Butwal, Aug 23

Chief Minister of State-5, Shankar Pokhrel, has said the festivals observed in different cultural groups have helped foster unity, fraternity and harmony among all.

Giving the best wishes message on the occasion of Atwari festival of the Tharu community today, CM Pokhrel said the special cultural festival of different communities have become common to all Nepalis enjoying diversity in language and religion. Such specificity of Nepali society is exemplary, he said, adding that the constitution of federal republic of Nepal has paved way for the development of Tharu community.

Tharus are further respected by the constitutional provision on formation of a Tharu commission. CM Pokhrel further said at a time when the COVID-19 has been deepening in the country, everyone needs to abide by the health safety rule to stay away from the virus spread.

The State government has given public holiday to the Tharu people in Dang, Banke and Bardiya districts on the occasion of the Atwari festival today.