KATHMANDU, Oct 28: The third day of Yamapanchak or Tihar festival was celebrated on Sunday evening by worshipping Laxmi, the goddess of wealth, affluence and prosperity, with devotion.

Photo: RSS

Fireworks in the sky of Kathmandu. Photo Courtesy: Kumud Parajuli

The night of Laxmi Puja is also known as Sukha Ratri, meaning the night of happiness as it is believed that Goddess Laxmi comes to reside in the house on this special night. To 'welcome' the goddess in the house, devotees make the footprint signs from their courtyard up to the main altar where the goddess is worshipper amidst all kinds of rituals. 

Night illumination is carried out at homes by lighting colourful electric lights and butter lamps. The buildings in the city area are bedecked with colourful lights which are illuminated on the occasion.

Some people also worship the cow in the morning on Laxmi Puja in accordance with their family tradition.

Photo: RSS

Deusi Bhailo is also an important part of Tihar. The Bhailo troupes visit house to house in the neighbourhood performing the Bhailo cultural songs and dance. In return, the house-owners, especially mothers, give various presents like paddy, rice grain, flower garlands, money and 'Selroti', a special delicacy cooked in ghee. It is believed the house-owner is bestowed with blessings from the goddess by presenting the donation to these Bhailo troupes.

 
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• Kathmandu
 
• Illumination
 
• Deepawali