New Delhi: As soon as the festival of Diwali arrives in India, lamps are lit in homes and Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha are worshipped. But in the neighbouring country Nepal, a tradition is also followed during Diwali, which makes it different from other places. Here during the festival, dogs are garlanded with flowers, tilak is applied on their foreheads and they are fed their favourite dishes. This special tradition is called ‘Kukur Tihar’. It is not just a religious ritual but also an opportunity to honour the relationship of love, trust and loyalty between humans and animals.
What is Kukur Tihar of Nepal?
In Nepal, Diwali is known as Tihar. This is a festival lasting five days, which is also called Yampanchak. In the year 2026, Tihar is being organised from 7 to 11 November. During this period, puja is done every day according to different traditions. Kukur Tihar is the second day of this festival. This year it was celebrated on 8 November. On this day, along with pet dogs, dogs living on the streets are also respected.
Why are dogs garlanded with flowers?
In Nepali religious beliefs, dogs are considered to be related to Yamraj. He has been described as the messenger and protector of Yamraj. It is believed that dogs can sense danger in advance and protect their owners. For this reason, on Kukur Tihar, gratitude is expressed for their loyalty and service.
On this day, a garland of marigold flowers is worn around the neck of dogs. Red tilak is applied on their forehead and delicious food is given. At many places they are also fed milk, fruits and other favourite things. There is no discrimination of any kind in this tradition. From homegrown dogs to stray dogs, everyone is included in this festival.
Are police and army sniffer dogs also worshipped?
On the occasion of Kukur Tihar, dogs included in the dog squads of police and army in Nepal are also given special respect. These trained dogs help in searching criminals, security arrangements and rescue operations during natural disasters. Special puja programmes are organised in recognition of their services and hard work.
This year, programmes were also organised in the Canine Office of Nepal Police and Shri Bhairav Vehicle Company of Nepali Army on the occasion of Kukur Tihar. In these events, trained dogs were given tilak and their contribution was honoured.
What happens in the remaining four days of Tihar?
Kaag Tihar is celebrated on the first day of Tihar. Crows are given food on this day because in Nepali beliefs they are considered the messengers of Yamraj. On the second day, dogs are honoured on Kukur Tihar. Cows are worshipped and Lakshmi is worshipped on the third day. On the fourth day, there is a tradition of worshipping the bulls and themselves in some communities i.e. Mha Puja. On the fifth and final day, Bhai Tika is celebrated, in which sisters apply tilak on the foreheads of their brothers and pray for their long life and prosperity.
Is Kukur Tihar just a religious tradition?
The message of Kukur Tihar goes beyond religious beliefs. This festival reminds that animals are also an important part of human life and they should be treated with sensitivity. Nepal’s First Lady Sabina Kafle has also talked about giving recognition to this tradition at the international level. He stressed that efforts for animal care, vaccination and their welfare should not be limited to festivals only.
