Kathmandu, Oct. 21 -- Newa households in the Kathmandu Valley begin their new year differently. They worship themselves.

The second day of Tihar, known as Mha Puja, translates to 'worship of the body' in Nepal Bhasa. It is observed on Kartik Shukla Pratipada, the day after Laxmi Puja. In the Newa calendar, Laxmi Puja marks the last day of the year. Mha Puja marks the first day of Nepal Sambat, the community's lunar calendar.

Tihar, or Swanti in Nepal Bhasa, is celebrated across three days by the Newa community. Laxmi Puja comes first. Mha Puja follows the next day. Kija Puja, also known as Bhai Tika, completes the sequence. If the first day honours the goddess of wealth and the third day celebrates siblings, the middle day turns inward....