Sewar: In a unique twist on the customary Bhaitika ritual of the Tihar festival, brothers Madan and Suman Timilsina from Sewar, Ward 10, Byas Municipality, Tanahu, have opted to apply Bhaitika to each other. Traditionally, this ritual is performed by sisters who put the Bhaitika on the foreheads of their brothers, wishing them good health, happiness, and prosperity.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the brothers have been observing this non-traditional ritual for the past eight years. At 11:39 am, the auspicious hour for this year’s Bhaitika, Madan, the older brother, began the ceremony by applying the seven-colored tika to his younger brother Suman’s forehead, completing all related rituals and blessing him. Suman then reciprocated by applying the tika to Madan, following the same ceremonial steps.
Madan explained their unique practice, stating, “Since we have no own sisters, we have been celebrating Bhaitika like this for eight years.” Initially, many found their approach to be unconventional, as the Bhaitika ritual traditionally involves sisters and brothers.
The Bhaitika is a significant aspect of the five-day Tihar festival, symbolizing the bond between siblings. Sisters usually mark the occasion by applying the seven-colored tika and adorning their brothers with globe amaranth and marigold garlands, wishing them longevity and prosperity.