October 26: The fourth day of Tihar is celebrated by worshipping the oxen. This day is also called Govardan Puja, named after a hill mentioned in the Hindu mythology.

The oxen is historically used by the locals in the rural areas for helping with crop plantation. They are worshipped by offering prayers, good food and by decorating them with garlands. The Govardan Hill, mentioned in the Hindu mythology is worshipped by the people by making a large stack of cow dung.

The rituals are linked to the Hindu God Krishna who, according to the legend, lifted the Govardhan hill with his hand and protected the people of a place called Gokul from torrential rains caused by an enraged Indra, the God of rain.    

Lord Krishna is the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu or the protector of the world.

A section of the Newar community also observes the Mha Puja today to welcomes the Newari New Year while others celebrated the Mha Puja or worshipping the self a day ago.

On this occasion, Newars prepare sweet dishes at homes and mandalas (sacred diagram as symbol of their soul) are drawn on the floor and worshipped. According to the state-owned RSS, family members sit in front of the mandalas and the eldest lady of the house presents each of them with a burning wick, sacred thread and fruits symbolising long life and good fortune.    

Today, the Newari Community also welcomes the Newari New Year--Nepal Sambar 1143.