Tihar begins with worship of crow

Kathmandu, Nov 11: Tihar, the festival of lights, is beginning from today. The second biggest festival of Hindu people behind Dashain falls on Kartik Krishna Trayodashi ever year. Also known as Yam Panchak, the first day is observed as Kaag Tihar by feeding crows, regarded as messenger in Nepali society.

According to the Nepal Panchanga Nirnayak Samiti (Calendar Determination Committee), Yamadip donation should begin from today evening as today is Kartik Krishna Trayodashi. There is a religious belief that donating Yamadip today makes oneself become free of tortures by Yamaraj, the lord of hell and death. Dhanwantari Jayanti and Dhanteras are also observed today itself.

The second day is Kukur Tihar-the day is observed worshipping dogs. Interestingly this year, on Sunday, the second day of Tihar, Kukur Tihar and Laxmi Puja are observed due to the alternation in dates, said the Committee. On Laxmi Puja, Laxmi, goddess of wealth, fortune, power, beauty, fertility and prosperity, is worshipped. Kukur Tihar is also called Narak Chaturdashi.

People take holy dips in rivers and ponds at sunrise on this day in observance of the Narak Chaturdashi. After taking the holy bath, devotees light what is known as the Yamadeep facing it southwards. On Monday, Gai Puja (worship of cow) will take place. Similarly, Goru Puja (worship of ox), Haltihar, Gobardhan Puja, Bali Puja and Maha Puja will be observed on Tuesday.

On Wednesday, Bhai Tika is celebrated. This year, the auspicious time for offering and receiving Bhai Tika is fixed at 10:51 am, said the Committee. However, people can receive and offer Bhai Tika throughout the day until evening, it added.