Tihar Speech In English
Ladies and gentlemen,
Namaste!
Today, I have the immense pleasure of speaking to you about one of the most cherished and vibrant festivals in Nepal — Tihar. Tihar, also known as Deepawali, is a festival of lights, joy, and a celebration of the deep bonds that unite us as a community. It is a time when the entire nation comes alive with a spirit of unity and togetherness, as we celebrate not only the triumph of light over darkness but also the profound connections that bind us as a people.
Tihar spans five days, each with its own unique significance and rituals. The festival commences with Kaag Tihar, where we honor and feed the crows, considering them as messengers that connect us with the departed souls. The second day is Kukur Tihar, dedicated to our loyal canine companions, who are considered protectors and guides. On this day, we adorn our dogs with garlands and offer them delicious treats to show our gratitude for their unwavering loyalty.
The third day is Gai Tihar and Laxmi Puja. On this day, we worship the cows as a symbol of prosperity, and we pay our respects to Goddess Laxmi, the deity of wealth and fortune. Homes are beautifully decorated with colorful rangoli and oil lamps, illuminating the darkness and welcoming prosperity into our lives. Tihar is a festival that brings families together, as they gather to celebrate these auspicious moments, exchange gifts, and enjoy sumptuous feasts.
The fourth day is the much-awaited festival of Govardhan Puja. On this day, we create intricate and colorful mandalas, known as ‘rangoli,’ outside our homes to honor Lord Krishna, who once lifted the Govardhan Hill to protect the people from torrential rain. The vibrant designs symbolize the beauty and diversity of life, which we celebrate during this festival. It’s a day to appreciate the environment and the bounties of nature.
The final day, Bhai Tika, is a day that exemplifies the deep bonds between brothers and sisters. Sisters pray for the well-being of their brothers and perform a ceremonial tika (vermilion) and mala (garland) ritual. In return, brothers offer blessings and gifts to their sisters. It’s a beautiful representation of the love and protection siblings provide to one another.
Tihar is more than just a religious festival; it’s a cultural mosaic that highlights the values of family, respect for nature, and the spirit of unity. The lighting of lamps and candles signifies the triumph of good over evil and the dispelling of darkness from our lives. It reminds us that even in the darkest of times, there is always a glimmer of hope and the potential for positive change.
As we celebrate Tihar, let us not forget the essence of this festival — the bonds of love, respect, and gratitude that tie us together as a community and as a nation. It’s a time to cherish our relationships, both with humans and nature. Tihar teaches us that our lives are interconnected, and it is our responsibility to care for each other and our environment.
In conclusion, Tihar is a celebration of light, love, and the enduring connections that define our lives. It’s a time to reflect on the beauty of our culture, our traditions, and the importance of unity. So, let us come together as a community and celebrate this festival with utmost joy and enthusiasm, and may the light of Tihar brighten our lives, our homes, and our nation.
Thank you, and Happy Tihar to all of you! and Wish you a Happy Tihar.