Did you know that Diwali is celebrated as Tihar in Nepal, and in some parts of West Bengal and Northeast India as well? By Chandrani Pal
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This Diwali, let’s travel to the hill stations of Darjeeling, Kalimpong, or Sikkim and celebrate Tihar, a five-day-long Hindu carnival, which is traditionally a Nepali festival but is celebrated in some parts of India as well. During this festival, people not just show gratitude to the Gods but also to mother nature and animals.
The first day is called Kaag Tihar, on which crows and ravens, who are believed to be messengers of the death God Yama, are worshipped, and grains, seeds, and sweets are placed on the roofs of houses or on the streets as offerings for them.
On the second day, known as Kukur Tihar, dogs–both pets as well as strays–are worshipped and fed, to celebrate the bond of loyalty, compassion, and devotion. It is believed that dogs guide souls to the gate of heaven.
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The third day is the most important day and is celebrated in two parts. While the morning ritual is called Gai (cow) Tihar, during which a cow is worshipped and fed, in the evening, people decorate their homes to welcome Goddess Lakshmi. Later, young girls go around in the neighbourhood, singing traditional songs of Bhailo and Deusi to seek blessings. In return, they are offered money and food as a reward. Fireworks are also common on this day.
On the fourth day of Tihar, people perform Goru Puja, Govardhan Puja and Mha Puja. In the first one, they worship an ox, in the second one they worship cow dung, and the third one is to worship oneself.
The last day of Tihar known as Bhai Tika is celebrated with trumpet calls all across the country, where brothers and sisters mark their bonds by doing rituals for one another.
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This year, the festival will be celebrated from November 13 to November 16. So, if you want to witness a different kind of Diwali, we suggest you book your tickets today. Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal’s Siliguri city is the nearest to all three destinations.
For luxurious stay options, you can checkout, Elgin Hotels and Resorts, Ging Tea House — a heritage plantation retreat — and Sourenee Tea Estate and Boutique Resort, in Darjeeling, Mayfair Spa Resort and Casino in Gangtok, The Elgin Mount Pandim in Pelling, and Mayfair Himalayan Spa Resort in Kalimpong.
Related: Here Are Some Easy Ways To Celebrate An Eco-Friendly Diwali Not Just In 2020 But Every Year
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