Govardhan Pooja observed, Mhapooja tonight

KATHMANDU, Oct 29 - Govardhan pooja or Goru Tihar (Oxen Worshipping) was observed with great zeal and faith across the nation on Wednesday. The fourth day of Yamapanchaka or Tihar festival is also about worshiping oneself, especially by people from Newar community living in the Kathmandu valley, also known as ...

Oxen, that are considered as vehicle of Lord Shiva in Hinduism, are worshiped on this day as they plow lands and help grow crops to sustain life.

This is also the first day of the special annual calendar of an ethnic group known as Newar residing in Kathmandu valley.

Various groups of people get together, carry what-ever musical instruments they have or can play, and play Deusi door to door blessing the home and family in return for money and/or refreshments. Teenagers perform various Deusi songs to collect money for various purposes.

Every year, Goru Pooja or Govardhan Pooja and Mahapooja are observed on the first day of waxing moon in the month of Kartik according to the lunar calendar.

Tihar, which is also called Deepawali or the festival of lights, is celebrated from Trayodashi, the 13th day of waning moon to Dwitiya, the second day of the waxing moon, in Kartik.