Page 66 - Cornice_Grade 8

The recipient receives the Itaa by reciting the Sanskrit

mantras.The Itaa, according to the Newars, represents

radiance, and the ability to spread happiness. It is kept

burning for the entirety of the celebration. It is said that after

that comes “Bhai tika”, where we celebrate

the beautiful bond of siblings. We put tika on

our brothers and sisters, and express gratitude.

We convey well wishes, and give out fruits,

various gifts, and blessings. There is a

the specific pattern we follow on this

day, which is as follows: walking

in a circle, clockwise three times,

around our brothers, and throwing

a mixture of flowers on their hair.

We then put seven different colors of

Tika, the colors of the rainbow. Since

these colors reflect in the sunlight,

putting them on for our brothers symbolizes

strength, and the ability to always shine

through no matter what, like the sun.

Tihar is my favorite festival because it celebrates our diversity,

and allows all aspects of our culture to shine through, and

intertwines with important values that positively impact our

lives.

Sarah Joshi Puri
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