Kathmandu, Nov. 10: Prime Minister (PM) Balendra Shah (Balen) has urged Nepalis to set aside differences and strengthen social unity, mutual harmony and tolerance on the occasion of Nepal Sambat 1147 and Mha Puja.

Extending his greetings to Nepalis at home and abroad through social media, Prime Minister Shah also paid tribute to national luminary Shankhadhar Sakhwa, who introduced Nepal Sambat by freeing people from debt.

In his message, Shah described Nepal Sambat as Nepal’s original lunar calendar and an important symbol of the country’s identity and heritage.

He also highlighted the philosophical and cultural significance of Mha Puja, a traditional Newar festival dedicated to the worship of the self.

According to the Prime Minister, the ritual of worshipping oneself, with the body and consciousness as witnesses and in the symbolic mandap representing the Ashta Chiranjeevi (eight immortals), carries a profound message of self-purification and spiritual awareness.

He further noted that such indigenous traditions have helped preserve ancestral culture, strengthen self-confidence and promote ethnic unity and mutual harmony within the Newar community.

Describing these festivals as a source of national pride, Shah expressed hope that Nepal’s traditional celebrations would inspire people to overcome resentment and foster greater social cohesion and tolerance.

He also wished everyone happiness, peace, prosperity and continued progress on the occasion.