KATHMANDU: Nepal Sambat 1147 is being celebrated across the country today with cultural programmes, rallies and the exchange of greetings, marking the beginning of the New Year for the Newar community.
The Newar community in the Kathmandu Valley, other parts of the country and abroad is observing the occasion with various traditional and cultural activities.
In Kathmandu, a colourful rally featuring cultural tableaux, traditional musical instruments and participants dressed in traditional attire was organised from Basantapur. Members of various organisations, cultural groups and the general public from the Newar community took part in the procession.
Nepal Sambat is regarded as the original calendar of Nepal and an important symbol of the country’s history, culture and national identity. According to historical accounts, national luminary Shankhadhar Sakhwa introduced the calendar in 880 AD (937 BS) after freeing people in the Kathmandu Valley from their debts. Since then, the Newar community has been celebrating its commencement as the New Year.
Various cultural programmes and traditional activities are organised annually to preserve and promote Nepal Sambat and its historical and cultural significance.
The Newar community also observes Mha Puja on the first day of Nepal Sambat. The ritual involves worshipping one’s own body and soul as a way of recognising the importance of self-purification, well-being and spiritual awareness.
On the occasion, family members gather at their homes and prepare elaborate mandalas (mandaps) to perform the worship. They offer prayers for good health, longevity, happiness, peace and prosperity in the coming year.
Nepal Sambat and Mha Puja together reflect the Newar community’s rich cultural heritage, philosophical traditions and emphasis on family bonds, social harmony and individual well-being.
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