Diwali is celebrated with bonfires, candles, fairy lights, diyas (traditional earthen lamps), and rangolis (traditional floor art).  Friends and families gather together, sharing their joy, food, and gifts with one another.

The first day, Kaag Tihar (Kwah Pujā), is dedicated to corvids – crows and ravens.  Their cawing represents grief and sadness.  Sweets are left on rooftops for them to fend off this despair.  On the third day, Gai Tihar, cows are venerated with garlands and the best grass, because they signify wealth and prosperity.  Houses are cleaned and adorned with marigolds and chrysanthemums.  There are other celebrations on the fourth and fifth days for oxen and for sisters to thank their brothers for the protection they provide.

But the second day, Kukur Tihar (Khichā Pujā) is set aside for dogs, who are believed to be messengers of the Lord Yamaraj, the god of death. Yamaraj is said to have two dogs – Shyam and Sadal – who guard the entrance to hell. There is a very special relationship between people and dogs, as they were one of the first domesticated animals, so they are decorated with garlands and tika (marks on the forehead), which makes each of them sacred and empowers them to bless all those they encounter on this day.  They are treated to heaps of scrumptious food.  Pets and street dogs alike are blessed and pampered throughout the day.

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In Nepal  they celebrate the Tihar Festival.  The five day event honors many things throughout, but on the second day the honorees are the dogs.

Day two of the festival is called Kukur Tihar.  During this part of the festival, dogs are worshiped as representations of the Hindu god Bhairav.

Dogs are given flower garlands as a sign of the people’s respect for the wonder that is the relationship between dog and man.

The dogs are marked on the forehead with red powder paint, which is a common practice among Hindus to signify sacredness.

It should come to no surprise that the dogs are also lavished with delicious foods and treats.  What dog wouldn’t love that?!

Basically, on the second day, dogs rule.  End of story.  Judging by the photos, there seem to be many happy dogs in Nepal.

So, if you were looking for a festival that is dog friendly, and will give them a day dedicated specially to them, Nepal is the place for you!

The festival takes place in the fall, but you don’t actually need to take your pet all the way there if it isn’t convenient.

Many people around the world celebrate the day and honor their pooches, who is sometimes the best member of the family all together.

The 9th of November, 2015 is Kukur Tihar.  Why not show your dog some love?  We would love to see pictures of your dog adorned with his or her floral garland!

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