Nestled among the green and snowcapped mighty Himalayas, Nepal is one of the most beautiful countries of the World. Since the last many years, it has attracted tourists not only for its scenic beauty but also for the retention of the age-old celebrations of the Hindu culture. It is infact the only Hindu Kingdom of the world. The Nepalese celebrate all the Hindu festivals wit
h equal gusto but Diwali has a special place in the heart of everyone in Nepal. Even the Jain, Sikh, and the Buddhists community of Nepal, particularly the Newar Buddhist celebrates this festival with great joy. Diwali, the festival of lights is known as Tihar or Swanti in Nepal.
The Diwali festival in this Himalayan nation is observed to celebrate Lakshmi- the goddess of wealth and Ganesh - the god of prosperity. In Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, houses and shops are brightly lit with traditional and electric lights on Diwali. The city wears a festive look during the entire five day long Diwali celebrations and exchange Diwali Gifts. Like the Hindu communities, in the rest of the world, the Nepali Hindus too enjoy these days with family and friends and take rest from their hectic work schedules. The festival in this country denotes triumph of good over evil.
The first day of the Diwali festival in Nepal is dedicated to cow worship. On this day, the female members of the house cook special rice and feed the cows. It is believed that worshiping the cow on this day brings in blessings from goddess Lakshmi. The second day is dedicated to dogs as the Vahana of Bhairava (Lord Shiva's vehicle). Preparation of delicious food especially meant for the dog is the order of the day.
The third day is the actual Diwali day with lights and lamps lit to illuminate the entire household surrounding. With all the houses and other establishments glowing brightly, it seems as if the city wears a new glittery garb on the occasion of Diwali. Special food items like Diwali sweets of different types are prepared on this day to mark the festivity. Nowadays, traditionally made sweets are also available at different readymade packs in the market. The fireworks and crackers are used widely by both the young and the old alike, who try to forget all the worries of the world during the happy occasion of Diwali. Some people also wear new dresses and buy new home decoration items during this time.
The fourth day of Diwali in Nepal is dedicated to Yama, the Hindu God of Death. He is invoked on this day for long life. On the final day is Bhai Dooj also known as Bhhaya Dooj, dedicated to the brothers who are wished long life and prosperity by their sisters. On this day, sisters specially married ones, visit their parents’ home and apply a special 'Paanch Rangi Tika' consisting of five colors (red, green, blue, yellow and white) on their brothers’ forehead for a healthy long life. The brothers also shower lavish Bhai Dooj gifts to commemorate the eternal brother-sister bond. Diwali Homemade sweets and feasting follows the ritualistic ceremony of Bhaidooj.
Top Selling Gifts on Diwali Festival:
 |
Post a Comment