Nepali Hindus celebrated Bhai Tika, the fifth and last day of Tihar, which is also known as the festival of lights, throughout the country on Thursday. The auspicious time for Bhai Tika was 11:23 am.

On this day, sisters put multi-colour tika on the foreheads of their brothers so as to ensure their good health, prosperity and long life, and thank them for the ‘protection’ they give. A special garland is made for the brothers out of a flower that wilts after a couple of months, symbolising the sister's prayer for her brother's long life. In turn, brothers provide gifts to their sisters. Bhaitika is considered a special festival that strengthens relation between brothers and sisters.

According to Hindu mythology, the festival is observed in memory of Yamraj, the god of death and his sister Yamuna. Hindu epics say, tired of her brother's busy schedule Yamuna invited her brother Yamraj to her place and gave her special treatment by providing Tika, special food and gifts.

Sisters also worship Yamraj and his sister Yamuna during Bhaitika.

Brothers and sisters who have gone to various places for work or study also return to their home or their sister's home for Tihar festival. nepalnews.com