Haymarket, VA:– A groundbreaking event, the inaugural Kukur Tihar USA festival, took place on October 27th, bringing together over 200 enthusiastic participants and their furry companions from the DC, Maryland, and Virginia areas. The festival, hosted by Kukur Tihar USA, celebrated Nepal’s unique cultural tradition of honoring dogs, transforming Haymarket into a vibrant hub of love, loyalty, and cultural pride.
Rooted deeply in Nepali culture, Kukur Tihar celebrates the special bond between humans and dogs, recognizing them as loyal companions and divine messengers in Hindu tradition. Jewan Tiwari (Jack Tiwari), the main organizer of the event, passionately explained the significance of this festival. “In Nepal, dogs are revered as protectors and guides to the afterlife. This festival honors them in the most heartfelt way. By bringing this tradition to the U.S., we aim to share our culture, connect with people, and celebrate dogs in a way that brings us all together.”
The event was a delightful blend of tradition and fun. Dogs, dressed in their finest, strutted down a red carpet, followed by a series of traditional Nepali ceremonies. Each canine participant received a tika (ceremonial mark) and a beautiful marigold garland, symbolizing blessings and love. Attendees were moved by the sight of proud dog owners participating in this cultural homage, showering their pets with treats and enjoying the delicious Nepali cuisine.
In a powerful inaugural speech, Tiwari invited attendees to envision Kukur Tihar as an annual event, as beloved as Christmas or Diwali, dedicated solely to honoring dogs. He proposed designating the last Sunday of October as Kukur Tihar Day in the U.S., inviting all dog lovers to participate in this joyous celebration. “Today, you all are the founding friends of Kukur Tihar in the United States,” he declared.
