Historical Background
Losar (Tibetan: ལོ་སར་, Wylie: lo-sar; "new year"), a vibrant and spiritually significant festival in Tibetan Buddhism, finds its origins intertwined with ancient customs and evolving cultural practices. The festival, meaning "new year" in Tibetan, transcends mere calendar celebrations, encompassing profound religious, cultural, and historical dimensions. The roots of Losar stretch back to a time predating the arrival of Buddhism in Tibet. Within the Bon religion, an indigenous belief system of Tibet, there existed a winter ritual involving the burning of incense to welcome the new year. Over time, this primitive custom evolved, integrating with other seasonal observances and cultural festivities.
A pivotal moment in the development of Losar occurred during the reign of King Pude Gungyal, the ninth monarch of Tibet (317-398 CE). It was during his rule that the incense-burning custom merged with a harvest festival, laying a foundational framework for what would later mature into the elaborate celebration known as Losar. This amalgamation of traditions signified not only a temporal transition but also a symbolic renewal and rejuvenation of communal bonds and spiritual commitments. Losar's evolution continued through the centuries, intertwined with the dynamic tapestry of Tibetan society. Its significance expanded beyond agricultural rhythms to encompass broader themes of spiritual renewal, cultural identity, and communal solidarity. The festival became a time for family reunions, expressions of gratitude, and communal festivities, fostering a sense of shared heritage and belonging.
A distinctive feature of Losar is the revered tradition of consulting the Nechung Oracle. For generations, the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government have sought the oracle's guidance during the festival, emphasizing the profound spiritual and cultural significance of this practice. The oracle's pronouncements not only guide temporal affairs but also symbolize a deep-seated belief in the interconnection between the secular and the divine, the earthly and the ethereal. Losar's celebration extends beyond formal rituals to encompass a rich tapestry of cultural practices and elemental celebrations. From offerings to the Nāga, the water spirits, to rituals honoring the sacred elements of earth, water, fire, air, and space, Losar encapsulates a holistic worldview deeply rooted in Tibetan cultural and religious ethos.
The historical background of Losar is deeply intertwined with the tumultuous events that have shaped Tibetan culture and Buddhism over the centuries. In the face of Chinese control from 1959 onward, Tibet experienced profound material and spiritual losses, culminating in the Cultural Revolution (1966-1976). This period saw the devastation of religious artifacts, including statues, texts, and artworks, as well as the suppression of religious practices. However, amidst this chaos, Tibetans undertook a remarkable effort to preserve their cultural and religious heritage. Just as in ancient times when religious artifacts were buried to protect them from persecution, Tibetans concealed significant aspects of their religious tradition in the earth itself, including Buddha statues, ritual items, and scriptures. With the end of the Cultural Revolution in 1976, these hidden treasures began to resurface, signaling a resurgence of Tibetan culture and Buddhism. This period also witnessed a revival of the Ter tradition, wherein sacred scriptures and material items from Tibet's imperial past were rediscovered. The contemporary treasure movement in Eastern Tibet reflects this resurgence, serving as a testament to the resilience and enduring spiritual commitment of the Tibetan people.
While Losar retains its traditional essence, it has also adapted to the realities of diaspora and cultural exchange. Tibetan Buddhist communities worldwide, including those in Dharamsala, India, keep the flame of Losar burning, fostering a sense of continuity and resilience amidst change. Moreover, the festival's adaptation in neighboring regions, such as Nepal, where it is known as Lhosar, underscores its regional significance and adaptability. Here, amidst Nepal's rich cultural tapestry of Hinduism, Buddhism, and indigenous practices, Lhosar finds resonance, reflecting the enduring spirit of cultural exchange and shared heritage.
Domthok Monastery, south east of Gyêgu, Northern Kham, © Ljbonner via Wikipedia
Themes and Symbols in Losar
Losar, celebrated for 15 days with the main events occurring during the first three, is rich with themes and symbols that reflect its deep cultural and religious significance. Each day of Losar holds special meaning, beginning with the first day when families prepare a beverage called changkol made from chhaang, a Tibetan-Nepali equivalent of beer. The second day is known as King's Losar (gyalpo losar), emphasizing the festival's connection to Tibetan royalty and governance. These celebrations are traditionally preceded by a five-day practice of Vajrakilaya, a ritual aimed at removing obstacles and purifying negative influences. Losar's unique customs are intertwined with historical and cultural practices specific to Tibet, despite its chronological proximity to the Chinese and Mongolian New Years due to shared calendrical influences. This distinctiveness is evident in the various rituals and activities that mark the festival.
Preparations and Decorations: In the days leading up to Losar, Tibetan families engage in thorough cleaning of their homes, symbolizing the removal of the old year's negativity. Homes are adorned with fragrant flowers and walls are decorated with auspicious signs painted in flour, such as the sun, moon, and the reversed swastika. Special foods like kapse (fried twists) are prepared, and cedar, rhododendron, and juniper branches are gathered for incense burning.
Symbolic Items: Due to the phonetic similarity in Tibetan between the words for "sheep's head" and "beginning of the year," it is customary to create a sheep's head decoration from colored butter, symbolizing a prosperous new year. Another symbolic item is the Phyemar (Five-Grain Bucket), a bucket filled with zanba (roasted qingke barley flour) and barley seeds, decorated with barley ears and colored butter. It symbolizes a good harvest and is an essential part of Losar decorations.
Rituals and Offerings: Losar involves a variety of rituals and offerings. In Bhutan, these customs include offering sugarcane and green bananas, which are considered auspicious. Bhutanese celebrations also feature activities such as picnicking, dancing, singing, dart-playing, archery, and the giving of offerings.
Cultural Significance: Historically, Losar began with a ritual ceremony at Namgyal Monastery, led by the Dalai Lama and high-ranking lamas, to honor the Dharmapala Palden Lhamo. This practice underscored the festival's religious significance. However, following the Chinese invasion of Tibet in 1950, the ability to observe these traditions publicly in Tibet has been severely restricted. Despite these challenges, Losar remains a vibrant and essential part of Tibetan cultural identity, celebrated in places like Dharamsala, India, where the Dalai Lama continues to bless the Tibetan Buddhist community during the festival.
Education Empowerment: Losar, primarily celebrated within Tibetan Buddhist communities, varies in different regions, each with unique cultural traditions. In India, especially in the north where Tibetan Buddhist nunneries thrive, Losar holds special importance. The recent arrival of textbooks for nuns in India enhances Losar celebrations, showcasing ongoing efforts to educate and empower these communities. Generous donations have provided crucial learning materials, enriching the educational experiences of nuns in nunneries like Dolma Ling, Geden Choeling, Shugsep, and Tilokpur. This convergence of cultural festivities with educational initiatives highlights the dynamic interplay between tradition, education, and community empowerment during Losar celebrations.
Losar in Different Regions: While Losar customs in Bhutan share similarities with those in Tibet, they also have distinct features. The modern celebration of Losar in Bhutan began in 1637 with Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, who commemorated the completion of the Punakha Dzong with a grand inaugural ceremony. This event set the precedent for the wide variety of foods and traditional activities that characterize Bhutanese Losar today.
Calendar and Dates: Losar is celebrated according to the Tibetan lunisolar calendar, starting on the first lunar month. The festival aligns with the cycle of the Tibetan calendar known as the Rabjung, a 60-year cycle that began in 1027 CE and is currently in its 17th cycle. Each year is associated with specific elements and animals, such as the Male Wood Dragon in 2024, reflecting the integration of cosmological and astrological beliefs into the festival's celebration.
Exploring Losar Through Contemporary Art
The Losar festival, celebrated as Tibetan New Year on the 21st of February, holds deep historical significance intertwined with cultural and artistic expressions. This auspicious occasion marks the beginning of a new year in the Tibetan calendar and is celebrated with great fervor and joy. Losar embodies the resilience and spirit of the Tibetan people, reflecting their cultural heritage and spiritual beliefs. Amidst the festivities, Losar provides a platform for contemporary Tibetan artists to showcase their unique and inventive artworks, blending traditional symbolism with modern interpretations. Gyurmey's vibrant and surrealistic imagery, infused with Tibetan iconography and cultural references, captures the essence of Losar, symbolizing renewal, creativity, and the richness of Tibetan exile culture. As art challenges conventional notions and embraces intercultural influences, it mirrors the dynamic spirit of the tradition, fostering cultural exchange and appreciation across borders. These visual representations not only showcase the vibrancy of culture but also serve as meditations on the enduring traditions and symbolism of Losar.
Sacha, Moines au Tibet, 2017. Oil on canvas, 80cm x 60cm.
One such example is Moines au Tibet (2017) by French artist Sacha, an oil painting that encapsulates the serene and contemplative life of Tibetan monks. This piece beautifully captures the spiritual ambiance synonymous with Losar, as monks engage in preparatory practices and ceremonies, embodying the essence of renewal and devotion central to the festival.
Arnol D Medici, Naga System Guide, 2023. Acrylic on canvas, 80cm x 60cm.
In contrast, Naga System Guide (2023) by Russian artist Arnol D Medici presents a striking interpretation of Losar's spiritual themes through mythological symbolism, in a desert mountainous area at twilight. The painting portrays Ush-soo wearing attributes of a combat reconnaissance officer, armed with a combat discharger and a remote radio communication device, amidst a rocky valley illuminated by the moon and a dying sunset. This portrayal of Ush-soo, equipped with tools, weapons, and devices for energy modulation, telepathic communication, and vision enhancement, reflects a rich tapestry of mythological and symbolic elements. The connection between Naga System Guide and Losar lies in the shared themes of spiritual guidance, elemental forces, and ritualistic practices. Losar, deeply embedded in Tibetan culture, involves rituals of gratitude and offerings to the Nāga, the water spirits who are believed to activate and protect natural elements. This reverence for Nāga spirits during Losar, as described by Tenzin Wangyal, aligns with Ush-soo’s role as a protector and guide with psionic abilities and knowledge of healing, wealth, and wisdom. The painting's depiction of Ush-soo in a twilight setting, a time often associated with transitions and new beginnings, mirrors the Losar festival's significance in marking the start of a new year and the renewal of natural and spiritual energies.
Nepali Art & Culture
Nepal's traditional painting and visual arts are deeply rooted in the country's rich cultural and religious heritage. These art forms have evolved over centuries, reflecting the diverse influences of Hinduism, Buddhism, and local animistic beliefs. Thangka paintings are a traditional art form that originated in the Tibetan and Himalayan regions, including Nepal. Their history dates back to the 7th century when Buddhism was spreading throughout the region. Thangka paintings have both religious and cultural significance, serving as aids for meditation, and religious teachings, and as a means to honor and preserve Buddhist iconography.
Tsultrim Lama, Biała Tara, 2021. Acrylic / Pigments on Canvas, 66.5cm x 50.5cm
Tsultrim Lama's Biała Tara (White Tara), created in 2021, is a stunning piece of artwork that draws inspiration from the rich tradition of Thangka art. This original painting, crafted with acrylic and pigments on canvas, captures the essence of Tibetan-style Thangkas with masterful precision, incorporating elements of 24-karat gold. Depicting the image of White Tara, revered as the Mother of All Buddhas, the painting exemplifies the spiritual depth and artistic finesse typical of Thangka art. Handcrafted in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal, this artwork by Tsultrim Lama, the artist and owner of "Red Tara Thangkas Productions and Training Center," embodies the centuries-old tradition of Thangka painting, making it an ideal decorative piece for offices, bedrooms, meditation spaces, and yoga studios alike.
Thangkas are meticulously created using a combination of painting, weaving, and embroidery. Artists use natural pigments derived from minerals, plants, and sometimes, precious stones. The painting is done on a cotton or silk canvas, which is then mounted on a decorative silk brocade frame. The themes depicted in Thangka paintings primarily revolve around Buddhist deities, scenes from the life of the Buddha, mandalas, and other religious symbols. The compositions are intricate and follow strict iconographic guidelines to ensure the accurate representation of spiritual concepts. Thangka paintings play an essential role in Buddhist religious practice, serving various purposes such as spiritual aid, teaching tools, protective talismans, and ritual objects. They enable practitioners to visualize the deity or sacred concept represented in the painting, thereby focusing their mind and progressing on their spiritual path. Thangkas are also employed by Buddhist teachers to illustrate the key principles, stories, and iconography of Buddhism, making complex ideas more accessible and engaging. Additionally, Thangkas are believed to hold spiritual power and protect the space where they are displayed, often hung in monasteries, temples, and homes to attract blessings and ward off negative energies. They also play a vital role in religious ceremonies and rituals, including consecration, initiation, and other special events, often carried in processions or displayed during important religious gatherings.
Myth, Madhubani Folk Art - Celebration, 2021. Acrylic / Ink / Marker / Pencil on Canvas, 83cm x 118cm
Madhubani Folk Art - Celebration, created in 2021 by Myth, an artist from India, is a captivating representation of Madhubani art, a traditional folk art style originating from the Mithila region of the Indian subcontinent. This vibrant painting captures the essence of Madhubani art with its intricate designs and patterns, portraying scenes of joy, celebrations, and the vibrant tapestry of human life. Executed with professional-quality acrylic colors, inks, markers, and pencils on canvas, the artwork showcases the hallmark features of Madhubani art, including its use of bold colors and stylized figures. The gallery-wrapped canvas, coated with UV protection gloss varnish, ensures the longevity of this exquisite piece, which stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Madhubani art and its enduring appeal.
Mithila art, also known as Madhubani art, is a traditional folk art form that originated in the Mithila region, encompassing parts of southern Nepal and northern India. This unique art form has been practiced for centuries, primarily by women, who passed down their skills and knowledge from generation to generation. Mithila art holds cultural and social significance, reflecting the region's beliefs, traditions, and daily life. Mithila artists use a variety of natural materials to create their paintings, such as handmade paper, cloth, or walls of their homes. They use natural dyes and pigments derived from plants, flowers, and even soot to achieve a wide range of vivid colors. Artists often employ bamboo twigs or their fingers to paint, rather than using brushes. The themes depicted in Mithila art are diverse, encompassing religious and mythological stories, nature motifs, and scenes from daily life. The art form is characterized by its intricate patterns, geometric shapes, and stylized figures, which are often surrounded by elaborate borders. Mithila art plays a significant role in empowering women and preserving culture by providing them with a platform for self-expression, creativity, and skill development. The recognition and income generated by their art contribute to their economic independence and social standing. Additionally, Mithila art serves as a visual record of the region's cultural heritage, depicting customs, beliefs, and stories that have been passed down for generations. By continuing to practice this art form, artists ensure the survival of their unique cultural identity and foster a sense of community and belonging among practitioners. Moreover, the growing popularity of Mithila art on the global stage has led to increased cultural exchange and understanding, promoting appreciation for the unique artistic traditions of the Mithila region.
Sculpture and metalwork have long been revered as some of Nepal's most distinctive and valuable art forms, steeped in rich history and cultural significance. Sculpture in Nepal, often associated with religious themes, depicts deities, religious figures, and mythical creatures, reflecting the nation's spiritual beliefs and artistic excellence. Metalwork, on the other hand, encompasses a wide array of utilitarian and ornamental objects, showcasing the skill and craftsmanship of Nepali artisans. The tradition of stone sculpture, influenced by Indian Gupta art, dates back to the early Lichhavi period, serving as a testament to Nepal's rich artistic heritage and spiritual traditions. Metal sculpture, flourishing during the Licchavi and Malla periods, continues to hold significant religious and cultural importance, reflecting Nepal's enduring spiritual beliefs and artistic prowess. Traditional metalwork, deeply rooted in religious and cultural motifs, highlights the skill and creativity of Nepali craftsmen, contributing to the nation's artistic legacy and spiritual heritage.
Losar transcends mere tradition; it embodies a dynamic cultural tapestry deeply ingrained in Tibetan heritage and spirituality. Rooted in ancient Bon rituals, Losar evolved into a festival intricately linked with Tibetan Buddhism, featuring rituals, oracle consultations, and elemental reverence. Contemporary art reflects Losar's enduring influence, inspiring artists to delve into themes of spiritual renewal and cultural identity. With its rich symbolism and regional variations, Losar stands as a vibrant celebration of Tibetan culture, fostering resilience amidst modern challenges while highlighting the interconnectedness of humanity and nature.
Selena Mattei