KATHMANDU: The last day of the five-day-long Tihar festival, known as Bhai Tika, is being celebrated across the country today, Wednesday.
On this day, sisters offer colorful tika to their brothers, extending wishes for their happiness, prosperity, and longevity. In return, brothers present gifts to their sisters and convey good luck.
During Bhai Tika, brothers are positioned at a specially anointed place, encircled by a trail of mustard oil drawn by their sisters, and adorned with garlands made of various flowers, including marigold and globe amaranth (makhamali).
Additionally, brothers reciprocate by offering tika to their sisters. Similarly, sisters treat their brothers to a special and delicious assortment of sweets, walnuts, and sel roti.
The National Calendar Determination Committee has specified that the auspicious hour for offering tika this year is 10:51 AM.
However, the committee added that tika can be offered throughout the day.
The mythological and cultural belief behind Bhai Tika is rooted in the idea that a sister has obtained a boon from Yama, the god of death, ensuring her brother’s immortality until the mustard oil dries up and the garland of dubo and makhamali withers.
On this occasion, those without biological brothers or sisters receive tika from individuals they consider as their brothers and sisters.
Meanwhile, the Balgopaleshwor Temple in Ranipokhari, Kathmandu, is open today as it is every year on this day.
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