Prime Minister Balen Shah has emphasised the bond between humans and animals which is one of the most beautiful parts of the traditional festivals in Nepal.
“During Yamapanchak and Kaag Tihar, we celebrate our rich cultural traditions which showcase the love, respect and peaceful living we have with other living beings,” he said.
“Sending my best wishes to mothers, sisters and brothers celebrating the festival, I would like to highlight our cultural tradition of worshipping animals during Tihar,” he said in a message posted online.
He specifically mentioned the tradition of feeding crows during Kaag Tihar on the first day of Yamapanchak.
PM Shah Explains the Culture Behind Kaag Tihar
He said crows are traditionally considered as messengers of Yamaraj, god of death in Hindu mythology.
On this day, people offer sweet treats to crows to show respect. This tradition stems from crows being seen as messengers and their cries can mean news or visitors are coming.
“We say ‘Shubha Bol, Shubha Bol’ in reference to this tradition,” he said.
In the past, without modern technology, people would often associate hearing a crow with expecting news or new visitors.
Traditionally people also offer curd and rice to crows and pray for good messages.
Yam Deepdan Shows Belief in Justice
The Prime Minister also mentioned the tradition of lights being lit during Yamapanchak.
People light lamps in the name of their family members to protect them from any suffering caused by Yamaraj, according to Hindu beliefs.
“Nepal’s rich culture shows us that Yamaraj is not just something to be scared of but also a symbol of justice,” he said.
In religious beliefs Yamaraj will punish anyone doing wrong but will also protect those doing the right thing.
These traditions show us messages of justice, good behaviour and responsibility.
PM Shah Wishes Everyone Good Health on Dhanwantari Jayanti
In his message, he also acknowledged Dhanwantari Jayanti which falls on the same day as Kaag Tihar this year.
Lord Dhanwantari is considered to be the founder of Ayurveda and god of health and healing in Hindu tradition.
According to mythology he appeared during the Samudra Manthan (ocean churning) with a pot of nectar.
“I send my prayers and wishes for everyone to have good health and live a life free from disease,” he said.
This highlights how important health, wellbeing and traditional culture is during the festive period.
Kukur Tihar Celebrates the Bond Between Humans and Dogs
Looking forward to Kukur Tihar tomorrow, the Prime Minister highlighted the unique bond we have with dogs.
During Kukur Tihar dogs are traditionally worshipped with flowers, tika and sweet treats.
He said dogs are some of the most reliable and loyal creatures in humanity.
They help us in research, rescue and many more areas.
“This is a great opportunity to show our love, thanks and appreciation for these loyal animals,” he said.
I hope this day helps to promote living in peace, showing compassion and living in harmony with other living beings.
PM Encourages People to Stay True, Just and Honest
To conclude his message, he said Nepal’s festivals should encourage us to stay true, just and honest.
“I hope this celebration encourages citizens to do their part in creating good governance,” he said.
Traditional festivals like Tihar encourage us to be compassionate, proud of our culture and respect all living beings.
Traditions like Kaag Tihar and Kukur Tihar continue to show how important it is to live in harmony with animals, humans and nature in Nepal.