Bhai Tika is the fifth and final day of celebration during Diwali (or Tihar) in Nepal, and marks the bond between brother and sister. These bonds continue to strengthen at the Hope Centre, meaning the children grow up with a solid and loving support network. (fb)

Our friends in Nepal have been celebrating Diwali. Diwali, derived from the Sanskrit term dipavali meaning “row of lights”, celebrates the victory of light over darkness. One of the most notable aspects of this colourful festival is Lakshmi Puja. Occurring on the third day, festival goers seek blessings from Lakshmi (the Hindu to goddess of wealth, good fortune, beauty, and abundance). Part of the celebrations involves lighting oil-filled clay lamps (known as diyas), and placing them around homes and places of worship. One of the most striking parts of the festival is the creation of rangoli, a practise of making colourful patterns from coloured rice, sand, or flower petals. These artworks are particularly beautiful when displayed at night surrounded by the light of diyas. We wish all of our partners, collaborators, and friends in Nepal and around the World a wonderful Diwali. (fb)