Today, Nepal is adorned with cultural celebrations as the Newar community joyously observes Nepal Sambat 1144, a historical calendar initiated by national luminary Shankhadhar Sakhwa to liberate Kathmandu Valley residents from debt.
While the campaign for national recognition gained momentum since the establishment of democracy in 2007, this year sees widespread festivities across the country, including in Kathmandu, Lalitpur, Bhaktapur, Banepa, Dhulikhel, and Dolakha.
Former Vice-Chancellor of Lumbini Buddhist University, Dr Triratna Manandhar, highlighted the significance of Nepal Sambat, stating that it enjoyed recognition as the National Sambat until the reign of Prithvi Narayan. Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, during his first premiership in 2065 BS, had announced plans for national recognition, signaling the cultural importance of this New Year celebration.
Simultaneously, the Newar community engages in Mha Puja today, a day of self-worship observed on Kartik Shukla Pratipada. Bhaktapur had already marked Nepal Sambat on Monday, aligning with the decision of the municipality. Despite some variations, the majority of the community nationwide joins in the double celebration of Nepal Sambat and Mha Puja.
Adding to the tapestry of festivities, Govardhan Puja is also commemorated today, marking the fourth day of Tihar.
This ritual involves worshipping Govardhan Parbat, creating replicas of the sacred mountain from cow dung, and honoring the ox, the vehicle of Lord Shiva.
Theologian Prof Dr Devmani Bhattarai elucidated that the tradition stems from Lord Krishna’s protection of the people of Gokul from torrential rains by lifting Govardhan mountain.
As Nepal resonates with the diverse celebrations of Nepal Sambat, Mha Puja, and Govardhan Puja, communities across the nation come together to embrace their cultural heritage and share in the spirit of festivity and reverence.