As Nepal’s streets light up for Diwali, a special celebration called Kukur Tihar adds a heartfelt dimension to the Festival of Lights. Falling on the second day of Nepal’s five-day Tihar festival, Kukur Tihar uniquely honours dogs as sacred beings, representing loyalty, protection, and companionship. This celebration extends love and respect to all dogs -pets and strays alike, highlighting their importance in cultural and everyday life.
Why is Kukur Tihar celebrated?
The roots of Kukur Tihar run deep in Hindu mythology. According to the ancient epic, Mahabharata, Yudhishtir, the eldest Pandava, embarked on his journey to heaven accompanied only by his loyal dog. His devotion to his canine companion was so profound that he refused entry into heaven if it meant abandoning the dog, underscoring the revered place dogs hold in human life. Another key figure, Bhairava, an incarnation of Lord Shiva, is often depicted with a dog, symbolizing divine loyalty and protection.
What is the meaning of Kukur?
In Nepal, dogs, known as kukur, are believed to be messengers of Yama, the god of death, able to detect danger and evil spirits. For this reason, they’re revered during Bhoot Chaturdashi, which falls just before Tihar, adding another layer of cultural reverence to the festival.
How is Kukur Tihar Celebrated?
On the day of Kukur Tihar, people across Nepal, from urban centers to rural villages, express their gratitude to dogs. Stray dogs and pets alike are adorned with colorful flower garlands, symbolizing the importance of their role in protecting and accompanying humans. A special mark called tika, made from red powder, rice, and yoghurt, is applied to their foreheads, signifying honour and blessing. These ceremonies often include prayer rituals and puja, creating a sense of reverence and devotion.
Beyond decorations, dogs are treated to special meals prepared just for them. Households cook or provide foods that dogs enjoy – meat, eggs, milk, and other treats—making the day a delightful feast. Stray dogs, too, are not forgotten; the community comes together to ensure they receive food and attention, embodying the festival’s spirit of compassion and community.
The Tihar festival in Nepal is a vivid cultural celebration that emphasizes interconnectedness, prosperity, and respect for all living beings. Each festival day is dedicated to a specific animal or deity, highlighting their importance in maintaining cosmic balance. The first day is for crows, considered messengers, while the third-day honours cows, symbols of prosperity. Goddess Laxmi, the goddess of wealth, is worshipped on the evening of the third day, enhancing the festivities with hope and blessings for the future.
Kukur Tihar Beyond Nepal
Kukur Tihar’s heartwarming message has gained international attention and inspired celebrations beyond Nepal. In 2016, Mexico introduced its own Kukur Tihar event, where people paraded with their dogs adorned in garlands and traditional tika, much like the rituals in Nepal. This cross-cultural adoption of Kukur Tihar speaks to the universal appeal of honoring animals and highlights the growing appreciation for the bond between humans and dogs.
Kukur Tihar Is Celebrated Worldwide
For dog lovers and animal enthusiasts worldwide, Kukur Tihar reminds us of the joy and companionship dogs bring to our lives. People outside Nepal can join Kukur Tihar’s spirit by donating to animal shelters, feeding stray dogs in their communities, or volunteering to care for animals in need. Celebrating Kukur Tihar beyond its origins fosters a sense of global compassion and unity, honoring animals in meaningful ways.
