look news india
News India Live, Digital Desk: Nepal Kukur Tihar: On the one hand, while we often abuse the dogs of the street or make a mouth to see them, there is also a place in the world where dogs are not considered less than any God once in a year. They are worshiped, they are worn a garland of flowers, tilak is applied on the forehead and royal feast is given. This unique and heart touching festival is celebrated in our neighboring country Nepal.
The name of this festival is ‘Kukur Tihar’. ‘Kukur’ means ‘dog’ in Nepali. It falls on the second day of ‘Tihar’ (which is celebrated in India like Diwali), the second largest festival of Nepal. This festival is a celebration of the most beloved and loyal relationship between humans and dogs.
Why is dogs worshiped?
The tradition of worshiping dogs in Nepal has deep mythological and cultural beliefs.
- Yamraj’s messenger: According to Hindu mythology, dogs are considered the messenger or messenger of Yamraj, the god of death. It is believed that dogs protect the gate of Yamlok. On the day of ‘Kukur Tihar’, people try to please Yamraj by worshiping dogs so that they can save them from all the pains that come after death.
- Bhairav’s vehicle: Dogs are also considered to be the most fierce form of Lord Shiva, the vehicle of Bhairav. Therefore, they are also seen with revered point of view.
- Context of Mahabharata: A unique example of dog’s loyalty is also found in the story of Mahabharata. When Yudhishthira was going to Sashir heaven, all his family members left him on the way, but a dog did not leave him until the end. The dog was actually Dharmaraja himself, who was examining Yudhishthira. This story reflects the selfless devotion and loyalty of a dog towards humans.
How is ‘Kukur Tihar’ celebrated?
The day of ‘Kukur Tihar’ is worth seeing in Nepal.
- In the morning, people honor their pet dogs as well as stray dogs of the street.
- They are bathed and cleaned.
- A red vermilion or Abir’s vaccine (tilak) is applied on his forehead.
- A garland of marigold flowers is worn around his neck.
- After this, they are served delicious food of their choice, such as meat, milk, eggs and sweets.
On this day, it is considered a sin to treat any dog in Nepal. This festival teaches us that animals, especially dogs, are not just animals, but they are our protector, companion and true friends, and we should always respect them.
