Tihar Festival 2025 Begins with Kaag Tihar – Nepal’s Festival of Lights and Harmony

KATHMANDU, Oct 18 – The Tihar Festival 2025 in Nepal, also known as Yama Panchak, officially begins today with the celebration of Kaag Tihar, marking the start of the country’s second-largest Hindu festival.

On the first day of Tihar, Kaag Tihar, people feed crows — considered the messengers of good and bad news in Nepali culture. This ritual symbolizes respect for nature and communication between humans and divine forces.

The five-day Tihar festival in Nepal carries deep cultural and spiritual significance.

The second day, Kukur Tihar, honors dogs for their loyalty and protection.

The third day, Gai Tihar and Laxmi Puja, involves the worship of cows and Goddess Laxmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity.

The fourth day, Gobardhan Puja, is dedicated to oxen, symbolizing hard work and agricultural importance. The Newar community, however, observes this day as Mha Puja, the ritual of self-purification and soul worship.

The fifth and final day, Bhai Tika, celebrates the sacred bond between brothers and sisters. This year, the auspicious Bhai Tika time is set for 11:39 AM on October 23, as per the Nepal Calendar Fixation Committee.

Widely recognized as the festival of lights in Nepal, Tihar transforms homes and streets with colorful lights, diyos (oil lamps), and flower decorations. Families prepare and share traditional Nepali foods such as sel roti, sweets, and homemade delicacies.

The festival also highlights Nepal’s rich cultural traditions through Deusi-Bhailo songs and dances, performed by groups of youths visiting homes in the evening to exchange blessings, music, and joy.

Tihar 2025 not only celebrates light over darkness but also promotes unity, gratitude, and respect for all living beings, making it one of the most cherished festivals in Nepal.