Tamangs celebrate Sonam Lhosar

Sonam Lhosar being observed in Kathmandu

Kathmandu: Tamang community of Nepal is celebrating Sonam Lhosar by exchanging greetings with one another and feasting on the occasion of the beginning of New Year with effect from January 25, 2020.

For the indigenous Tamang community, the word ‘Lho’ means year and ‘Sar’ means new. So the literal sense of Lhosar means the beginning of New Year and Sonam refers to the Tamang community. Sonam Lhosar is celebrated for at least one week with much fanfare, dance, and merrymaking in the community.

The Tamangs of Kathmandu valley observed this day in the open premises of Tundhikhle while some factions of this community celebrated the festival in smaller groups in hotel conference rooms in several areas.The festival signifies the beginning of New Year known as ‘Rat Year’ starting from January 25 and also marking the end of Pig year. The Tamang community during this festival keep houses clean, worship Lord Buddha and seek blessing from the elders.

President Bidya Devi Bhandari and Prime Minister KP Oli have solemnly conveyed their wishes to the Tamang community for peace, prosperity, and progress.