Nepal’s Day of the Dog as part of Hindu celebrations

WORSHIPING DOGS. Dogs adorned with marigold garlands for “Tihar,” the Nepalese version of Diwali (the Hindu festival of lights), are pictured at a dog care center in Kathmandu on Oct. 31, 2024. Dogs took center stage in Nepal on October 31, on a day dedicated to humankind’s loyal friend. (Photo by PRAKASH MATHEMA / AFP)

By Agence France-Presse

With marigold garlands around their necks, dogs took center stage in Nepal on Thursday for a day dedicated to humankind’s loyal friend as part of a Hindu festival.

Other pet owners dabbed a dash of vermillion on their dogs head as a sign of respect or offered snacks to hungry hounds.

Kukur Tihar, the second day of the five-day Tihar festival, is reserved for worshiping dogs as agents of Yamaraj, the god of death, and for appreciating their loyalty and companionship to humans.

Agriculture expert Dadhi Ram Kharel, 74, who celebrated the festival at home, told AFP that his dog is an integral part of his family.

“It is important to have a dog for our protection,” said Kharel, holding his 10-year-old labrador in his arms.

“When we have a dog, it protects our family and keeps us safe.”

While dogs are cherished as loyal friends, street dogs in Nepal often face cruelty.

“This is wrong because dogs are the most important companion[s] to humans because they serve full-time duty,” he said.

Across Nepal, dog lovers showered their pets and street dogs with treats, belly rubs, and toys to show their appreciation.

The canine unit of Nepal’s Armed Police Force also lined up for celebrations during a special ritual held at the headquarters.

The trained dogs are often used during investigations, natural disasters, and in the detection of explosives and drugs.

“It’s a special day for dogs,” said Ram Narayan KC, chief of the Animal Health and Dog Handler section of the Armed Police Force.

He said that the dogs are an important part of the security force’s team during times of crisis, including search and rescue missions.

“We offer our dogs milk, eggs, meat, and other foods on this day, remembering their contribution,” said KC.

Animal welfare advocates hope the Kukur Tihar spirit lasts beyond the festival, calling for better treatment of street dogs all year round and an end to harmful practices.

LOYAL COMPANIONS. A volunteer worships a dog as part of offerings for “Tihar,” the Nepalese version of Diwali (the Hindu festival of lights), at a dog care center in Kathmandu on Oct. 31, 2024. With marigold garlands around their necks, dogs took center stage in Nepal on October 31, on a day dedicated to humankind’s loyal friend. (Photo by PRAKASH MATHEMA / AFP)

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