A Festival in Nepal Devoted to Worshiping Dogs
Dogs are heavenly creatures; No doubt about it. They are loyal, caring, lovable, and above all, our best friends. Although they are loved all over the world, one can certainly argue that no one cherishes them like the people of Nepal. This Asian country holds an annual festival to honor dogs, pamper them, and praise their noble spirit.
The festival known as Kukur Tihar Or “Dog Day”, it is held on the second of the five days that make up the Tihar Festival, a celebration similar to Diwali in India. There are four animals associated with Yama or Yamaraj, the god of death – the crow, the dog, the cow and the bull – which are worshiped on each day of the festival, with the fifth and final day reserved for humans. Dogs are considered messengers and guardians of Yama, and by celebrating them, devotees can ensure their safe passage to the afterlife or protect them from torture in hell.
On this day, dogs receive wreaths of shiny marigolds and Tilaka– A ceremonial mark on their foreheads. They are also served with a feast that can range from fine dog food to meat, milk and eggs. This applies to all dogs, whether they are house pets, service puppies – such as police dogs – and even stray dogs. As such, mistreating or being rude to a dog, especially on this day, is considered a sin.
The sentiment behind this festival has been praised across the world, being embraced beyond the Nepali diaspora. Since 2016, many cities across Mexico have also celebrated it as a way to honor dogs, associating them with pets. Day of the Dead Ceremonies, referring to the bond between humans and their pets that extends beyond the grave. More recently, it has also taken root in the United States, in places such as Virginia and Colorado.
This year, the Kukur Tihar festival was held on October 20, but if you missed the festivities, don’t worry. You can get ready for next year’s celebration, which is scheduled to take place on November 7, 2026. And if you can’t wait that long, remember that you can celebrate your favorite dog(s) any day! After all, they will be there for you 24/7, every day of the year.
Every year, Nepal holds a festival to honor dogs, pamper them and praise their noble spirit.
This day is known as “Kukur Tihar” or “Dog Day”, and is held on the second of the five days that make up the Tihar festival.
On this day, dogs receive garlands of shiny marigolds and tilaka (a ceremonial mark on their foreheads).
They are also served with a feast that can range from fine dog food to meat, milk and eggs.
sources: Nepal celebrates Dog Day; Kukur Tihar USA’s historic celebration unites dog lovers in Virginia; The city of Superior hosts the Dog Day Festival in Kukur Tihar
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