Bhai Tika strengthens bonds of love among siblings: PM Shah

Kathmandu: Prime Minister Balendra Shah has said that Bhai Tika strengthens the bonds of love, affection and mutual respect between brothers and sisters, while promoting family unity and togetherness.

In a message issued today on the occasion of Bhai Tika, the final day of the five-day Tihar festival, Prime Minister Shah extended warm wishes to all fathers, mothers, brothers and sisters living in Nepal and abroad.

Highlighting the religious significance of the festival, Prime Minister Shah recalled the Hindu mythological story of Yamaraj and his sister Yamuna.

According to the legend, Yamaraj visited his sister Yamuna’s home in Kartik following her invitation. Yamuna welcomed him with traditional rituals and applied tika on his forehead.

Referring to the popular belief associated with the tradition, Prime Minister Shah said that brothers who receive tika and worship from their sisters on this day are believed to be blessed with long life, good health and prosperity.

He said sisters apply seven-coloured tika on their brothers’ foreheads, offer garlands of dubo grass and flowers, and pray for their long life, good health and success.

In return, brothers offer gifts or money to their sisters according to their means and receive their blessings, he added.