Vice President Nanda Bahadur Pun has hoped the original art and culture in Nepal further fosters harmony, social amity and fraternity.

Giving a message of best wishes on the occasion of the Sonam Lhosar-2856 today, Vice President Pun said the festival like Lhosar has promoted mutual harmony, love and tolerance.

Sonam Lhosar is observed especially by the Tamang community across the country.

"Tamang community has its own aboriginal language, script, culture, tradition, customs", the Vice President said, adding that the songs, dances and musical instruments of this community has been essential identity of folk culture.

Vice President Pun also stressed that it was the state’s responsibility to promote and protect country’s every identity and culture.

Lhosar is also a new year for Tamang community. A new year, the Year of the Rat, entered with this festival this year. Last year was the Year of the Pig.