Kathmandu: The five-day Tihar festival concluded on Sunday with the celebration of Bhaitika, a day when sisters place tika on their brothers’ foreheads, wishing them happiness, long life, and prosperity. This year, the auspicious time for Bhaitika was 11:37 am, though the ritual could be performed until sunset, as advised by Prof Shree Krishna Adhikari, Chairperson of the National Calendar Determination Committee.

During Bhaitika, brothers sit in specially prepared spaces surrounded by a trail of mustard oil. Sisters apply colorful tika on their brothers' foreheads and adorn them with garlands made from dubo (grass) and makhamali (globe amaranth) flowers. Sisters then serve them an assortment of sweets, walnuts, spices, and Sel roti, a traditional bread. In return, brothers apply tika to their sisters, bestowing wishes of happiness and presenting gifts.

For those without siblings, Bhaitika is still celebrated with friends who are regarded as brothers or sisters. The Balgopaleshwor Temple in Ranipokhari, open only once a year, welcomed visitors for Bhaitika.

Throughout Tihar, people worshiped animals such as crows, dogs, and oxen, and celebrated Laxmipuja with grand displays of lights, color, and flowers, marking a vibrant and cherished festival.