Kathmandu, Feb 10: Today, with great joy and festivity, the Tamang community celebrates Sonam Lhosar on Magh Shukla Pratipada, marking the transition from the Year of the Rat to the Year of the Cow.

Sonam Lhosar, celebrated annually on Magh Shukla Pratipada, heralds the beginning of a new year and is observed with various cultural and religious rituals. The festival is intricately tied to the Tamang tradition, where the year is divided into 12 classes representing different animals such as the rat, cow, tiger, and more.

In observing Lhosar, customs include Bhoomi Puja, Kool Puja, Danakshina, Dhogbhet, lively dancing, melodious singing, indulging in delectable dishes, and exchanging heartfelt wishes. This collective celebration unites people from diverse backgrounds, including Tamang, Hyolmo, Thakali, Jirel, Nesyangwa, Bhote, Dura, Lepcha, and others, each observing the festival according to their unique traditions.

The festivities of Sonam Lhosar resonate vibrantly in the districts of Bagmati province, where the Tamang community predominates. In areas such as Tundikhel, Buddh, and Swayambhu in the capital, Kathmandu, various programs are organized to commemorate the occasion, fostering a sense of unity and cultural pride among participants.

As the Tamang community joyously welcomes the Year of the Cow, Sonam Lhosar stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage and traditions cherished by the Nepali people, symbolizing hope, renewal, and prosperity for the year ahead.