Kaag Tihar, the first day of Tihar, honours crows (kaag), which are considered sacred messengers of Yama, the god of death, believed to bring news of misfortune or death to a household. To appease and honour them, families place food offerings — rice, bread, sweets — on rooftops or in the yard at dawn, before eating anything themselves, so that the crows may eat first and carry no ill tidings. The observance reflects a deep strand of Nepali tradition that finds spiritual significance in the natural world and the animals that inhabit it.
Kaag Tihar is the first day of the vibrant Tihar festival, entirely dedicated to crows and ravens. In Hindu mythology, these birds are considered the messengers of Yama, the god of death. By honouring them, devotees believe they can appease Yama and prevent grief, death, and sorrow from entering their households during the coming year.
Morning Offerings
The rituals of Kaag Tihar begin early in the morning. Families prepare special meals, including sweets and various grains, and place them on roofs or in courtyards on leaf plates. It is a strict tradition that the family members do not eat their own morning meal until the crows have descended to partake in the offerings, ensuring the divine messengers are satisfied first.
Symbolism of the Crow
The reverence for the crow highlights a profound aspect of Nepali culture: the recognition of the interconnectedness of all living beings and the divine. The crow, often seen as an ordinary or even nuisance bird in other cultures, is elevated to a sacred status. This practice instills a sense of respect for nature and an understanding that even the most common creatures hold spiritual significance.
Planning for Kaag Tihar
This 2083 date is part of the Tihar schedule. Check the calendar’s holiday scope separately from the observance itself. Family and community practices can vary; the festival date alone does not specify an exact ceremony time.