Photos

We were in Nepal, near the Bardia National Park, just in time for the last day of Divali when Hindis put tika (colored points) on the face of each other during the day of Brothers and Sisters.

As the Maoist were very active during this period we were the only tourist in this hostel and the Receptionist-natural guide-cooker-... invited us to pass the ceremony in his house.

This day, we also had tika on the face, we danced to drive out the spirits, ...

This picture was quite difficult because of the strong light in the background.

Here is a description of the five days of the Divali festival for the hindis.


Diwali is celebrated in Nepal to honor the goddess of wealth and god of prosperity-Lakshmi and Ganesh respectively. The festival here continues for five days. Every day has its special significance. The first day is dedicated to cows as they cook rice and feed the cows believing that goddess Lakshmi comes on cows. The second day is for Dogs as the Vahana of Bhairava. Preparation of delicious food especially meant for the dog is a typical characteristic of the day. Lights and lamps are lit to illuminate the entire surrounding and some of the specialty items are prepared to mark the third day of the festival. Fireworks, Lamps and crackers are widely used. The fourth day is dedicated to Yama, the Hindu God of Death. He is prayed for long life. The fifth final day is Bhhaya Dooj dedicated for the brothers who are wished long life and prosperity by their sisters.