Tihar flowers likely to be in short supply due to rains

Garlands hold huge cultural significance during the festival as sisters put those made of makhamali and marigold flowers around their brothers’ necks.

Tihar celebrators this year may have to pay more and look harder for the all-important flower garlands because last week's unseasonal downpour has damaged flower fields in Nepal and India, which is its main supplier, insiders said.