KATHMANDU, Nov. 13 -- 37AM is the auspicious time for receiving and offering Bhai Tika

Tihar, the second largest festival of Nepalis, has started. Also known as Yama Panchak, the festival is observed for five days.

The first day of Yam Panchak is observed as Kaag Tihar (Crow Festival) by offering food to crows. Hindus offer food to crows (Kaag), messengers of Yamraj (the God of death), on the first day of Tihar.

Though Yam Panchak began on Thursday, Kaag Tihar has fallen on Friday, according to the Nepal Calendar Fixation Committee. Similarly, Dhanwantari Jayanti, Dhan Trayodashi and Dhanteras are also being observed today.

The second day is Kukur Tihar (Dog Festival) when the Hindus worship dogs. The third day is Laxmi Pooja. People ...