KATHMANDU: President Ram Chandra Paudel has stated that festivals like Gyalpo Lhosar play a significant role in fostering unity, cultural solidarity, tolerance, goodwill, and brotherhood among Nepalis.

In his message on the occasion of the Sherpa community’s Gyalpo Lhosar, the President extended his wishes for happiness, peace, and prosperity to all Nepalis, both at home and abroad.

President Paudel expressed confidence that the festival would further strengthen national unity. Gyalpo Lhosar, celebrated as the New Year by the Sherpa community, primarily residing in Nepal’s mountainous regions, falls on Shukla Pratipada in the Nepali month of Falgun.

It is also observed by Mahayana Buddhists as their New Year.

During the festival, Sherpa community members clean their homes, villages, and water sources, and they hoist new prayer flags atop their houses.

They also prepare traditional foods such as Guthuk and Khapse and exchange well-wishes to welcome the New Year.

President Paudel wished that this festival would inspire all Nepalis to unite in building a socially and economically prosperous nation.