Bhai Tika being observed today; 11:39 am set as auspicious time for tika – The Himalayan Times – Nepal’s No.1 English Daily Newspaper

KATHMANDU, OCTOBER 24

Bhai Tika, the most significant day of the Tihar festival, is being observed across the country today with prayers, blessings, and celebrations symbolizing the sacred bond between brothers and sisters.

This year, the most auspicious time for Bhai Tika has been set for 11:39 am. However, the tika may be offered anytime during the midday period, according to astrologers.

According to the National Calendar Determination Committee, said those seeking an auspicious moment should follow the timing that falls under Dhanur Lagna, Kanya Navamsha, Abhijit Yoga, and Vijay Muhurat.

As per tradition, sisters place colorful tika on their brothers’ foreheads, wishing them long life, happiness, and prosperity, while brothers offer tika and gifts in return, symbolizing mutual love and protection.

Bhai Tika, also called Kija Puja among the Newar community, marks the concluding day of Tihar, also known as Yama Panchak. On Bhai Tika, brothers sit at specially prepared places as sisters adorn them with garlands of dubo (sacred grass) and makhamali (globe amaranth), applying tika and offering traditional delicacies such as sel roti, sweets, fruits, and dry nuts.

The ritual, rooted in Hindu mythology, commemorates the legend of a sister who received a boon from Yamaraj, the god of death, ensuring her brother’s safety until the garland faded and the mustard oil dried up.

Even those without siblings take part in the tradition by exchanging tika with friends or at public temples such as Ranipokhari’s Balgopal Temple, which opens its gates today for devotees wishing to honor the festival’s spirit of familial love and togetherness.