Tihar, A Festival Of Lights

The Nepali festival of Tihar results in the union of family members and relatives, and animals too are a central part of this union

- Shreejana Rai

Assam is home to an array of communities. Significant among them is the Nepali community. Tihar or Deepawali is one of the most important festivals of the Nepalis celebrated in late autumn in a variety of ways. The festival represents the divine relationship of humans with animals.

Tihar, the festival of lights, is a five-day-long Hindu festival celebrated by the Nepalis with great zeal. Love manifests itself not just in the people but percolates to animals as well, an attempt is made to understand and respect the intimate relationship shared between them.

Revering our Non-Human Friends

The first day of Tihar is called Kag Tihar, where crows (Kag) are offered food in the morning. Known as the messengers of death and the carriers of grief, people leave a variety of food items for the crows to eat as a sign of worship in order to bring good luck to the house.

The second day is called Kukur Tihar. Kukur meaning a Dog is believed to be able to see the upcoming dangers and death. They are worshipped with a Tika or Tilaka on their foreheads, and are offered different types of food including the traditional Sel roti. A flower garland is put around their neck too.