Dharamsala, Feb 19 (IANS): The Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) Thursday extended greetings on the occasion of Losar - the Tibetan New Year.

"Our Sikyong (political leader) Lobsang Sangay has extended greetings to people both within and outside Tibet to observe traditional and spiritual rituals," a CTA spokesperson told IANS.

According to the Tibetan lunar calendar, Losar is the first day of the New Year. Traditionally, it is celebrated in a big way.

The 17th Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorje, who is the third most important Tibetan religious head, also wished all teachers, students and friends around the world a very happy Losar for the New Year ahead.

The Buddhist monk, who resides in a monastery on the outskirts of this town, greeted his followers with message printed on his one of his paintings.

"May the Year of the Wood Sheep bring renewal to this planet, and harmony amongst all beings who depend upon it," said the monk, who not only paints but also pens down poems and writes books.

The three-day Losar festival marks sacred and secular practices like prayers, ceremonies, rituals and folk dancing and merrymaking.

The CTA held special prayers in the morning at the hilltop Tsuglagkhang temple close to the official palace of the Dalai Lama.

The Dalai Lama and his followers fled Tibet after a failed uprising against China's communist rule in 1959.

The Tibetan exile administration is based in this northern Indian hill town.