KATHMANDU: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has praised Shankhadhar Shakhwa — who started Nepal Sambat on October 20, 879 AD — for his contributions to the Nepali society.

In the message today, PM Oli wished peace, happiness, prosperity, progress and good health to all Nepali brothers and sisters living in and outside the country on the occasion of Tihar and Nepal Sambat 1139.

On the occasion, the PM recalled Shakhwa who had paid off all debts of peasants burdened by them 1,139 years ago when Nepal Sambat started. He said Shakhwa, the symbol of national greatness was a campaigner on justice and equality issues.

He said, "Nepal Sambat reflects philanthropic emotion present in Nepali culture." The PM added, "Nepal Sambat inspires to retain the dignified social norms and values of Nepali society."

(With inputs from Rastriya Samachar Samiti)