Nepalis abroad celebrate Tihar

Nepalis in UK and Cyprus have celebrated the Tihar festival, the second greatest festivals of the Hindus, with great enthusiasm and various events this year.

Deusi and Bhailo programmes were organised in some places of the UK where a large number of Nepalis live including in Reading, London, Plumstead, Folkestone, Farnborough and Aldershot.

Bhailo programme was held for two days before the Tihar festival in Reading under the auspices of Greater Reading Nepalese Community Association.

A large number of Nepali women, children and people affiliated to various political parties participated in the Bhailo programme organised to give continuity to the tradition. "It was also an opportunity of showing unity among the community residing in the area," a statement by the association said.

According to the president of the association Arjun Basnet, more than 1,000 pounds (Rs 135,000) was collected from the Bhailo to be used by the association.

Similarly, Buddha Baraili from Cyprus said Nepalis in that country also celebrated the festival with festivities. A picnic was organised at Larna where more than 400 Nepalis from various parts of Cyprus participated.

Baraili said the event was an opportunity for deusi, introduction of Nepalis living in Cyprus and an opportunity to share experiences. The organiser, Non Resident Nepali Association (NRNA), had arranged for free buses for those willing to participate the event.

Likewise, Nepalis in Germany, with the initiation of the European Himalayan Association organised festivities on the occasion Tihar. The organisers say such events will be organised in annually. nepalnews.com ia Nov 13 07