Mana Kukur Tihar in Nepal: Garlanded, thanked dogs for loyalty with Tilak-Aarti

The 5-day long Tihar Festival in Nepal began on 23 October. Kukur Tihar was celebrated on the second day. On this day dogs are worshiped as angels for their loyalty. The first day of the festival is Kag Tihar, in which dishes are kept on the terrace for the crows. Under Kukur Tihar, many dishes were fed to the dogs by removing tilak-garland and aarti.
Nepal Police also celebrated this festival with their dog squad. The Canine Division of the Nepal Police also organizes annual celebrations to honour dogs for their service and contribution.
One of the division's dozen dogs was awarded the title "Dog of the Year" based on his role in solving the case. In addition, medals were awarded to dogs that performed best in their particular area in solving crime mysteries, gathering evidence, assisting in search and rescue and apprehending drug dealers.
According to media reports, there are an estimated 20,000 stray dogs in the Kathmandu Valley alone. Authorities in Pokhara are microchipping dogs, while the city council of Kathmandu has launched a dog management movement to control the stray dog ​​population.