Kukur Tihar, the festival dedicated to the worship of dogs, is being celebrated across the country on Monday.

Dogs have been considered faithful companions to humans since ancient times, for which they are often regarded as the symbol of loyalty and trust. On this day, people worship the canines with vermilion powder, garland them and offer delicious food.

The day is observed every year on the second day of Tihar.

Laxmi Puja, which usually falls on the third day of Tihar, will be simultaneously observed on Monday this year per the Lunar (Tithi) calendar.

Post Photographer Elite Joshi took some photos of the festival being observed at Sneha’s Care, a shelter organisation dedicated to the rescue and welfare of street dogs, at Bhaisepati, Lalitpur.

The organisation provides shelter and care to 170 dogs, including those with disabilities, paralysis and injuries.