Kathmandu: Nepal on Monday celebrated New Year 2077 as per the Bikram Era calendar, amidst the nationwide lockdown to fight the deadly coronavirus in the Himalayan nation.
The calendar, which was established by Indian king Vikramaditya, was introduced by Nepal’s Shah Kings, believed to have migrated from India to Nepal centuries ago.
To celebrate the occasion, people used to throng temples, greet each other, and gather at restaurants, homes and picnic spots but this year following the coronavirus pandemic, everyone is compelled to stay at home.
The New Year or Baishakh 1 started with playing the national anthem.
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has urged people to play the national anthem from home at 8 am on the New Year day, as a tribute to those who are on the frontline in a fight against COVID-19. “Play the National Anthem,” Oli tweeted.
He requested the people to extend respect to all the medics, security personnel, emergency service staff, cleaners, supermarket staff, and everyone else striving hard for the safety of Nepal and Nepalis.
The total number of COVID-19 infections in the country has gone up to 14, including 3 Indians.
The government has imposed nationwide lockdown till April 15, which is most likely to get extended for some more time to fight the coronavirus which the Prime Minister Oli hinted during his video conference with chief ministers. (PTI)
