Diwali, one of the most-celebrated Hindu festival is a five-day autumn celebrations known as The Festival of Lights. In Nepal, Diwali is called Tihar, and it a five-day festival, with each day having its own observances. The second day of this annual festival is celebrated as 'Kukur Tihar' and is solely dedicated to the dogs for their cherished relationship with humans. On this day, canines are decorated with colourful dyes and garlands and fed tasty treats. Police dogs are honoured with special ceremonies for this services.

The dogs are given special importance in Nepal because of their enrichment to the Hindu mythology. According to the Mahabharata, god Bhairava, a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva, had a dog as his vahana (Vehicle). Yamaraja, the god of death is believed to own two dogs as a guard. Owing to this belief, this day is also celebrated as Naraka Chaturdashi. Latest Diwali 2018 Rangoli Design Images: Easy-To-Make Colourful Rangoli Patterns at Home.

Tihar is considered as the second-biggest festival in Nepal after Dashain (Durga Puja). This festival carries a great importance in the country because it celebrates the relationship not only between humans and gods, but also between animals and humans. Deepavali in Nepal is a five day festival with the first day dedicated to crows, second to dogs, third to cows, fourth to Laxmi Puja and fifth to Bhai Tika. During this festival, people make beautiful patterns, known as Rangoli, on the floors, living rooms and courtyards to welcome goddess Laxmi, the source of eternal wealth, fortune and prosperity.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Nov 06, 2018 03:31 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).