AURA QUE is not just about the finished products; its about the fair trade producers and their families that I work directly with, the constant challenges working in Nepal, as well as all the people I meet on my travels....

22 November 2010

Tihar Festival of Light - in Nepal

Tihar is a five day Nepalese festival which has been celebrated this week, beginning of November.  Two of these days incorporates the Hindu Festival of Deepavali (Divali), where one day is celebrated for goddess Laxmi and the other one is celebrated to worship brothers for their long life.  All ethnic groups celebrate this festival, and Kathmandu has had a festive vibe for the celebrations.

Little fairy lights and candles decorate all buildings and windows, during this festival of light - the city looks really pretty by night - I loved it!  In one street, they were making this giant floor painting, made from powdered spice, food and colour - it looked so beautiful, with crowds of people having a look at their work!

The fifth and last day of Tihar is Bhai Tika, a day where sisters put tika on forehead of brothers, to ensure long life, and thank them for the protection they give. When the sisters give the tika, the brothers give gifts or money as a return. A special garland is made for the brothers out of a flower that wilts after a couple of months, symbolizing the sister's prayer for her brother's long life.

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