KATHMANDU, NOVEMBER 13

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' has expressed the belief that festivals including Tihar have an important role in preparing the ideological, political, economic and cultural basis of socialism while protecting and strengthening the changed political system.

In a message of best wishes today, PM Dahal extended hearty best wishes to all Nepali sisters and brothers within the country and abroad on the happy occasion of the auspicious Deepawali, the big festival of the Nepalis.

He stated that the federal democratic republic achieved from a big struggle and sacrifice has provided us with an extensive base to keep high the country's independence and dignity by strengthening internal nationality.

'Festivals including Tihar are also an important context reflecting Nepal's unique identity. This festival makes the family reunion, social harmony and unity, and national independence, strong. It deepens the contribution of birds and animals playing the role of production, labour, information and social sentinel, and their interaction with humans.

Cultural activities including Deusi Bhailo that are held during these festivals make important contribution to creating an environment of gaiety and fervor as well as to promoting culture,' the PM observed.

Stating that Nepal has remained as a place of convergence of multi-ethnic, multi-lingual and multi-cultural features as well as of immense natural resources and civilization, PM Dahal said our diverse traditions, cultures and festivals are not only the common assets but also an important basis for culturally and emotionally tying the country and the people on a thread of unity.

'The national festivals celebrated by the diverse castes, indigenous nationalities and communities are founded on natural heritage and historicity. Incorporated in such festivals are ideals like respect to labour, social feeling and amity, social co-existence, collaboration at times of challenges that come in human life and overcoming such adversities on the basis of unity,' stated the Prime Minister in his message of best wishes.