KATHMANDU: Prime Minister Balendra Shah (Balen) has expressed hope that the Tihar festival will inspire people to uphold truth, justice and honesty and remain committed to good governance and people-centred development.
In his festive greetings to the people on the occasion of Tihar, Prime Minister Shah highlighted the religious, cultural and social significance of the five-day festival, urging people to draw inspiration from its values and traditions.
On the first day of Yama Panchak, marked as Kaag Tihar, on Saturday, Prime Minister Shah shared his message through social media, recalling the tradition of worshipping crows, which are regarded in Hindu mythology as messengers of Yamaraj, the god of death and justice.
He noted the custom of offering sweet food to crows and saying ‘Shubha Bol, Shubha Bol’ (speak auspicious) when they caw in the courtyard, reflecting the traditional belief that their calls bring news or signal the arrival of guests.
He also highlighted the tradition of offering “Yama Deep” (sacred lamp) in the name of family members, explaining the cultural understanding of Yamaraj not merely as a symbol of fear but also as an embodiment of justice who punishes wrongdoing and protects those who follow the path of righteousness.
On the occasion of Dhanvantari Jayanti, which also falls on Saturday, the Prime Minister extended his wishes for good health and well-being to all, remembering Lord Dhanwantari, regarded as the originator of Ayurveda and the deity of health.
Similarly, referring to Kukur Tihar, which falls on Sunday, Shah highlighted the tradition of worshipping dogs as faithful companions of human beings. He acknowledged their contributions, ranging from guarding homes to supporting search, rescue and research operations, saying the festival reflects humanity’s love and gratitude towards animals.
He expressed hope that the celebration would further strengthen coexistence and harmony between humans and other living beings.
Concluding his message, the Prime Minister said the festivals should inspire people to remain committed to truth, justice and honesty and work towards building good governance and a people-oriented society.
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