Diwali and Tihar are Hindu "Festival of Lights" celebrations known for dazzling candles, streetlights, and fireworks displays. A shared theme: Both festivals celebrate the victory of good over evil and light driving out darkness.

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Kukur Tihar

Also known as the “day of the dogs,” is a festival celebrated in Nepal as part of the multi-day festival of Tihar dedicated to honoring and worshiping dogs for their loyalty, companionship, and role as protectors. Dogs’ unwavering loyalty and protective instincts are embodied within Indian culture. Dogs are regarded as sacred creatures, revered for their companionship and role as protectors in the Hindu faith.
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Kukur Tihar highlights the importance of treating all dogs with kindness, compassion, and respect. Dogs are celebrated in the following ways:

* Tika and garland: Dogs are adorned with tika, a mark on their forehead made with vermilion, and garlands made of marigold flowers. This symbolizes their sacred status and acknowledges their loyalty and companionship.

* Special meals: Dogs are treated to delicious foods as a gesture of gratitude for their devotion and friendship.

* Acknowledgment of guardianship: In Hindu culture, dogs are believed to guard the gates of the afterlife. During Kukur Tihar, people recognize and honor the role of dogs as protectors and guardians.

* Blessings: People seek blessings from the dogs, offering prayers and expressing gratitude for their unwavering loyalty and protection.

* Street dogs: Kukur Tihar extends its celebration to stray dogs as well. People decorate and feed street dogs, recognizing the importance of compassion and kindness towards all dogs, not just pets.

* Symbolic worship: Dogs are seen as a representation of the deity Bhairava, who is associated with destruction and protection. Worshiping dogs during Kukur Tihar is a way of seeking protection from negative forces and expressing reverence for their significance in Hindu culture.

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The day of Kukur Tihar has become somewhat famous in the West, especially among pet lovers who appreciate this celebration for its purity and beauty. If you love dogs, then Kukur Tihar is a great chance to thank them and also capture beautiful photos of the special bond between people and dogs.

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As you celebrate Diwali, Tihar, or any similar festival, you shouldn't forget to consider your canine buddies. Enjoy the Festival of Lights with your dogs in pet-friendly ways: * Light pet-friendly lamps or battery-powered candles in your home without risking any wagging tails. * Prepare special dog-friendly versions of treats. * Spend quality time with your dogs through play and cuddles to reassure them.

Diwali is largely observed by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists, but much like Christmas, the holiday transcends religion and is now celebrated by many people outside those traditions. There has been a movement in Congress to make it a National US holiday. New York City Mayor, Eric Adams, declared Diwali an official public-school holiday in June 2023.
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And yes, you can now find professional, modern greeting cards.
for the holidays of both Diwali and Kukur Tihar. See above.
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The model in the above card photo (and our beloved family member) is "Bailey" the Chihuahua.

In Aztec culture (Chihuahuas' origin as a Breed), Chihuahua were thought to also have mystical powers. It was believed that a Chihuahua’s spirit could guide the dead's spirit through the afterlife. They were revered. Interestingly, Kukur Tihar (a Hindu Holiday) is now celebrated in some parts of Mexico. Around the world and throughout time, dogs have long played an important (and sometimes mystical) role in humans' lives. We owe them much.

“Kukur Tihar is a time to appreciate all the little things that our dogs do for us every day.”