KATHMANDU, Nov 11: Hindus across Nepal celebrated Bhai Tika on Wednesday, marking the conclusion of the five-day Deepawali festival with traditional ceremonies dedicated to strengthening the bond between brothers and sisters.
On the occasion, sisters performed special rituals for their brothers, praying for their good health, happiness, prosperity and long life. The celebrations featured the exchange of blessings, gifts and festive delicacies, reflecting the importance of family relationships in Nepali culture.
Bhai Tika, also known as Yama Panchak, is observed by applying a special mixture of vermilion, rice and curd on brothers’ foreheads. Sisters also place garlands around their brothers’ necks and offer them sweets, fruits and other traditional dishes. In return, brothers express their affection by presenting gifts or cash to their sisters.
The festival marks the final day of Deepawali, which begins with rituals involving the worship and feeding of crows, followed by dogs and cows, before devotees worship Goddess Laxmi. The celebrations culminate in Bhai Tika, highlighting the affection and mutual responsibilities shared by siblings.
In his message on the occasion, Prime Minister Balendra Shah emphasised the importance of traditional festivals in strengthening social relationships and promoting harmony among communities.
He said such celebrations encourage people to rise above differences and contribute towards building a society based on unity, tolerance and mutual understanding.
Shah also noted that Bhai Tika reinforces the values of love, affection and respect between brothers and sisters, helping strengthen family relationships and togetherness.
Referring to the religious significance of the festival, the prime minister recalled the Hindu mythological story associated with Yamaraj and his sister Yamuna.
According to the legend, Yamaraj, the god of death, visited his sister Yamuna’s home in Kartik after receiving her invitation. Yamuna welcomed him with traditional ceremonies and applied tika on his forehead as a mark of affection and respect.
The popular belief surrounding the tradition holds that brothers who receive tika and blessings from their sisters on this auspicious day are granted longevity, good health and prosperity.
The observance continues to hold a special place in Nepal’s cultural and religious traditions, celebrating sibling affection while passing customs and values from one generation to another.