KATHMANDU: The Nepal Panchang Nirnayak Bikash Samiti has announced the most auspicious time for Bhai Tika this year. According to committee chairman Prof. Shambhu Prasad Dhakal, the ideal moment falls on Thursday, October 23, at 11:39 a.m.
“While the head of state should observe the auspicious muhurat precisely, the general public can safely apply tika during the afternoon,” said committee member Prof. Devmani Bhattarai.
This year, Yam Panchak begins on Saturday, October 18, marked by the traditional offering of Yamdeep Daan. Other festivals during this period include Dhanteras and Kag Tihar on October 19; Dhanvantari Jayanti, Kukur Tihar, and Laxmi Puja on October 20; and Go, Goru, and Aatma (Mha) Puja on October 22, all observed according to Vedic and Panchang guidelines.
The committee also confirmed that Nepal Sambat New Year 1146 will be celebrated on October 22, coinciding with the evening observance of Aatma (Mha) Puja.
Following classical rituals, Bhai Tika (known as Kija Puja in Newar tradition) will be observed on Thursday, October 23, with the auspicious window lasting until 7:04 a.m. on November 18. In keeping with Vedic prescriptions, eldest siblings traditionally apply tika first.
The annual Yam Panchak festival spans from Kartik Krishna Trayodashi to Kartik Shukla Dwitiya. During this time, families perform Yamdeep Daan, offering lamps to Yamaraj to seek protection and blessings. During Kag and Kukur Tihar, sweets are offered to crows and dogs—considered messengers of Yamaraj—in accordance with Vedic customs.
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