Kukur Tihar

Kukur Tihar, also known as the Festival of Dogs, is a significant Hindu celebration in Nepal, observed on the second day of the five-day Tihar festival. This day honors dogs for their loyalty and companionship, reflecting their revered status as messengers of Yamaraj, the god of death, in Hindu mythology. During Kukur Tihar, dogs are adorned with marigold garlands and a red tika (mark) on their foreheads, and are offered special foods like meat, milk, and eggs as acts of reverence and gratitude. The festival underscores the deep bond between humans and dogs, celebrating their role in protecting households and guiding souls in the afterlife.