Today, Nepal is celebrating Bhai Tika, the main day of Tihar, also known as Yam panchak. On this special day, sisters put colorful tika on their brothers’ foreheads, praying for their long life, good health, and prosperity.
A festival of love and blessings
Bhai Tika falls on the second day of the bright fortnight of the Nepali month Kartik. It marks the sixth and final day of Tihar, though this year, due to an extended lunar date, it is being observed a day later than usual. Sisters apply five or seven-colored tika and offer garlands made of marigold and makhamali (globe amaranth) flowers. In return, brothers give gifts, clothes, or money as a token of love and respect.
According to religious belief, performing this ritual brings sisters lifelong happiness and brothers protection from untimely death.
The perfect time for tika
The Nepal Panchanga Nirnaya Samiti has announced 11:39 a.m. as the most auspicious time for applying tika today. This year, sisters should face east and brothers west while performing the ritual, as it aligns with the favorable lunar position.
Ancient traditions continue
Before applying tika, families worship the gods and goddesses of longevity and prosperity. Offerings are made to Lord Ganesh, Goddess Lakshmi, Yamaraj, Yamu, and the eight immortal beings known as Ashta Chiranjivi. Traditionally, the tika is made from five colors — red, white, yellow, green, and blue.
For those without siblings
For people who do not have a brother or sister, special arrangements are made at Kathmandu’s Rani Pokhari. The Bal Gopaleshwar Temple located at the center of the pond opens only once a year on Bhai Tika day. People visit this temple to receive tika and offer prayers.
A similar tradition also takes place at Khajneshwar Mahadev Temple in Jayabageshwori, where devotees without siblings come to continue the spirit of the festival.
A celebration of togetherness
Even as times change, Bhai Tika remains one of the most emotional and meaningful days in Nepali culture. It symbolizes not only the bond between brothers and sisters but also the hope, blessing, and unity that Tihar brings to every household.
