Bhai Tika today !

October 27, Kathmandu: Brothers are receiving tika from their sisters on Thursday on the occasion of Bhai Tika as part of Tihar celebrations.

On the fifth day of Tihar also known as Yamapanchak, sisters wish their brothers long life, health, and wealth by putting five coloured “Pancharangi” or seven coloured “Saptarangi” tika as per age-old traditions.

It is widely believed that worshipping one’s sisters leads to good luck and prosperity. The auspicious time for the tika is at 11:37, but it can take place throughout the day today.

Following the religious and social tradition sisters give their brothers gifts including dry fruits and selroti (rice sweet fried bread) after applying tika, while brothers also show their respect by offering gifts and cash to their sisters as symbols of good fortune.

Meanwhile, in the capital Kathmandu, the temple of Balgopaleshwar in the middle of Ranipokhari is open for those who do not have sisters and those who are unable to reach their sisters for Bhai tika.

The Balagopaleshwar Temple opens only on Bhai Tika.

The Spokesperson of Kathmandu Metropolitan City Naveen Manandhar said that all preparations had been completed to open the Balagopaleshwar temple for devotees since Thursday morning.

Bhai Tika is celebrated by the Newar community as Kija Puja.