Kathmandu, January 30, 2025, the Tamang community in Nepal is celebrating Sonam Lhosar, their traditional New Year festival. This day marks the beginning of the 2861st year according to the Manjushree Calendar.
Sonam Lhosar is observed annually on the first day of Magh Shukla Pratipada, which corresponds to the second new moon after the winter solstice. The festival is characterized by vibrant cultural events, traditional music and dance, and the preparation of special delicacies. In Kathmandu, celebrations are notably held in areas like Tudikhel, where community members gather to partake in the festivities.
The term ‘Sonam’ refers to the Tamang people, while ‘Lhosar’ combines ‘Lho’ meaning year and ‘Sar’ meaning new, signifying the New Year. The festival also involves various rituals aimed at driving away evil spirits and welcoming the gods and goddesses.
Traditional foods such as khapsey (a type of fried pastry), babar (a rice-based bread), and thongsey are commonly prepared and enjoyed during this time. People dress in traditional attire, adorn themselves with jewelry, and engage in dances accompanied by instruments like the damphu, a small round drum.
Sonam Lhosar is not only a time for celebration but also an occasion for the Tamang community to honor their rich cultural heritage and strengthen social bonds.
The cultural festival of Tamang community has started in Losar Tundikhel. The second day of Lhosar, which is celebrated as a three-day festival, was celebrated in Tundikhel on Wednesday with various programs. The atmosphere of Lhosar started in Tundikhel from Tuesday, but on Wednesday, various programs were held. In Tundikhel on Wednesday from 8 am to 12 pm, a special worship was done by Tamang Bonbo. Fapare Hway is presented from 1 pm to 4 pm. From 4 to 5 p.m., horse riding and mane dance are over, and by 7 p.m., Lhosar Eve is celebrated with candle lights and firework, bidding farewell to the year of Duk (Eagle) and welcoming the New Year.
