Kathmandu, 14 April: Today marks the beginning of the Nepali New Year 2083 (Bikram Sambat). The New Year is celebrated as a time of enthusiasm, new energy, and fresh beginnings. On the first day of Baisakh, people across the country are celebrating with joy, exchanging शुभकामना (good wishes) with one another.
Around the world, New Year is observed as a special festival, and in Nepal, Baisakh 1 is traditionally celebrated as New Year’s Day. The Bikram Sambat calendar is considered one of the oldest calendars in use, and today is its first day. This day also marks the transition of the sun from Pisces (Meen Rashi) to Aries (Mesh Rashi), known as Baisakh Sankranti or Mesh Sankranti. Experts say that since the Bikram Sambat calendar is based on the movement of the sun, it is scientifically grounded and eternal in nature.
According to scholars, as the sun enters Aries and completes its cycle from Pisces, the old year ends and the new year begins, making the system scientifically significant. On this day, individuals reflect on the successes and failures of the past year, resolve not to repeat mistakes, and make plans to achieve success in the coming year.
Traditionally, people wake up early, take a bath, clean their homes and surroundings, visit temples for पूजा (worship) and दर्शन (prayers), enjoy delicious food, and meet friends and relatives to exchange शुभकामना (best wishes).
Nepalis around the world celebrate Baisakh 1 as New Year’s Day. In Bhaktapur, the famous Biska Jatra is also observed today. In the Terai region, the blooming of the Sahalesh Flower Bloom on this day adds special cultural importance.
On the occasion of the New Year, Ram Chandra Poudel, Ram Sahaya Prasad Yadav, and other dignitaries have extended their wishes messages, wishing for the progress, prosperity, and well-being of all Nepalis.
PM Balen Shah Extends Best Wishes to all
Prime Minister Balen Shah has extended his शुभकामना (best wishes) to all citizens for happiness, peace, and prosperity on the occasion of the New Year 2083.
Issuing a शुभकामना message via social media on Tuesday morning, he recalled a famous Sanskrit verse and wished for the good health and well-being of everyone. Prime Minister Shah wrote on social media: “Sarve bhavantu sukhinah, sarve santu niramayah; Sarve bhadrani pashyantu, ma kashchid dukhabhag bhavet.”
Explaining the meaning of the verse, he expressed hope that happiness, good health, and well-being prevail in everyone’s life. “May everything always be auspicious, may there be no obstacles, and may suffering be eliminated,” Balen said. “On this sacred occasion marking the beginning of the New Year 2083, I extend my heartfelt शुभकामना for happiness, peace, and prosperity to all.”
On the first day of the New Year today, leaders of political parties, elected representatives, and distinguished personalities are continuing to extend their शुभकामना to Nepalis at home and abroad through social media. In this context, Prime Minister Shah also conveyed his wishes for the well-being of all through the Sanskrit verse.
