwork and community spirit. During Tihar, the shared joy of music strengthens bonds between neighbors, friends, and family members, making the festival a truly collective celebration.
8. Children’s Role in Tihar Music Traditions
Children play an important role in Tihar celebrations. They carry small drums, sing songs, and dance with friends. Their laughter and energy add fun and excitement to the festival. Kids often practice songs in schools or with family before going out for Deusi-Bhailo.
Participating in music traditions helps children learn about Nepali culture. They understand folk songs, the meaning behind rituals, and how to respect elders. It is also a way for them to connect with other kids in the community while enjoying the festival.
Tihar gives children a chance to be creative. They decorate instruments, try new songs, and invent simple dance steps. By taking part in music and drumming, kids feel proud and happy, and the festival becomes colorful, lively, and full of joy for everyone.
9. Modern Twists: Mixing Traditional and Contemporary Music
In recent years, Tihar celebrations have become more colorful with modern music. While traditional songs and drums are still important, people now add new tunes, instruments, and even recorded music. This mix of old and new makes the festival exciting for everyone.
Many young people enjoy blending folk songs with pop or electronic beats. Schools and communities sometimes organize performances with both traditional drums and modern instruments. This helps children learn about their culture while enjoying music they hear on phones or radios.
Combining traditional and contemporary music keeps Tihar lively and fresh. It allows older generations to share heritage while younger ones bring new energy. The festival becomes a place where everyone, from kids to grandparents, can enjoy music together, laugh, and dance without limits.
10. Laxmi Puja and Musical Offerings
Laxmi Puja is a special day in Tihar dedicated to goddess Laxmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. On this day, families clean their homes, decorate them with lamps, and sing devotional songs. Music is offered as a form of respect and prayer.
Drums, bells, and cymbals are often played during puja to create a joyful and sacred atmosphere. Singing traditional songs invites blessings for the household. Children sometimes join by clapping hands or playing small instruments, making the rituals lively and meaningful.
Music during Laxmi Puja is not only for fun but also spiritual. It helps create a positive and peaceful environment. Singing together with family strengthens bonds, brings happiness, and fills homes with light, love, and harmony.
11. Rangoli and Dance: The Visual Rhythm of Tihar
Rangoli, colorful patterns made on floors, is a beautiful part of Tihar. People often dance around these patterns while singing and playing instruments. The combination of colors, lights, and rhythms creates a magical feeling during the festival.
Children love helping to make rangoli and then moving to the beats of drums and folk songs. Families often perform small dances together, celebrating creativity and joy. The visual appeal of rangoli adds excitement to every song and dance performance.
Dancing around rangoli is also a way to teach kids teamwork and culture. Everyone joins in, claps, sings, and enjoys. The visual and musical combination makes Tihar a feast for the eyes and ears, creating unforgettable memories for all ages.
12. Night-time Celebrations with Lights and Beats
Night-time is the most exciting part of Tihar. Streets and homes glow with lamps and candles, and music fills the air. People play drums, sing songs, and dance under the twinkling lights, making every moment magical.
Children enjoy sparklers while joining families in musical performances. Deusi-Bhailo continues late into the evening, with groups moving from house to house, spreading joy and laughter. The night brings a sense of togetherness that everyone loves.
Music at night adds energy and happiness to the festival. Drums, cymbals, and songs create rhythms that light up hearts. Night-time Tihar celebrations remind everyone of the joy of life, the importance of family, and the beauty of traditions passed from generation to generation.
13. The Joy of Street Performances During Tihar
Street performances are a highlight of Tihar. Groups of singers and dancers roam neighborhoods, performing lively songs and dances. Drums, cymbals, and other instruments make the performances fun and exciting for everyone watching.
Children love watching and sometimes joining the performers. Neighbors come out of their homes to enjoy the music, clap along, and give small treats to the performers. These street performances create a sense of community and happiness, as everyone enjoys the festival together.
Performing in streets also teaches children courage and teamwork. They learn how to sing in groups, dance together, and respect their audience. Tihar street performances are a joyful way to celebrate culture, music, and friendship, filling every lane with light and laughter.
14. Tihar Melodies in Temples and Homes
Music is not only for fun; it is also part of spiritual celebrations during Tihar. Temples and homes are filled with melodies to honor gods, especially Laxmi, the goddess of wealth. Singing songs and playing instruments invite blessings for happiness and prosperity.
Families often sing together at home while decorating for the festival. Children learn special songs and rhythms to participate in the rituals. Playing traditional instruments like the madal or clapping hands adds energy and joy to these musical prayers.
Tihar melodies help connect people to their culture and beliefs. They create a peaceful and joyful atmosphere, reminding everyone of the importance of family, respect, and gratitude. Music in homes and temples turns Tihar into a festival of heart, mind, and soul.
15. Musical Games and Fun Activities for Families
Tihar is not only about rituals; it is also a time for games and fun. Musical games are very popular among families and children. People sing songs while playing “pass the drum” or dancing in a circle, adding laughter and excitement to the festival.
These games teach children coordination, rhythm, and teamwork. Families often make competitions friendly, encouraging everyone to participate. Drumming, clapping, and singing together make the festival lively and enjoyable for kids and adults alike.
Musical games also strengthen family bonds. They allow parents, children, and grandparents to play, laugh, and enjoy the festival together. This mix of fun and music is a perfect way to celebrate Tihar while keeping traditions alive in a playful and happy way.
16. Preparing Traditional Drums: Materials and Craft
Traditional drums, like the madal, are important in Tihar celebrations. These drums are often handmade using wood, leather, and string. Making a drum can be a fun family activity before the festival begins.
Children can watch how drums are shaped, stretched, and tuned. Some families even let kids try simple drum-making steps, teaching them the importance of instruments in cultural celebrations. It also gives them a sense of pride when they play a drum they helped prepare.
Preparing drums brings families closer. It teaches patience, care, and creativity. Once the drums are ready, they are used in Deusi-Bhailo, dances, and musical prayers, making Tihar full of rhythm, joy, and unforgettable memories.
17. Famous Folk Songs Sung During Tihar
Folk songs are a special part of Tihar celebrations. Songs like Deusi and Bhailo are sung to honor brothers, sisters, and neighbors. These songs are cheerful, easy to learn, and full of positive messages about love, respect, and togetherness.
Children often join in singing these songs with drums, cymbals, and clapping hands. Families practice these songs before going house to house during Deusi-Bhailo. Everyone enjoys the melodies, which bring joy and laughter to both performers and listeners.
Folk songs also keep Nepali culture alive. Through music, children learn about traditions, history, and the importance of kindness. Singing these songs makes Tihar colorful, lively, and memorable, connecting generations through the beauty of Nepali music.
18. Tihar Music as a Cultural Heritage
Music during Tihar is more than entertainment; it is an important part of Nepali cultural heritage. Songs, drums, and dances have been passed down from generation to generation, keeping traditions alive.
Families teach children how to sing traditional songs and play instruments like the madal. This helps children understand their roots while having fun. Music also strengthens bonds between neighbors and communities during the festival.
Celebrating Tihar with music ensures that Nepali heritage continues to thrive. It allows people to feel proud of their culture while spreading happiness and joy. Music is the heart of Tihar, uniting everyone in a festive spirit.
19. Capturing the Festivity: Photography and Videos
People love to capture Tihar celebrations through photos and videos. Children playing drums, singing songs, and dancing in colorful clothes make perfect memories. Recording these moments allows families to relive the joy of the festival.
Photography also helps share Tihar with friends and relatives who cannot attend. Videos of Deusi-Bhailo or night-time celebrations with lights and music bring smiles to everyone watching. It is a fun way to celebrate traditions digitally.
Capturing Tihar encourages creativity. Kids can learn about storytelling through photos, videos, and songs. Sharing these festive memories helps pass traditions to the next generation, making music and celebration a living, joyful heritage.
20. Conclusion: Celebrating Tihar Through Music and Lively Traditions
Tihar is a festival full of light, joy, and music. Drums, folk songs, and dances bring families and communities together. Children learn traditions while having fun, and everyone feels happy and connected.
The festival combines spirituality, culture, and celebration. From Laxmi Puja to Deusi-Bhailo, music and drums make every activity lively. Singing songs, dancing, and playing instruments create happiness that fills homes and streets alike.
By celebrating Tihar with music and lively traditions, Nepali families preserve their culture while spreading joy. It is a festival that teaches kindness, togetherness, and the love of life. Music truly makes Tihar a magical and unforgettable experience for all.
Music and fun are the heart of Tihar, creating a lively atmosphere that unites everyone in celebration. The songs, drums, and playful melodies of the festival bring joy not only to those who perform them but also to everyone who listens. Through music, Tihar becomes more than a festival of lights; it transforms into a festival of happiness, friendship, and togetherness. Children’s laughter and their eager participation in singing and dancing add a special charm to the celebrations.
Traditional songs connect people to their culture, while playful tunes keep the spirit fresh and lively. Music during Tihar teaches us the importance of sharing joy, respecting traditions, and celebrating life with enthusiasm. The vibrant sounds of drums, flutes, and voices echo through streets and homes, reminding everyone that happiness grows when shared.
Even after the lamps are extinguished and the decorations are packed away, the memories of songs, laughter, and dance remain in hearts. Music leaves a lasting impression, making Tihar not just a visual festival, but a melodic experience full of warmth, cheer, and fun. Truly, the harmony of music and festivity is what makes Tihar unforgettable for all generations.
