From traditional songs to modern celebrations, Tihar is changing with the times and a new generation

Key Points

• Deusi-Bhailo performances are increasingly using sound systems, electronic drums and recorded songs instead of traditional instruments and original verses.
• Urbanisation, modern housing and digital entertainment have reduced old Tihar customs such as plastering homes with kamero and rato mato or playing dandi-biyo.
• The festival is expanding beyond Nepal as Nepali diaspora communities celebrate Tihar around the world.
• Younger generations and activists are pushing for more sustainable celebrations and are questioning class, caste and other inequalities tied to tradition.