Kukur Tihar, the festival of dogs, is being celebrated across the nation to mark the second day of Yamapanchak or Tihar festival on Sunday. Tihar is the second biggest festival of the Nepali Hindus.

Dog, which is an animal well known for being the trustworthy sentry as well as faithful companion of humans since ancient times, is worshipped once a year on this day.

People worship the dog, garland it and offer delicious food today.

Dog, which is said to have accompanied Dharmaraj Yudhisthir on his journey to heaven in the mythological grand epic Mahabharat, has a close relationship with mankind.

On the second day of the Yamapanchak, Laxmi, the Goddess of wealth, will be worshipped in the evening with jubilation and various religious rituals throughout the country by time-honoured tradition.

All the nooks and corners of the house including the courtyard and rooms are illuminated with colourful and decorative lights this evening in the belief that Goddess Laxmi does not visit places that are not properly illuminated, and to please Goddess Laxmi, people light lamps and spend the whole night in vigil.