Nepalese New Year for 2081 draws overseas visitors to the golden west
NOT all of us celebrate the New Year at the same time, with Dubbo’s growing Nepalese population, commemorating the start of their year 2081 under the Bikram Sambat Calendar over the weekend.
The actual date for the New Year for Hindu Nepalese was on Saturday, April 13 with the occasion usually a special celebration that includes traditional dress, parades, parties, family gatherings, colourful ornaments, and feasts. This religious holiday is also observed with the hope of blessings and prosperity in the year ahead.
In this tradition, the local event – organised by the Dubbo Nepalese Community Australia at Regand Park – featured kids’ games, dancing, a pizza party for the kids, and a picnic-style dinner for the adults with both locals and international visitors enjoying the occasion, DNCA President, Sunil Bhandari, revealed.
“There were more than 400 participants in attendance, including parents who travelled from overseas to join the celebration along with their children,” Mr Bhandari said.
“The day featured engaging kids’ games, a delightful pizza party for the little ones, and a picnic-style dinner for all attendees,” he added.
DNCA’S mission, he said, is encapsulated in their motto “Embracing Heritage, Empowering Community: One Heart, Many Cultures,” a philosophy which drove this event.
“We are committed to fostering cultural diversity and unity within the community, providing opportunities for individuals to experience and appreciate different cultures, foods, and traditions.
“As a community dedicated to promoting harmony through multicultural events, we are eager to share the joy and vibrancy of our Nepalese New Year celebration with a wider audience,” Mr Bhandari concluded.