KBiratchowk: Nepal Sambat, a significant calendar system in Nepal, has entered its 1145th year today, Saturday. The New Year begins on the day of Kattik Shukla Pratipada.
Shankhadhar Sakhwa, a historical figure, is credited with initiating Nepal Sambat in 937 BS (AD 880) by alleviating the debts of impoverished people. In recognition of this noble act, Prime Minister Krishna Prasad Bhattarai declared Sakhwa a National Bibhuti on the New Year’s Day of Nepal Sambat 2056. Subsequently, Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal officially recognized Nepal Sambat as a national calendar in 2065 BS.
To mark the occasion, the Newar community is observing ‘Mha Puja’ (self-worship) today. This annual ritual, performed on Kartik Shukla Pratipada, is a celebration of the human soul. Theologian Prada Ramachandra Gautam explained that self-worship is a classical tradition that emphasizes the importance of self-satisfaction. By cultivating inner peace and contentment, individuals can gain the blessings of divine entities.
The tradition of self-worship is prevalent in various Newar communities across the Kathmandu Valley, including Lalitpur, Bhaktapur, Banepa, Dhulikhel, Panauti, Bahrabise, and Chautara.
Additionally, there’s a longstanding practice in Kathmandu of closing old account books on Kartik Krishna Aunsi and opening new ones on New Year’s Day, Kartik Shukla Pratipada.
