ITANAGAR, Feb 2: Governor Brig. (Dr.) B. D. Mishra (Retd.) and Chief Minister Pema Khandu have conveyed warm greetings to the people on the auspicious occasion of Losar, the new year festival of the Monpas that begins Friday.

In his message, the Governor said that people cherish Losar as it brings new hope and opportunities in their life. The festivity motivates all to look ahead with positivity and start the year with humane visions, enhanced strength, and renewed commitment. Let us share the optimism of Losar and meet the challenges in the path of our development. The revival of our traditions and cultural heritage is the only way for the realization of our dreams and fructifying our aspirations in the New Year, he said.

“A very happy Losar, first day of the Water Tiger year of 2149,” wished CM Khandu in a message this evening.

“Let’s close out the old year and bid goodbye to all its bad aspects and negativities and invite all good, auspicious things into our homes and our lives,” he added.

Buddhists mark the festival as a victory of good over evil and it is celebrated with religious fervour to ward off evil spirits and welcome the New Year with hope and joy.

“I pray Lord Buddha on this holy occasion to bestow our people with good health and prosperity. Let this year be the end of the problems and all sentient beings live in peace and harmony with nature,” the Chief Minister said in the message.