South Asian News Network

Kathmandu, May 29: The 18th Republic Day was observed across the country by organizing various formal events. President Ramchandra Paudel attended a special ceremony held at the Army Pavilion Tundikhel today. The special programme was organized by the Republic Day Main Celebration Committee. On the occasion, a contingent of Nepali Army (NA) presented a guard of honour to the President who serves as the patron of the Constitution and the Supreme Commander of the NA. Tributes were paid to those known and unknown martyrs who attained martyrdom while fighting for bringing a glorious transformation in the country at different times, recalling the contributions of our seniors to the various democratic movements. On the occasion, the Main Celebration Committee Chair and Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli addressed the function, stating that the ‘sovereign citizens’ are the owners of the republic. Vice President Ram Sahaya Prasad Yadav, Chief Justice Prakash Man Singh Raut, Speaker Devraj Ghimire, National Assembly Chairperson Narayan Prasad Dahal, Deputy Prime Minister Prakash Man Singh joined the celebrations. Prior to this, a Nepali Army (NA) helicopter displayed a banner reading “Republic Day – 2082 BS” and showered flower petals from the air. Cultural dance and musical performances were presented by local levels from Kathmandu Metropolitan City, Lalitpur Metropolitan City, and Kirtipur Municipality. These included traditional dances such as the Lakhe and Khaichadi, accompanied by traditional music played on instruments like the Dhime and Dhaumati. A march-past was presented by the Nepali Army, Nepal Police, and the Armed Police Force Nepal. Colorful balloons and pigeons were released, symbolizing joy over the institutionalization of the republic. The celebrations also featured a joint musical performance by the bands of the security forces. Today marks the historic announcement of the federal democratic republic in Nepal, made by the first meeting of the popularly elected Constituent Assembly on Jestha 15, 2065 BS (May 28, 2008), which ended the 240-year-old monarchy. Since then, Jestha 15 is observed annually as Republic Day across the country. The celebrations are not limited to the central level. Various political parties, organizations, and provincial and local governments also mark the occasion. Nepal’s diplomatic missions abroad observe the day as well. Ministers, former Prime Ministers, chiefs of constitutional bodies, senior government officials, heads of security agencies, and representatives from diplomatic missions in Nepal, along with other distinguished personalities, gathered at Tundikhel to attend the celebrations. The event was broadcast live by Nepal Television and Radio Nepal (Public Service Broadcasting).