Tihar - तिहार - Nepali Date Today

Tihar, also known as Deepavali or Diwali, is a five-day-long Hindu festival that is celebrated in Nepal and India. It is also known as the "Festival of Lights" and is the second biggest festival in Nepal after Dashain. The festival is celebrated in the month of Kartik (October/November) according to the Hindu calendar.

During the five days of Tihar, each day has a different significance and is celebrated with different traditions and rituals. The first day is known as Kag Tihar, which is dedicated to crows. On this day, people offer food to crows and worship them, as they are believed to be messengers of the god of death, Yama.

The second day is Kukur Tihar, which is dedicated to dogs. People offer garlands made of marigold flowers and apply a tika (a mixture of rice, vermillion and yogurt) on the forehead of dogs, which are believed to be the protectors of the home and faithful friends of humans.

The third day is Gai Tihar or Laxmi Puja, dedicated to cows and goddess Laxmi. Cows are decorated with garlands and are worshipped as they are believed to be the incarnation of the mother goddess. Goddess Laxmi, the goddess of wealth, is also worshipped on this day by lighting up the house with candles, diyas, and electric lights.

The fourth day is Govardhan Puja, which is dedicated to Lord Krishna and his victory over Lord Indra. People make a mountain of cow dung to commemorate Lord Krishna's victory over Lord Indra and offer prayers to Lord Krishna.

The fifth and final day is Bhai Tika, which is dedicated to the bond between brothers and sisters. On this day, sisters offer tika to their brothers and pray for their long and prosperous life. Brothers, in turn, give gifts and blessings to their sisters.

Overall, Tihar is a celebration of the bond between humans and animals, and the triumph of good over evil. The festival is celebrated with joy and enthusiasm, with people lighting up their homes and streets with colorful lights and decorations.