Tihar is one of the biggest festivals of Nepal celebrated by the Hindus. This festival is celebrated for five days, focusing on the relationship of human with different creatures and God.

The second day of Tihar is an interesting one, the day in which dogs are worshiped and honored. Dogs are considered to be loyal friend of humans. But this is not the only reason why they are worshiped on this day. The reason behind worshiping dogs during Tihar has some historical reasons and significance too.

Source: Bhakti Rasayana

According to Rigveda, a sacred book on Hinduism, Samara (the mother of dogs) had assisted Indra ( The Lord of heaven) in retrieving stolen cattle.

According to another hindu mythology dogs are considered as the messenger of Lord Yamraj, the God of Death.  A dog is also said to guard the gates of the afterlife.

Source: theodysseyonline.com

On the day of Kukur Tihar, people offer mala (garland made of flowers) , tika (sacred colored powder) and delicious food to the dogs. People cherish the strong bond between humans and dogs on this day.

Source: rupakkhadka.com

Not many would know the mythological reason behind celebrating this festival. However, these days people give more importance to this festival because of the relationship they have with their favorite pet.  Those who do not have a pet at home go in search of stray dogs and put garlands and tika to them. Even the dogs are excited when they are offered delicious food early in the morning but until the day end, they are so much pampered and obsessed with food that they don’t  give a glance even to their favorite food.

Pic By: Satish Sharma

So how are you pampering your dog today? And how are you celebrating this festival? Do share!