KATHMANDU: The Tamang community is celebrating Sonam Lhosar, the New Year festival observed annually on Magh Shukla Pratipada, with enthusiasm and various cultural programs across the country today.
According to the Manjushree calendar, the year 2862 has begun today. With the conclusion of the Year of the Snake, the Year of the Horse has commenced. Sonam Lhosar follows a 12-year cycle represented by animals and birds such as rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon (cloud), snake, horse, sheep, monkey, bird, dog, and pig.
Researcher Tika Sherpa said that the naming of years after animals and birds reflects the tradition of nature worship embedded in Lhosar culture. The festival is primarily celebrated in districts of Bagmati Province, where the Tamang population is significant.
Various programs are being organized in the capital to mark the occasion. The Boudhanath Area Development Committee has announced celebrations in the Buddhist heritage area, while Nepal Tamang Ghedung has begun a three-day series of programs at Tundikhel starting Saturday. Similar celebrations are also taking place in the Swayambhu area.
Believed to be a tradition dating back around 4,700 years, Sonam Lhosar is also celebrated in countries such as China, Mongolia, Japan, Vietnam, Thailand, Taiwan, Malaysia, and Singapore. In Nepal, the festival is observed not only by the Tamang community but also by Hyolmo, Manange, Dolpo, Thakali, Jirel, Dura, and some Sherpa communities.
As part of the celebrations in Kathmandu, a Lhosar festival is being held at Tundikhel from Sunday. The main organizing committee said the event will feature special cultural tableaux, traditional songs and dances of the Tamang community, performances by Tamba, Bonbo, and Lamas, as well as shows by nationally and internationally renowned artists.
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