Nepal Sambat 1147 dawns as Tihar reaches its final days, with Bhai Tika set for 05:22 UK time tomorrow

Nepal entered the year 1147 of Nepal Sambat today, Tuesday 10 November, as the Newar community observes Mha Puja, the ritual worship of the self, on the fourth day of Tihar. Govardhan Puja and Goru Tihar, honouring oxen, also fall today.

President Ramchandra Paudel, Vice President Ramsahay Prasad Yadav and Prime Minister Balendra Shah each issued greetings. The President described Nepal Sambat as the country's indigenous calendar, recalling the tradition that Shankhadhar Sakhwa founded the era after freeing Kathmandu Valley farmers from debt. The Vice President linked the calendar to social justice and coexistence, while the Prime Minister addressed his message to Nepalese people at home and abroad.

Because the Pratipada lunar date spans both Monday and Tuesday this year, some communities marked the New Year on Monday while others are performing Mha Puja today, so readers may see both dates in community notices.

Tihar concludes tomorrow with Bhai Tika. The Nepal Panchanga Nirnayak Samiti has fixed the auspicious time at 11:07 Nepal time on Wednesday 11 November, which is 05:22 in the UK. Families in Britain who prefer a later local ceremony should consult their own priest, as diaspora practice varies. In Nepal, the Home Ministry has permitted Deusi-Bhailo programmes to run for 24 hours under a seven-point directive, and Kathmandu Metropolitan City has suspended waste collection on 10–11 November, with services due to resume on 12 November.