Tihar (also known as Deepawali and Yamapanchak) is a five-day Hindu festival celebrated in Nepal and in the Indian regions of Sikkim and Gorkhaland (particularly the towns of Darjeeling and Kalimpong), which are home to a large number of ethnic Nepali Indians. The festival forms a part of the Diwali celebrations.
The fifth and last day of Tihar is known as Bhai Tika or Kija Puja in Nepal Bhasa. This final day, celebrated with great fanfare across the country, marks the special bond between brothers and sisters through a mutual worship.
Brothers receive tika from their sisters, signifying the main day of Tihar, the second biggest festival for Nepali Hindus.
On the fifth day of Tihar, also known as Yamapanchak, sisters wish their brothers long life, health, and prosperity with respect, faith, and loyalty by applying Pancharangi or Saptarangi tika, following age-old traditions.
After sisters apply tika on their brothers’ foreheads, brothers do the same for their sisters.
It is widely believed that worshiping one’s sisters leads to good luck and prosperity. Although Bhaitika can be observed throughout the day, both brothers and sisters exchange gifts and enjoy delicious food.
However, Bhai Tika is not just about fun; it’s about cooperation and maintaining the strong bond between brothers and sisters. It is a celebration that strengthens the brother-sister relationship through this festival.
happy Dipawali!
paljon kiitoksia rakas