Tamang Bouddha Federation demands integration in Loshar festival

KATHMANDU, Feb 25: Tamang Bouddha Federation is organizing a two-day cultural festival at Tunkikhel, Kathmandu from February 28 to March 1 on the occasion of 2144th National Gyalpo Loshar demanding integration in Loshar Festival.

Coordinator of Festival’s main organizing committee Dr Nima Timang organizing a press conference at the Reporters’ Club Nepal today said, “Loshar celebration has been ethnic based. Gurung celebrate Tamu Loshar, Sherpa clelebrate Gyalpa Loshar, Tamang celebrate Sonam Loshar. Divisions have been created among 15 different ethnic groups in the name of celebrating this festival. Now, it should be integrated.”

Reporters’ Club Nepal’s President Rishi Dhamala speaking during the program, also criticized the divisions created within Bouddha Religion and stressed on national coherence in Loshar festival.

“If all these ethnic groups follow the same religion Buddhism, why is there divisions in Loshar? Why do we celebrate several Loshars?” said Dhamala. “The news media will help this campaign”

Buddhist religious teacher Acharya Kamal Moktan Tamang expressed his worriedness saying such divisions in celebration of Loshar among Buddhist was due to lack of knowledge of religion and highlighted on the importance of celebrating Loshar as a common festival among Buddhists.

“Loshar should be celebrated as one and according to the Buddhist calendar.” He added.

According to the rally organizer, a rally will be organized on the occasion. “The rally will start from Bouddha and will march to Tusal, Chabahil, Goushala, Ratopool, City Center, Putali Sadak and stage at Tundikhel.