Kathmandu, Nov 11: Bhai Tika, the final day of the five-day Tihar festival, is being celebrated across the country today, with the auspicious time for applying tika set for 11:07 am, according to the Nepal Calendar Determination Development Committee.
Although the ritual can be performed throughout the day, the Committee has identified 11:07 am as the most auspicious time for those following traditional astrological practices.
State authorities are advised to observe the ceremony at the designated hour, said Committee Chairperson Associate Professor Dr Purushottam Bhattarai.
Observed on the second day of the waxing moon in the Nepali month Kartik as per the lunar calendar, Bhai Tika celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters.
Sisters apply multi-coloured tika to their brothers, wishing them long life, good health and prosperity. Brothers, in return, offer gifts and express their affection and respect.
This year, sisters are advised to face east while applying tika, while brothers should face west, in accordance with traditional astrological beliefs.
The celebration also features garlands of makhamali, marigold and chrysanthemum flowers, along with traditional delicacies such as sel roti, walnuts and other offerings.
The Bal Gopaleshwar Temple at the centre of Rani Pokhari in Kathmandu will remain open for people without brothers or sisters to perform the rituals and receive tika. The temple opens to devotees only once a year, on Bhai Tika.
The Newar community also marks the occasion as Kija Puja, celebrating the bond between siblings.
