Nepal, Nov. 8 -- Kukur Tihar is being celebrated across Nepal today, with people honouring dogs by putting garlands and tika on them and offering special food. The festival recognises the bond between humans and dogs, which extends far beyond religious tradition.

From guarding farms and homes to helping police investigate crimes, detect explosives and narcotics, and search for people trapped under disaster debris, dogs have long served as reliable companions to humans.

According to Hindu belief, dogs are regarded as messengers of Yamaraj, the god of death. The Mahabharata also recounts how a dog accompanied Yudhishthira on his journey to heaven, symbolising loyalty and devotion. Dogs are also associated with Lord Bhairav, which explain...