Kathmandu April 15:The Ambassador of the Republic of Myanmar hosted a reception at his residence on Friday, on the occasion of Thingyang” or the country’s New Year.

The people of Myanmar mark the occasion by spraying scented water on friends and relatives. The people in that country also go to different neighbourhoods and indulge in water throwing contests. Nepalese who have come from Myanmar and also citizens of Myanmar in Nepal, participated in the celebration of “Thingyan” by dousing water on each other on Friday. Diplomats from different countries were also present on the occasion.

Meanwhile, those more religious minded also went to Buddhist stupas and distributed food and alms to the monks at those places. This is a tradition practiced in Myanmar.

An official at the Embassy of Myanmar here in Kathmandu explained that “Thingyang” is almost similar like “Holi” observed by the Hindus. “We are also marking the arrival of Spring and also the new year”, he said.