Kaag Tihar, also known as Yama Panchak, is the first day of the second largest festival of Nepal, Tihar. It falls on Kartik Krishna Trayodashi every year. Also the Kaag Tihar is known as Kwa Pooja (क्व: पूजा) in Newari Community (Local Ethnic Groups of Kathmandu Valley).
Kaag is a Nepali word for the bird Crow.
And on this day Crows are worshiped and praised as the messenger of death god Yamraj. People all over the country leave sweets, grains and other delicious foods on the rooftop as well as on the open areas for the crows to eat.
They also put flower garlands on the neck of the crows as part of the celebration of the festival.
Why are Crows Worshiped in Nepal?
It is believed that feeding and thanking crows on this day can prevent misfortune and get protection from harm.
In Nepali Society, Kaag (Crows) are considered as the messenger of death god, Yamraj the ruler of hell and death, records the births and deaths of all living entities on Earth, including humans, according to the Vedas.
Other Celebrations On Kaag Tihar
Normally On this day, Dhanvantari Day is also celebrated. Sage Dhanvantari is considered as the Ayurvedic pioneer who created the moment of Samundra Manthan on Kaag Tihar. But this year, it’ll be celebrated one day before Kaag Tihar.
Along with the celebration of Dhanvantari Day, Dhanteras is celebrated by worshiping Goddess Lakshmi along with Lord Kubera who is god of wealth. Hindus also consider this day as an auspicious day to buy precious metals like Gold and Silver, and kitchenware. The day also sees heavy purchases of appliances and automobiles.
This year the auspicious time for Dhanteras Puja is on Tuesday, October 29, 2024 (06:16 PM to 07:56 PM), Duration – 01 Hour 41 Mins.
There is also another belief that donating Yamadip today makes oneself free from the torture of Yamraj, the lord of hell and death.
How is Kaag Tihar Celebrated in Nepal?
Kaag Tihar is Celebrated in Nepal by worshiping crows, offering good foods which include sweets, grains, etc. and putting flower garland on the neck of crows in the morning.
When is Kaag Tihar in 2024 (2081 B.S.)?
In 2024 (2081 B.S.), Kaag Tihar (Crow Worshiping Festival) will be celebrated on October 30th, 2024 (14th Kartik, 2081 B.S.).
Photos of Crow being worshiped in Nepal
