Government Declares Public Holiday on Sonam Lhosar, NEPSE to Remain Closed on Wednesday

The government has decided to grant a public holiday on Wednesday (tomorrow) on the occasion of Sonam Lhosar. The Home Ministry said in a statement today that it had decided to grant public leave on Wednesday.

According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, it has been decided to grant public leave to all government offices and public organizations across the country on Wednesday, i.e. Magh 19.

As such, NEPSE will also remain closed on Wednesday.

Sonam Lhosar is a new year festival of the Tamang and Yolmo people of Nepal and the Sikkim and Darjeeling regions of India. It falls on the second new moon after the winter solstice which is usually the Magh Sukla Pratipada based on the eastern lunar calendar.

In Sonam Lhosar the Tamang people visit monasteries and stupas where special rituals with mask dance are performed to drive away evil spirits. The houses and surroundings are cleaned to welcome gods and goddesses.

Pork, chicken, mutton, fish, and sweet desserts are consumed. People wear traditional dresses and jewelry to participate in cultural events and exchange greetings with each other. Tamang Selo and the Damphu are played.