"People flock to a decorated temple in Kathmandu, Nepal, on O..."

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18 October 2025

People flock to a decorated temple in Kathmandu, Nepal, on October 17, 2025, as they prepare to celebrate Tihar or Diwali. During Tihar, people light earthen lamps and candles in their homes for three days while performing Pooja for Goddess Laxmi. It is believed that Goddess Laxmi showers blessings on houses that glow with lights throughout the night. Laxmi Pooja and the worship of the cow are performed on the same day because Goddess Laxmi emerged bearing a lotus along with a divine cow when the Devata (Gods) and Asuras (Demons) churned the ocean of milk (Ksheera Sagara), as stated in the Vishnu Purana. On the occasion of Laxmi Pooja, also known as Diwali, people in Nepal and India do not let any nook or corner of the house remain dark and light lamps, candles, and lights to appeal to Goddess Laxmi for blessings. The Pooja is especially performed by the ladies of the family in the presence of all members, reciting the Sri Sukta hymn with the offering of coconut, which is believed to appease Goddess Laxmi.

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