The Untold Story of the Tihar Festival

Every year, something unusual occurs during the Tihar festival in Nepal. The five-day festival transpires yearly around mid-October to mid-November, celebrating with bright colors and lights. While the festival is primarily centered on honoring the god of death, Yumaraj, there is something unique about the first four days.

The first four days are celebrated by honoring and pleasing an animal for their representation with Yumaraj. Commencing on the first day of the festival. Crows are honored with being the informant for Yumaraj. During the second day, dogs are treated with respect and kindness for being the agents of Yamraj. On the third day, cows are offered prayers and food for their representation of the Goddess Laxmi. Finally, on the fourth day, oxen are appreciated for being the draft animals.

If we take a look back throughout the festival, one day sticks out, and that is the second day. Specifically, to please Yamaraj, treating dogs with respect and kindness is the yearly tradition. Something even more special to brighten the day is that it does not matter where the dog comes from. The dog can be a pet, a stray, or a working dog. Yet, every single one gets the same amount of love and care. They are all equally important in the celebration.

If you are wondering, what do they do to celebrate these dogs? Here is your answer! Dogs become draped in marigolds across the nation. Additionally, they get marked with vermilion pigments and, of course, an abundant amount of food and treats. Particularly at the Armed Police Force canine center in Kathmandu, dogs were presented with these things more formally. They are seated in front of their handlers, waiting patiently to retrieve their wondrous gifts.

These animals are treated as so much more than just themselves. They play a humongous role in this holiday, and it is so heartwarming to see how animals can be so appreciated. (Written on November 16, 2024)