Nepali women living in and outside the country celebrated Bhaitika by worshipping their brothers and offering them special food, garland and gifts.

As per the advice of the astrologers, most people observed Bhaitika at 11.31 am, the most auspicious time for the ritual. The practice continued throughout the day Sunday after the auspicious time.

According to the ritual, sisters put multi-colour Tika on their brothers and pray for their prosperity, good health and longevity.

In turn, brothers provided gifts to their sisters. Bhaitika is considered as 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.

Meanwhile, the Newar community is observing Bhaitika on Monday. They observed Mha Puja (worshipping of body) on Sunday and will observe the Bhaitika on Monday.

The government has declared Monday a public holiday as most Newars observe the Bhaitika on Monday. 

nepalnews.com