Kathmandu, Nov. 11: Prime Minister (PM) Balen Shah has extended warm greetings to Nepalis at home and abroad on the occasion of Bhai Tika, calling for stronger bonds of love, trust and mutual respect between brothers and sisters.

In his message marking the festival, observed on the final day of the five-day Tihar celebrations, Shah highlighted its religious, cultural and social significance, expressing hope that the occasion would further strengthen family relationships.

Recalling the mythological story of Yamaraj and his sister Yamuna, the Prime Minister noted that Bhai Tika is associated with the tradition of sisters praying for their brothers’ long life, good health, happiness and prosperity.

According to Hindu mythology, Yamuna welcomed her brother Yamaraj with tika and prayers on Kartik Shukla Dwitiya. Pleased with her love, devotion and hospitality, Yamaraj blessed her, granting long life and protection from the fear of death to brothers who receive tika from their sisters on this auspicious day.

Shah also referred to traditional Bhai Tika rituals, in which sisters offer garlands of dubo, velvet and marigold flowers, apply seven-colour tika, perform rituals with oil and walnuts, and serve various sweets to their brothers.

In return, brothers offer gifts and dakshina to their sisters and receive their blessings.

The Prime Minister expressed hope that the festival would continue to promote affection, trust, understanding and mutual respect among siblings, further strengthening family ties across generations.