KATHMANDU: Speaker of the House of Representatives, Devraj Ghimire, has stated that festivals like Maghe Sankranti play a vital role in strengthening social harmony, mutual understanding, and national unity, while reinforcing democratic values and the spirit of coexistence.

In his message on the occasion of Maghe Sankranti and Maghi, Ghimire extended heartfelt wishes for happiness, peace, good health, and prosperity to all Nepalis living at home and abroad.

He described the festival as a symbol of warmth, hope, and renewed energy, marking the farewell of winter and the arrival of brighter days.

He noted that Maghe Sankranti has become an important cultural emblem of faith, tradition, and social unity in Nepali society.

“Celebrated as Maghi by the Tharu community, as a national festival by the Magar community, as Ghyu-Chaku Sanlhu by the Newar community, and as Nahan by various Madhesi communities, these diverse traditions reflect our shared national identity,” Ghimire said.

He further highlighted that the festival, which marks the sun’s transition into its northward journey, reminds people of the deep connection between human life and nature.

Rituals such as holy bathing, worship, charity, and the consumption of nutritious traditional foods like ghee, chaku, sesame, yam, and khichdi contribute to fostering a nature-friendly and value-based society.

Ghimire expressed hope that the festival would inspire positivity, social responsibility, and collective progress toward prosperity.

NA Chair Dahal Highlights Maghi’s Role in Strengthening National Unity

National Assembly Chairperson Narayan Prasad Dahal also extended warm greetings on the occasion of Maghi and Maghe Sankranti, expressing confidence that the festival strengthens national unity, religious harmony, and social cohesion.

He emphasized that the festival reflects respect for labor culture, the historical evolution of human civilization, and Nepal’s indigenous traditions. Dahal stressed the importance of unity amid diversity.

“Our Constitution, achieved through immense sacrifice and struggle, embraces multi-ethnic, multilingual, multi-religious, and multicultural characteristics along with geographical diversity,” his message stated. “It is this diversity that gives Nepal a distinct identity in the world.”

Mayor Balen Calls for a New Beginning and Prosperity

Kathmandu Metropolitan City Mayor Balen Shah (Balen) also extended his greetings through a special message on social media, describing Maghe Sankranti as not only a seasonal transition but also a celebration of Nepal’s rich cultural diversity.

Quoting a famous patriotic song, he wrote:
“Different rhythms, one melody; different steps, one path; we are all Nepalis, and Nepal is our home.”

Mayor Shah explained the astronomical significance of the day, marking the sun’s entry into Capricorn. He highlighted how the festival is celebrated under different names and customs across communities.

According to him, the Newar community observes it as Ghyah Chaku Sanlhu, the Kirat community welcomes it as the New Year of Yal Sambat, while the Tharu community celebrates it as Maghi — one of their most important cultural festivals.

“Names and traditions may differ, but the emotion remains the same — to come together, celebrate, and spread joy,” Shah wrote.

Wishing for a wave of new beginnings and prosperity, the mayor concluded with warm greetings to all Nepalis.