Tamu Lhosar, the Gurung New Year festival, celebrated around late December or early January, or roughly mid-Poush (15th of Poush), is here to sweep away the old and welcome the new with prayer flags, feasts, and festive vibes!
“Tamu” refers to the Gurung ethnic group and “Lhosar” meaning “New Year” in the Tibetan language. It marks the end of the harvest and the beginning of a new year. The lunar calendar is used to identify the precise date of this festival. Hundreds of groups who participate in a sizable cultural exhibition for this occasion.
Image source: Indigenous voice
Who Celebrates Tamu Lhosar?
Tamu Lhosar is a deeply rooted Buddhist tradition, celebrated with great enthusiasm by the people belonging to the Gurung community, who primarily resides in Nepal. Although it is primarily a Gurung festival, people from various communities join in, adding to the excitement and unity of the occasion too—because when it comes to Tamu Lhosar, the more, the merrier!
How Is Tamu Lhosar Celebrated?
Let’s dive into how this unmissable festival is celebrated! This celebration is a time for family, feasting, and culture with some key elements, mentioned below:
- Prayers and Rituals: The celebration starts with prayers and rituals honoring the ancestors and deities. Families come to pray and seek blessings for a prosperous new year.
- Festive attire: People dress up in traditional Gurung costumes to offer respect towards their culture. Clothing with brilliant colors and exquisite patterns reflects the community’s rich cultural past.
- Cultural performances: The performances include traditional dances such as the Chandi Dance and Ghatu Dance, which are accompanied by soulful music and rhythmic drumming instruments.
- Feasting and Amusement: Families and friends get together to taste delicious traditional foods like Sel Roti, Khapse, Gutung, Pickles, and Meat Dishes which are often complemented by locally made alcoholic beverages like Tongba, Jaad, etc.
A Celebration with Ancient Roots
Tamu Lhosar is a lively festival that holds a history that exists even before Buddhism! Long before the arrival of Buddha, Gurungs celebrated a mid-winter festival involving the burning of incense. With roots in ancient Tibetan traditions, the Gurung community has long rejoiced in this festival.
This ancient practice has evolved into the joyous Tamu Lhosar we know today, which shows the cultural richness and diversity of Nepal. It has helped the Gurung community preserve their identity and foster unity.
Embracing the Spirit of Tamu Lhosar
Tamu Lhosar is more than a new year—it is about culture, joy, and togetherness. Everyone is welcome to join this colorful celebration and share the happiness all around!
As prayer flags flutter and the spirit of renewal fills the air, Tamu Lhosar serves as a reminder to embrace happiness, gratitude, and unity. Whether you are a member of the Gurung community or a culture enthusiast, this event welcomes everyone to partake in the joy and togetherness.
By celebrating Tamu Lhosar, we not only honor the past but also contribute to protecting Nepal’s diverse traditions for future generations. Happy Tamu Lhosar!
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