Saturday 7th September 2024
Nepal observes the fifth day of the Tihar celebrations – Bhai Tika. Today, sisters will offer tika to their brothers.
The tika is symbolic of a sister’s wish for her brother’s happiness, long life and prosperity. In return, brothers pledge to protect their sisters from all kinds of adversities.
The auspicious time for offering tika this year is 11:55 AM and will continue until sunset today, said National Calendar Determination Committee Professor Dr Ramchandra Gautam.
As part of the customs for this day, brothers receive tika from their sisters in a special setup surrounded by mustard oil. Besides the tika, sisters also offer Dubo and Makhamali garlands, sweets, dry fruits, spices and Sel – a special Nepali bread cooked in oil.
According to legend, a sister had a won a boon from Lord Yamaraj – the God of Death that her brother would not die until the mustard oil dries up and the Dubo and Makhamali garlands wither away.
Bhai Tika is celebrated with much fervor in Nepal. Even people who do not have their own siblings perform the tradition with people whom they look up to as sisters and brothers.
Nepali Sansar wishes its readers a Happy Bhai Tika!
