Hindus across the country are celebrating Bhaitika on Thursday, the final day of Tihar, also known as Yam Panchak.

Sisters apply a seven-coloured tika on their brother’s forehead and offer garlands, wishing for their long life, good health, and prosperity. Brothers reciprocate with tika and gifts, expressing gratitude and protection.

Bhaitika is marked on the fifth day of Tihar, the second biggest festival in Nepal. The day is also called Yama Dwitiya.

Nepal Calendar Determination Committee member Professor Devmani Bhattarai said the tradition of honouring sisters is believed to bring continuous prosperity and well-being to the family.

Although tika can be received throughout the day, the committee had set 11:39am as the most auspicious time. Chairman Professor Shambhu Prasad Dhakal said sisters offering tika should sit facing east, and brothers receiving it should sit facing west. The guidance is based on the position of the Moon in the Libra sign, which religious texts suggest should be ahead or to the right during auspicious rituals.

For those without siblings, the Balgopaleshwar Temple at Ranipokhari opens today. The temple opens only once a year on Bhaitika. People who do not have brothers or sisters visit the shrine for worship and to receive a tika on this occasion.