Losar 2025

Losar Meanning

The word "Lo" means "year" and the word "Sar" translates to "new".

Check Your Credit Score Now

How is Losar Celebrated (Tibetan New Year)?

Pre-Buddhist Losar involved burning of incense sticks as a ritual to please the local Gods. It was believed that pleasing the Gods would contribute to the wellbeing of the local people. In the modern day, Losar is celebrated for three days. However, pre-celebrations are a part of the festival and begins from the month before Losar happens. It starts with the commemoration of eight auspicious symbols related to the festival, including parasol, conch shell, vase, and victory banner, among others. Each of these symbols is related to Buddhism. 

Cleaning the house, especially the kitchen, and preparing special Tibetan dishes are a part of the first day of the festival. A special soup with dumplings in it and a special Tibetan noodle called Guthuk are two of the many dishes that are served during the festival.

On the second day, religious ceremonies take place in various monasteries. Firecrackers are set off to keep the evil spirits at bay. Local people also present gifts to the monks as a gesture of thanks.

The third day is the New Year's Day. Waking up early, wearing new clothes, and offering prayers to the Gods is a custom that's followed on this day. People celebrate by eating "kapse"—a type of cake and drinking "chang"—an alcoholic beverage.

You can visit the monasteries in India to be a part of this cultural festival that champions the Tibetan culture.

Other Holidays in February

1. Lui-Ngai-Ni
2. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti
3. Mizoram State Day
4. Arunachal Pradesh Statehood Day
5. Guru Ravidas Jayanti
6. Maha Shivaratri
7. Vasant (Basant) Panchami

Month Wise Holidays in India

1. Holidays in January
2. Holidays in February
3. Holidays in March
4. Holidays in April
5. Holidays in May
6. Holidays in June
7. Holidays in July
8. Holidays in August
9. Holidays in September
10. Holidays in October
11. Holidays in November
12. Holidays in December

Trading Holidays in India

1. BSE Holidays
2. NSE Holidays
3. MCX Holidays

Know Your Credit Score for FREE

A good credit score can help you secure lower interest rates on loans and credit cards.

Get Free Credit Score

FAQs on Losar

• When does Losar typically occur?

  The date of Losar varies each year as it follows the lunar calendar. It usually falls between late January and early March. 

• Can anyone participate in Losar celebrations?

  Yes, Losar celebrations are inclusive, welcoming people from various backgrounds to join in the festivities fostering a sense of community. 

• How long does Losar last?

  Losar is a 15-day celebration, with festivities extending over two weeks, encompassing various rituals, gatherings, and cultural activities. 

• What cultural significance does Losar hold in Tibetan communities?

  Losar is of immense cultural importance, symbolizing the Tibetan New Year and representing the triumph of good over evil. It incorporates unique traditions, rituals, and festive celebrations. 

• Why does the date of Losar vary each year?

  The date of Losar fluctuates annually due to its connection to the lunar calendar. This reliance on lunar cycles emphasizes the close ties between Tibetan cultural practices and celestial rhythms, highlighting a connection to nature. 

• What are some customary practices and rituals associated with Losar preparations?

  Preparing for Losar involves extensive cleaning of homes to dispel negativity, adorning spaces with auspicious symbols, and crafting special foods like Guthuk. Each element carries symbolic significance in Tibetan culture. 

• How do people in Tibetan communities exchange greetings during Losar, and what do these greetings signify?

  In celebrating Losar, individuals exchange greetings such as "Tashi Delek," conveying wishes for good fortune, health, and auspiciousness. These greetings reinforce positive sentiments for the approaching year and foster a sense of communal well-being.

• What is Guthuk, and why does it play a central role in Losar celebrations?

  Guthuk is a noodle soup crafted with concealed ingredients, each holding symbolic meanings. It takes a central place in Losar celebrations, symbolizing the purification of negativity and the anticipation of a fresh start in the New Year. 

• How do astrological considerations contribute to Losar celebrations?

  Astrology is integral to Losar, involving practices like consulting the astrological calendar to identify auspicious times for various activities. This ensures a harmonious and positive commencement to the New Year. 

• What is the significance of Cham dance during Losar?

  Traditional performances like the Cham dance are vibrant components of Losar celebrations, showcasing cultural richness, spirituality, and historical narratives. These performances contribute to the festive atmosphere and cultural identity. 

• How has the celebration of Losar evolved over time?

  Modern Losar celebrations seamlessly blend traditional customs with contemporary events, including cultural performances, public gatherings, and community activities. This evolution reflects a dynamic and inclusive approach to the festivities. 

• Are there specific rituals or ceremonies during Losar?

  Losar rituals often encompass lighting butter lamps, making offerings, and engaging in prayers to invoke positive energies and blessings for the community's spiritual well-being in the upcoming year.