At this time of year, millions of people around the world - and in particular Hindus, Buddhists, Jains and Sikhs - celebrate the festival of Diwali, also known as the "festival of lights". The anniversary, dedicated to the victory of good over evil, is a precious opportunity not only to feel closer to family and friends but also, as happens in Nepal, to thank the dogs for their loyalty.
He is about to end up run over, his mother saves him
At this time of year, millions of people around the world - and in particular Hindus, Buddhists, Jains and Sikhs - celebrate the Diwali party, Also known as "Festival of lights". The anniversary, dedicated to the victory of good over evil, is a precious opportunity not only to feel closer to family and friends but also, as happens in Nepal, to thank the dogs for their loyalty.
We often tell of abused, abandoned or abused animals: Fortunately, however, there are also different stories, which speak of respect and friendship and which have the power to reconcile us a little with the world. As happens with this very particular Nepalese tradition, which is part of the celebrations of the Diwali festival.
Diwali celebrations, which include a variety of different rites, including the decoration of houses and the exchange of gifts, usually last for five days. In Nepal, where the holiday is called Tihar, the second of these days is dedicated to dogs, to celebrate the friendship and loyalty that bind them to humans.
On this very special occasion, called Kukur Tihar or Khicha Puja ("dog worship"), all dogs, including strays, are treated as highly respected characters, like kings and queens.
In the Nepalese tradition, dogs are sacred creatures, messengers of the god of Death. On the day of Kukur Tihar they are adorned with garlands as a sign of respect and can enjoy succulent foods, get ready for the occasion. A tilaka of honor is drawn on their foreheads, a vertical red line, and their head is sprinkled with red dust, a symbol of sacredness.
In Nepal, dogs aren't the only animals considered sacred and celebrated during Diwali or Tihar celebrations: the first of the five days of celebrations is in fact dedicated to crows, while during the third, homage is paid to cows.
Lisa Vagnozzi
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