KATHMANDU: Today marks Kaag Tihar, the first day of the five-day-long Tihar festival, celebrated across Nepal with reverence and joy.
This day is dedicated to crows, regarded in Hindu tradition as the messengers of Yamaraj, the god of death and justice. Devotees offer food—especially rice pudding—to crows in the belief that doing so conveys positive messages to Yamaraj, seeking protection from untimely death and misfortune.
Special worship ceremonies are being held at Kageshwari Mahadev Temple in Kageshwari Manohara Municipality to mark the occasion. Rituals honoring crows are also being conducted at the Kageshwari Temple in Hanumandhoka.
The Tihar festival is deeply rooted in the belief that Yamaraj punishes those who engage in evil deeds, while Dharmaraj safeguards those who follow the path of righteousness.
Meanwhile, Dhanteras—the festival observed by purchasing gold, silver, or copper utensils to appease Goddess Lakshmi—was celebrated yesterday (Tuesday), marking the traditional prelude to Tihar.
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