President Paudel wishes peace, prosperity to all

BY A STAFF REPORTER, Kathmandu, Feb. 15: President Ramchandra Paudel has extended his best wishes for happiness, peace and prosperity to all Nepalis at home and abroad on the auspicious occasion of Maha Shivaratri.

In a message issued on Saturday, the President stated that Nepal’s distinctive contribution to Sanatan culture, closely linked to nature, yoga, and human life, remains a matter of pride. The presence of the sacred Pashupatinath Temple in Nepal is not only a source of national pride but also of deep reverence for Hindus worldwide.

The message read that ancient scriptures describe the Pashupati area and the Himalayan region as the abode of Lord Shiva, making Nepal a centre of spiritual contemplation and pilgrimage. While Vedic tradition regards Shiva as a force of destruction, he embodies both benevolent and fierce forms, symbolising the creative and transformative powers of nature. The maxim ‘Satyam Shivam Sundaram’ reflects this enduring philosophy.

Observances such as fasting, night vigil and special worship mark the festival, which is believed to bring spiritual awakening and liberation.

On the occasion, the President called for the preservation and promotion of religious and cultural heritage, including the Pashupati area, and stressed the collective responsibility to keep the Bagmati River clean. He also hoped that the festival would inspire spiritual renewal in all.

VP Yadav complements 

Meanwhile, Vice President Ramsahay Prasad Yadav has extended best wishes for happiness, peace, prosperity, good health, and further progress to all Nepali sisters and brothers at home and abroad.

VP Yadav stated that Maha Shivratri, the great festival of Hindus, has been strengthening religious devotion, social unity and cultural pride. The tradition of worshipping at Shiva temples and singing hymns, original dances and fairs on this day has kept our culture alive and has also contributed to tourism and the economy. 

Shiva worship, fasting and meditation encourage self-purification and spiritual progress, creating an atmosphere of harmony, cooperation and reconciliation in society. I pray that this festival will inspire everyone to abandon lust, anger, greed, attachment and ego and embark on the path of truth, religion, peace and love, said VP Yadav.

Army Day, celebrated on this day, provides an opportunity to remember the courage and dedication of the Nepali Army. "We are proud of the brave soldiers who have shown their service spirit by standing at the forefront of the nation's security, honour, and in times of disaster. Army Day inspires all of us to contribute unitedly to the defence, development, and prosperity of the country."

In today's era, building an army that is proficient in cutting-edge technology, efficiency, and research is a national necessity. I express my best wishes that everyone's attention be focused on strengthening and modernising the Nepali Army and on strengthening the national interest, said VP Yadav.