Tihar: Balancing Tradition, Modernity, and Cultural Heritage
Bhaktapur – As the festival of Tihar draws near, the historic city of Bhaktapur comes alive with lights, colors, and age-old traditions. At the heart of this preparation is the Kumal community, who are working tirelessly to craft clay pots, or diyos, that hold both religious and cultural significance. The famed ‘Pottery Square Swayer’ has become a hive of activity, with local artisans, primarily from the Prajapati community, rushing to meet the seasonal demand.
Traditionally, these clay lamps have symbolized light, purity, and prosperity during Tihar, illuminating homes and courtyards while honoring gods, goddesses, and ancestral spirits. Despite the growing popularity of electric lights and flashy decorative bulbs, diyos remain a vital part of Tihar rituals, reminding families of the festival’s spiritual essence. Cultural experts note that while modern lights offer convenience and visual appeal, the glow of an oil lamp carries a deeper symbolic resonance, connecting the present generation with centuries of Nepali heritage.
The festival also provides a significant economic boost for local artisans. The production and sale of clay lamps, especially in tourist-frequented areas like Bhaktapur, generate livelihoods for many families and showcase Nepal’s rich craftsmanship to domestic and international visitors. Seasonal demand during Tihar often leads to full-capacity workshops, reflecting both the resilience of traditional industries and their ongoing relevance in a modernizing society.
However, the festival also highlights the tension between tradition and modernization. Urban households increasingly favor electric lights, which are easier to maintain and brighter for decoration, sometimes reducing the use of traditional oil lamps. Yet, many families consciously preserve the practice of lighting diyos, balancing modern convenience with ritualistic authenticity. This blend of old and new reflects a broader trend across Nepal, where cultural preservation coexists with contemporary lifestyles.
Experts believe that sustaining traditional practices like clay lamp-making is essential not only for cultural continuity but also for local economies. Festivals like Tihar serve as a bridge between generations, where artisans pass down skills, families uphold rituals, and communities celebrate shared identity. Even as lighting technology evolves, the humble glow of a clay diyo continues to illuminate homes and hearts, symbolizing hope, prosperity, and the enduring spirit of Nepalese culture.
In a time of rapid modernization, Tihar stands as a reminder that while trends change, the essence of light, both literal and symbolic, remains central to Nepal’s cultural fabric, connecting heritage, economy, and spirituality in a luminous celebration of life.
