Today marks the pinnacle of Tihar, the second-largest festival in Nepal.
On the auspicious occasion of Yamapanchak, or the fifth day of Tihar, sisters across the country celebrate the sisterhood festival by adorning their brothers with vibrant five-colored or seven-colored tika, symbolizing their wishes for long life, health, and wealth.
Tihar, a festival celebrated annually during Kartik Shukla Dwitiya, reaches its zenith today as brothers receive tika from their sisters. The day is also known as Yamadvitiya, reflecting the cultural and historical significance embedded in Nepali traditions.
As part of the age-old belief system, sisters offer tika to their brothers, and in return, brothers reciprocate the gesture. Professor Dr. Devmani Bhattarai, a theologian and member of the Nepal Calendar Determination Committee, highlights the classical belief that worshiping one’s sisters brings good fortune and prosperity.
“Amidst a tika-friendly atmosphere, the optimal time for Bhaitika’s Tika is at 10:51 am,” emphasizes Professor Srikrishna Adhikari, Chairman of the Committee. While there is no restriction on wearing the tika throughout the day, seeking the auspicious time during Abhijit Muhurta enhances the significance of the ritual.
The Committee advises sisters married to brothers to face west, while brothers married to sisters should orient themselves to the east. Aligning with this tradition ensures that the North Moon in Scorpio falls on the right side, a classical rule for auspicious deeds.
On this day of Lakshmi Puja, various deities, including Markandeya, Ashwatthama, Bali, Vyasa, Hanuman, Vibhishan, Kripacharya, and Parashuram, are worshipped as Chiranjeevi.
While the tradition suggests seven-colored tika for Tihar, the classical belief mentions five essential colors: red, white, yellow, green, and blue.
Following the tika ceremony, sisters express their affection by offering a variety of foods, such as walnuts, katus, spices, and ‘selroti’, while brothers reciprocate with clothing and dakshina, symbolizing good luck and mutual respect.
Tihar is a colorful and beloved holiday that combines religious and social customs, showcasing the rich fabric of Nepali culture.