Kathmandu, November 10
Prime Minister Balen Shah has extended greetings on the occasion of Nepal Sambat 1147 (Nhu Daya Bhintuna) and Mha Puja.
In a greeting message shared on social media, he said Nepal Sambat, initiated by national luminary Shankhadhar Sakhwa after freeing people across the country from debt, is the country’s indigenous lunar-based calendar and an important marker of its identity.
“The significance of Mha Puja, celebrated with great enthusiasm by the Newa community on this day, is profound. ‘Mha’ refers to one’s own self and body. By recognising the consciousness within oneself and worshipping oneself on a mandala symbolising the eight immortal beings, this tradition teaches self-purification and self-awareness,” Prime Minister Shah said.
He also said this unique tradition strengthens mutual harmony, self-confidence and the preservation of ancestral culture within the Newar community, while further reinforcing ethnic unity, which he described as a matter of pride.
“On this day, according to mythology, Lord Krishna lifted Govardhan Hill to protect the people of Dwarka. In keeping with this belief, oxen, which assist in agricultural activities, are fed flour, salt and babar. Agricultural tools, including ploughs and ploughshares, are also worshipped as part of Govardhan Puja and Hali Tihar,” Prime Minister Shah said.
He expressed confidence that the melodious Bhailo songs sung the previous day and the joyful blessings exchanged by Deusi groups today would further strengthen bonds of warmth and harmony among neighbours.
“May these indigenous festivals inspire us to set aside all resentment and continually strengthen the spirit of social unity and tolerance among us,” he said.
