Key Takeaways:

• Bhaitika auspicious time fixed at 11:07am on November 11
• Tihar begins on November 6 with Dhanwantari Jayanti
• Mha Puja and Nepal Sambat 1147 to be observed on November 10
• Bhaitika and Kija Puja will be celebrated on November 11

KATHMANDU, NOVEMBER 3 The auspicious time for observing Bhaitika, the main ritual of the five-day Tihar festival, has been fixed at 11:07am on November 11, according to the Nepal Calendar Determination Committee. Committee Chair Prof Dr Puruswottam Bhattarai said the designated time is especially recommended for state dignitaries and those wishing to perform the ritual at the most auspicious hour. However, he clarified that there are no strict astrological restrictions preventing people from receiving tika later in the day. The five-day festival of Tihar, also known as Yama Panchak, will begin on November 6 with the observance of Dhanwantari Jayanti. According to the committee's schedule, Kaag Tihar will be observed on November 7, followed by Kukur Tihar and Laxmi Puja on November 8. Cow worship, ox worship and self-worship will be observed on November 10, which will also mark Mha Puja, an important Newar tradition, and the start of Nepal Sambat 1147. The festival will conclude on November 11 with Bhaitika, when sisters apply tika to their brothers and pray for their long life, prosperity and well-being. Members of the Newar community will also observe Kija Puja on the same day.