The eternal love and bond of siblings: Bhai Tika celebrated in Nepal

KATHMANDU, Oct 29: The last day of the Tihar festival was observed by Nepalese all over the country with the ritual of Bhai Tika. Sisters pray for the longevity and success while applying the tika (multicolored vermillion) on their brother’s forehead.

The auspicious time for tika this year was 11.55 am.

It is a day when sibling love is the closest reflected through the ritual, exchange of gifts, dining together, and the gathering of family and friends.

According to Hindu mythology, it is said that the God of Death Yamraj received a special handmade gift from his sister Yamuna, and a ritual of applying vermillion was observed. In happiness, the God of Death declared that anyone receiving the vermillion will be spared of death on that particular day.

Marking this event garlands are made, sweet dishes are prepared, food is cooked and there is a puja performed by the sisters for the longevity health and prosperity of their brother.

A multicolored vermillion or the tika is applied which signifies the close bond between the two. Gifts are exchanged and this day not only holds importance due to the ritual but also the emotions attached with affection and respect brought out of sibling love.

(Former King Gyanendra Bir Bikram Shah receiving Tika from Sister former Princess Shobha Shah) 

Former King his Majesty Gyanendra Bir Bikram Shah celebrated the occasion receiving the tike from his sister Princess Shobha Shah in Kamaladi.

(President of Nepal Bidya Devi Bhandari observing Bhai Tika)

The President of Nepal Bidya Devi Bhandari offered the tika to her younger siblings Tejendra and Degendra Pandey at Chapali Height.

(Prime Minister K.P.Sharma Oli receiving Tika from his Sister) 

Prime Minister K.P.Sharma Oli received Bhai Tika from his younger sisters Bishnumaya Dhakal and Kaushila Devi Koirala at his official residence in Baluwatar.

The Bhai Tika day marks the end of the 5 day Tihar festival.