Ilam, Dec 4: Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Sudan Kirati warned everyone concerned not to envy the religious and cultural tolerance of Nepal.
Stating that several activities intending to disturb the religious and cultural tolerance were on the rise lately, Minister Kirati clarified those activities will not be accepted.
Inaugurating a programme organized to mark the 70th birth anniversary of Kirati spiritual leader Atmananda Lingden at Mangsebung in Ilam district on Monday, Kirati asserted that the alternative to secularism was unthinkable.
Kirati leader Atmananda Lingden was born in what today is known as Mangsebung in Ilam district on this day of the Nepali month of Mangsir in 2011 BS.
“All ethnic communities and people of all faiths flourish equally in secularism. This is the beautiful aspect of democracy. Do not try to reinstate the old governance system. It is not possible.”Furthermore, he urged one and all not to seek alternative to democratic republic achieved by dint of sacrifies from the thousands.
The Minister, who arrived Mansebung village known as vegetarian village for the first time, underscored development and promotion of tourism suiting the soil of Nepal.
“Nepal is unique in terms of religion and culture. Tourism should be developed based on these characteristics,” Minister Kirati said, adding, “Mangsebung is the only vegetarian area in the country. If tourism here is promoted as a vegetarian area, it could be transformed into the best tourist site of the country.”
According to him, Mangsebung was developed as a religious tourism spot after Kirati religious leader Atmananda Lingden was born and spent his life here.
Kirati opined that this place could be developed as a cultural tourism site as Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha.
On the occasion, Minister Kirati received the demand letter presented by the local residents of Mangsebung and pledged to develop this area as a cultural tourism site.
