Tihar

Today is Newari New Year, a part of the Tihar festival. Newaris are the indiginous people of Kathmandu Valley and we are now in the year 1138. Woo!

The Tihar festival is made up of several days honoring different animals and people.

First day, the crows, the messengers of death, they are fed corn and rice.

Second day, the dogs, they are the guides over the river of death and decorated with tika and garlands of flowers.

Third day, festival of light or Deepawali. The Goddess of wealth, Lakshmi, visits all the homes during the night. Everyone wants a visit and so they light their homes with butterlamps to guide her way.

Fourth day, Newari New Year and honouring your self. Mandalas are drawn by individuals (the circles of colourful designs), which are said to represent the God within yourself and your soul. According to this I am a compass and Martyn is chaos! There is then a long ceremony of puja, which we were able to take part in through our wonderful host, consisting of:

Making the mandala

Burning incense

Throwing wheat

Blessing a flower with yoghurt

Burning wicks

A massive tika

Having flowers poured on your head!

Eating an egg and drinking rakshi, local home brew :)

Saying namaste to the new year.

Followed by lots of food and booze!

Fifth day, Bhai Tika, honouring everyone's brothers. Brothers travel all over the valley to visit their family, especially sisters. They are honoured with a "panch tika" or five coloured tika. We can't wait for more colours and fun!