Kathmandu, Jan 30: President Ram Chandra Paudel has expressed the conviction that festivals like Sonam Lhosar contribute to further consolidating the broader national unity.
In his message of best wishes on the occasion of Sonam Lhosar festival of the Tamang community today, the Head of State expressed the belief that festivals such as Sonam Lhosar would foster mutual goodwill, tolerance and the sentiment of fraternity in the Nepali society characterized by multi-ethnic, multi-lingual and multi-cultural diversity.
“I wish that the Sonam Lhosar festival further strengthens the unity among all Nepalis and gives energy to all to move ahead to build an economically and socially prosperous country,” president Paudel said.
The Sonam Lhosar is celebrated on the day of Magh Shukla Pratipada, the first day of the bright fortnight in the month of Magh as per the lunar calendar. It is the New Year festival of the Tamang community.
On this festival, the Tamang community people offer worship to their clan deity, perform nature worship and recall Buddha’s teachings, and also exchange happiness among each other amidst festive celebrations in gatherings.
Along with the Tamangs, other communities as the Hyolmo, Thakali, Jirel, Nesyangwa, Bhote, Dura, Lepcha, etc living in different parts of the country, have also been celebrating this festival according to their own customs and tradition.
Unity will help strengthen national sentiment: Vice President
Likewise, Vice President Ram Sahay Prasad Yadav has expressed the belief that a strong and deeper unity within the Nepali social diversity would help in further strengthening the national spirit of Nepal.
Extending best wishes on the occasion of Sonam Lhosar today, he said that this festival, which is a cultural heritage, should be celebrated as a symbol of identity and self-respect of all Nepalis.
“It reminds of the responsibility of protecting and promoting our indigenous traditions, culture and cultural heritage. The original and cultural dance and music organized on this occasion helps in preserving Nepali culture. I believe that the special and traditional dishes cooked in the context of Lhosar celebration have equally helped in enlivening our indigenous customs and handing them over to the new generation,” said Vice President Yadav.
The main features of this festival include nature and land worship, worship of the clan deity, charity, and exchange of greetings with each other and collective celebrations. #lhosar #nepal
