Losar: The Lunar New Year

Losar, meaning “New Year” in the Sherpa language (“Lo” for year and “Sar” for new), marks the beginning of the year for Himalayan communities that follow the Lunar Calendar. It is one of the most significant festivals for these communities, celebrated on the first day of the first lunar month, typically falling in February or March according to the Gregorian calendar. Due to the shorter annual cycle of the Sherpa-Tibetan Lunar Calendar, Losar shifts by one month every three years compared to other calendar systems.

Types of Losar

There are two main types of Tibetan New Year celebrations:

• Sonam Losar: Observed in the twelfth Tibetan month by farmers, as they become occupied with their fields by the first month of the new year.

• Gyalpo Losar: Celebrated in the first month by religious communities, officials, and businesspeople, usually in February. The first fifteen days of this month commemorate Chötrul Düchen, honoring the miracles performed by Buddha.

Monthly Observances and Religious Practices

Throughout the Tibetan calendar, certain days are dedicated to religious observances:

• 8th day – Sangye Menla (Medicine Buddha) is honored.

• 10th day – Tse Chu, marking Guru Rinpoche’s return to earth.

• 15th day – Opame, the Buddha of Infinite Light, is celebrated.

• 30th day – Recognized as an auspicious day for the Buddha.

Key Buddhist Festivals

• Saga Dawa (4th month): Considered the most sacred month, commemorating the Buddha’s birth (7th day) and enlightenment (15th day).

• Drukpa Tse Shi (6th month, 4th day): Observes the Buddha’s first teachings.

• Lhabab Düchen (9th month, 22nd day): Celebrates the Buddha’s descent from heaven after teaching his mother.

Seasonal Pujas

In each village, pujas (ceremonial prayers) are conducted twice a year, in spring and autumn, to bless and protect the crops and fields.