10/30/2024
Today is the Nepali celebration of Kukur Tihar, dedicated to the love and friendship of dogs.
Tihar is a five-day Hindu religious and cultural festival in Nepal. The first three days (October 29th to 31th in 2024) focus on the worship of animals. In Nepali culture, it is believed that gratitude and worship shown to animals and gods will bring success and luck into people's lives.
The second day, Kukur Tihar, is for the worship of dogs, who are believed to be the guardians of the gates of heaven in Nepal. On this day, people thank all dogs, whether they are pets or strays, for their loyalty and friendship by placing a marigold garland around their necks and a red tika mark on their foreheads. Afterward, a ritual is performed for the dogs and they are treated to a large feast.