Nepal Has an Entire Festival Just to Thank Dogs and It’s the Purest Thing Ever
Nepal does something every autumn that feels almost unreal in the best possible way. While many places celebrate with lights and gatherings, Nepal adds a heartfelt twist to its five-day Hindu festival called Tihar, held between October and November. The second day of this festival is known as Kukur Tihar, and it is dedicated entirely to thanking dogs for their loyalty and companionship.
Tihar itself is lively and warm. Families clean their homes, decorate courtyards, and place marigold and Makhmali flowers everywhere. Lamps glow through the evening as people pray to Laxmi, the Goddess of Wealth, hoping she brings blessings to their homes. All of this sets the stage for a celebration that mixes tradition, community spirit, and simple affection, leading right into the day when dogs take the spotlight.
The Sweetest Tradition You’ll Ever Hear About
When Kukur Tihar arrives, families begin the day with one goal in mind: make their dogs feel appreciated. In Hindu belief, these creatures are not only companions but also protectors of homes and messengers of Yama, the god of death. They are even said to guard the gates of Naraka, the Hindu idea of Hell. With a role like that, it makes sense that this day highlights how important they are.
As part of the celebration, each dog receives a flower garland called a malla, which is usually made of bright marigolds. It represents respect and signals that the wearer holds a meaningful place in the family and community. The dogs also receive a red tika on their forehead, made from natural powdered pigment, that serves as a blessing.
Food is also a central part of the day. Dogs enjoy treats such as meat, rice, eggs, milk, and good-quality dog food, and families often prepare whatever their pets love most. Even street dogs are included in every part of the celebration, which gives Kukur Tihar an even more touching quality. The idea is to show kindness without limits, so no dog is ignored or left hungry.
The Festival’s Meaningful Background
The traditions of Tihar come from a story about Yama and his sister, Yamuna. After not seeing her brother for a long time, Yamuna sent a crow, a dog, and a cow to invite him to visit her. When her messengers were unable to complete the task, she eventually invited him herself.
Once Yama arrived, she welcomed him with flowers, food, and a seven-colored tika, and created a protective circle around him using mustard oil, Dubo grass, and Makhmali flowers. This story has been passed down through generations and influences many of the rituals that honor the animals involved.
Because of this, each day of Tihar focuses on a different being. Crows are honored on the first day, followed by dogs on the second, cows on the third, and oxen on the fourth. The fifth day celebrates the bond between siblings. Every part of the festival ties back to gratitude, respect, and the belief that all living beings play a meaningful role in the world.
A Day Filled With Joy For Everyone
Image via Getty Images/Tuayai
As Kukur Tihar unfolds, the streets of Nepal fill with color and laughter. Dogs walk proudly with their garlands, families gather to give them food, and neighborhoods come alive with music, decorations, and shared stories. Many people post photos of their decorated pets, and the images spread quickly online because they capture something honest and joyful.
Even those without dogs participate by offering food to strays, making the celebration feel inclusive and community-centered. People often remark that appreciating dogs for only one day feels too short, but Kukur Tihar still stands out as a reminder that gratitude doesn’t have to be complicated.