Every dog has its day. And in Nepal, dogs have Kukur Tihar which means “their day”!
Diwali is the festival of lights and being the national festival of India, Diwali is celebrated by everyone regardless of regional differences. Different cultures celebrate the five-day autumn festival in their unique ways. In Nepal, Diwali is called Tihar and they celebrate the 5 days honoring different animals and birds.
‘Kukur Tihar’ is observed by Nepal on the second day of Diwali coinciding with Chhoti Diwali. On this day, there is no difference between pets and stray dogs. People celebrate their four-legged companions by honoring them and expressing gratitude. It is an acknowledgment of the bond between dogs and humans. They happily express gratitude towards their canine companions for their loyalty and friendship.
The festival finds its origin in Hindu mythology considering the role of dogs celebrated throughout history. The mythology believes that dogs have always been an integral part of human life. In Mahabharat, a dog is said to be following the Pandavas, and Yudhishthira is so attached to him that he refuses to enter Heaven without him. It is also said that two dogs guard the gates of the afterlife for the God of Death Yamraj.
Nepal celebrates Kukur Tihar by showering dogs with garlands and flowers and worshiping them by applying a red ‘teeka‘ as a mark of respect and dignity. After the pooja, the dogs are fed with a variety of food offerings including milk, eggs, meat, and special dog food. The origins of this festival are traced to Nepalese Hinduism and it is now recognized across the world by various religions including Hinduism and Buddhism.
The festival has even gone international! Mexico decided to adopt this unique celebration in 2016 and people recreated this day by honoring their pups. Locals of Mexico City worshiped their four-legged companions with garlands and teeka, and walked them to the Revolution Square.