Gokarna Lamichhane – Toronto

Nepali New year falls on April 14, according to Bikram Sambat Calendar. It is a lunar calendar
based on ancient Hindu tradition. The Bikram Sambat Calendar is 56.7 years ahead of the Solar
Gregorian Calendar. It’s time for family reunion and celebrate with music, dance and food. The
Nepalese Community in Canada celebrated the Nepali New Year in parliament for the first time.

Member of Parliament Kyle Seeback in coordination with Federation of Canada Nepal Chamber
of Commerce (FCNCC) hosted its first Nepali New year program in parliament of Canada on
April 17 th , 2023 along with Lakhe dance, Kumari, musical performance (by Himalayan Vibes and
Rodhi Blues), Panche Baja (Traditional musical instrument played during marriage ceremony)
Folk dance and live singing by Buddhi Sagar Bashyal. Dancer Babu Gautam, Rupa Poudel,
Parinita Gautam, Himani Parajuli and the whole community came on the floor during panche
baja and Nepali folk song. Esha Subedi event coordinator of FCNCC was the MC of the event.

President Bijay Paudel of FCNCC welcomed everyone and spoke about the significant of the
celebration and initiative of the chamber in recognition of the Nepalese heritage by parliament.
MP Kyle Seeback was glad to welcome the community and special guest of the event Leader of
his Majesty loyal opposition Pierre Poilievre.

Hon. Pierre, His Excellency ambassador Bhrigu Dhungana, Honorary Consulate General of Nepal to Toronto, Honourable Ahmad Hussain
Minister of housing, diversity and inclusion and MP Dan Muys addressed the community in
this happy occasion.

Other MP who were also present in the event are: Honourable Tim Uppal
Deputy leader of the official opposition, MP Jasraj Hallan, MP Philip Lawrence, MP Soinia Sidhu
and MP Chandra Arya. On behalf of the Nepalese community Organization NRNA ICC Secretary
Chiranjibi Ghimire, NRNA President Dipak Gautam and General Secretary Deepak Shrestha
NCHCTO spoke at the event.

Vice President of FCNCC Lilen Gurung Concluded the program with
note of thanks to everyone. All Nepalese community organization and sponsor were presented
with Certificate of Appreciation on behalf of MP Kyle seeback.