Oct. 2004, Year 3 Issue 6 - PDF Format

Transcription

Oct. 2004, Year 3 Issue 6 - PDF Format
L ALI G U R A N S
Newsletter of Nepal Seattle Society
Rhododendron — National Flower of Nepal
State Flower of Washington, USA
Year 3, Issue 6 (Oct 2004)
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Letter from H.E.Ambassador
NSS News...
2
3,4,5
Greetings from the fair land
6
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10
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11
Addressing the needs for...
12
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13
Pilgrimage to Kailash...
14
Journey to Nepal...
16
Linking Nepal and Oregon...
18
NSS Upcoming Events...
22
NSS Life Members...
22
Life is butterfly...
23
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23
News from Alpine...
24
INLS Seattle Chapter...
25
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28
8
(2003 - 2005 AD)
Message from NSS President
Executive Committee:
Dear all,
President- Ravi Rana
Vice-President- Sita Gurung
Gen.Secretary– Dhan B. Pun
On this auspicious day, please accept my sincere best wishes for a
Happy, Prosperous Vijaya Dashami 2061 to all.
Treasurer- Sachin Pradhan
Executive Members:
Sampurna Prajapati
Vijaya Dashami Ko Hardik Mangalmaya Subhakamana!!
Madhu Dahal
Shanti Thapa
Anna Hauksdottir
Madan Shrestha
Board Of Directors:
Mr. Atul Regmi
Mr. Bijit Giri
Mr. Karma Sherpa
Mrs. Lily Laemmle
Mr. Nil Bahadur Tilija
Mr. Shree Ram Dahal
Mr. Tirtha Khanal
Email: info@nepalseattle.org
While we gather to celebrate together - away from our families in
Nepal - we pray for their well being, prosperity and peace. I also
want to thank all those who were directly or indirectly involved in making our Dashain program and "Lali Gurans newsletter" a grand success. Lastly, may Goddess Durga Bhawani
grace her blessings to each one of us for continued love and support in our community.
Thank you.
Ravi SJB Rana
Website: http://www.nepalseattle.org
Page 2
Year 3, Issue 6
Letter From His Excellency Kedar Bhakta Shrestha
Royal Nepalese Ambassador to USA
Email: info@nepalseattle.org
Website: http://www.nepalseattle.org
Year 3, Issue 6
Page 3
NSS NEWS
September 5, 2004: 3rd Northwest Nepali Jamghat
The Nepali Association of Oregon (NAO) hosted a Northwest Nepali Jamghat (gathering)
at Blue Lake Regional Park, Portland, Oregon on September 5, 2004,. Members were
given the opportunity to take a chartered bus to the event. On the bus we sang and
danced to our favorite Nepali songs to pass the time and make the bus ride an enjoyable
trip. Once we arrived in Portland, we enjoyed the festive mood with NAO members/friends. After the games, activities and delicious food, NAO provided a Token of
Love to NSS. Next year, the Nepali Jamghat will be in Vancouver, B.C..
July 17, 2004:
Potluck Picnic - NSS DAY
On July 17, 2004, NSS hosted a Potluck
Picnic Day (NSS DAY) at the Golden Garden Park, in Seattle, WA. We had a great
turnout of people as well as a variety of
delicious foods prepared by our NSS
members. The Nepali Soccer Team was
honored with 6 soccer balls, 1 air pump
and 17 scrimmage vests for their job well
done at the World Cup Seattle 2004 Soccer Tournament. Golden garden park provided a beautiful background to our exciting day which included fun-filled activities
like Tug-of-war, Children’s Blind Jack and
Volleyball. We thank all of those who attended this picnic and made this event a
grand success.
August 22, 2004: FUND RAISING MOMO PARTY
On August 22, 2004, NSS organized its first formal Fund Raiser event at the Himalayan
Sherpa Restaurant. We made around 900 pieces of MOMOs and sold $749 dollars
worth. During the party we projected “In The Shadow of Himalayas: How People Live in
Nepal” as entertainment for our members and friends.
We thank all of the NSS officials, volunteers, members and friends from the bottom of our
hearts who gave their valuable time to make and sell all those momos to make our Fund
Raiser a big success. We thank Ms. Tamara Plush for providing her movie for the event.
Our very special thanks goes to Mr. Mani Chhetri of Himalayan Sherpa Restaurant and
his staff for all their help and for providing the premises to NSS at no cost. We hope to
get this kind of continued help and cooperation in the days to come for the betterment of
NSS.
We hope to host more Fund Raising Events in the future as we are planning to establish
a Revolving Fund to serve our members in need as well as children and elderly people
in Nepal. We also hope that we will be able to support victims of natural disasters if we
are successful in establishing this kind of Fund.
Email: info@nepalseattle.org
Website: http://www.nepalseattle.org
Page 4
Year 3, Issue 6
June 4 to 6, 2004:
World Cup Seattle 2004 Soccer Tournament
The qualifying game for this year’s World Cup Seattle 2004
Soccer Tournament was held on June 4th, 5th and 6th at Starfire
Sports Soccer Complex in Tukwila, Washington. The Sister Communities of Seattle founded World Cup Seattle in August 2003 as an avenue for cultural expression, strengthening diverse leadership, and
creating connection between the diverse communities of the Puget
Sound region. This year 31 teams including Nepal represented their
country.
The Nepalese Soccer Team of Seattle proudly participated
in this World Cup Seattle 2004 Qualifying Game. The inauguration
ceremony was on 4th June at 7pm. There were many cultural activities from the participating countries. Our team captain Mr. Bishal
Gurung spoke at the inauguration about the Nepali Team, Nepal and
the future goals of our team.
On the first day, 4th June, Nepal played against China and
won 1-0 with Mr. Dawa Tuladhar's winning goal. It was indeed a very
good start for us and felt great to come home with a win on the very
first day. This was an exciting game and a lot of fun to watch. The
second day, 5th June, Nepal played against Laos and lost 4-1 (Mr.
Tenzing Thinley scored for Nepal.) Unfortunately, in this game, one of
our players from Portland, Mr. Kabir Pradhan was injured with multiple fractures in his right arm. We hope he is doing better now. The
last day 6th June, Nepal played against Japan and Japan won 5-0.
Japan was a tough competitor but our players displayed amazing
team work and played tirelessly till the end.
Even though the Nepali Team did not make it into the second rounds, the team showed great pride, dedication, and class in
each of the games. It was a tough competition but everyone played
impressively giving their best and above all, everyone had fun participating in this competitive tournament. We are proud of our Nepali
Soccer Team who represented our country Nepal in the international
community throughout this competition. Many people are not familiar
with Nepal and Nepalese, however this competition provided an opportunity for many people to recognize us.
Our Nepali Soccer Team Cast: Bishow Adhikari, Chandika Bhandari,
Satish Chand (Coach), J. Dorjee, Som Ghimire, Bishal Gurung (Team
Captain), Krishna Gurung, Chet Khadka, Bhushan Khanal, Prasoon
Khanal, Dave Laemmle (Goal Keeper), Kabir Pradhan, Pan Tamang,
Diwakar Thapa, Tenzing Thinley, Dawa Tuladhar, T. Wangyal (Goal
Keeper).
Mr. Bishal Gurung is the team captain for the Nepali Soccer
Team, Mr. Satish Chand and Mr. Sabin Pradhan helped out as the
coaches and our invaluable goal keepers were Mr. Dave Laemmle
and Mr. T. Wangyal.
In all the three games, we saw a lot of support from our
Nepali community and thank everyone who came to watch the
games and cheered for our team and boosted their confidence. Special thanks to Mr. Dawa Tuladhar and Mr. Kabir Pradhan who came
from Portland to represent our country in this tournament. Let us
continue to support our budding soccer team and hope to see them
competing in the finals at the Seahawk Stadium some day!
CONGRATULATIONS AND THREE CHEERS
TO OUR NEPALI SOCCER TEAM!!
Email: info@nepalseattle.org
Website: http://www.nepalseattle.org
Page 5
Year 3, Issue 6
April 17, 2004: Nepali New Year 2061 Celebration
The Nepali New Year 2061 celebration was held on 17th April 2004 at Happy Medium
School in Seattle, Washington. About 250 members and guests attended the celebration. The celebration started with a welcome speech by NSS President Mr. Ravi SJB Rana and New Year Welcome poem by Mrs. Jyotsana Rana. She read her poem titled Sabailai hatar chha...., which touched
everyone's heart by focusing on daily life situation in America.
Ms. Lily Laemmle and Mr. Madhu Dahal took on the stage for us all with their graceful
presence as Masters of Ceremony. The audience enjoyed laugh after laugh by the muktaks and
sayaries (Nepali jokes) Madhu Dahal presented.
We all enjoyed the exciting cultural program performed by our talented local artists that
evening. The cultural program began with a patriotic song "Yo man ta Nepali ho..." by Atul Regmi,
Sunil Joshi, Bhushan Khanal, Sushil Bogati and Madhu Dahal. Ms. Parvati T. Brown performed a
beautiful solo dance on the modern song “Choli ramro palpali dhakako...” Mr. Tsering Lama sang a
folk song “Dharanko purano bajaraima...” For the first time, he showcased his ability as a singer
that evening. Mr. Lama is also a very good dancer and he has performed in many NSS programs
before. Mr. Tak Gurung and Mr. Prem Gurung accompanied him by playing the Madal (Nepali
drums).
A romantic duet dance was presented by Mr. Madan Shrestha and Mrs. Bandana
Shrestha on the song “Kafal gedi kutukkaai, nahou bhutukai…” It was an incredible performance.
This was Bandana’s first performance in NSS program. Madan has performed dances before for
various NSS programs. Mr. Madan Shrestha and Bandana Shrestha are going to represent Nepal
Seattle Society with the same dance sequence on the 3rd International Taekwondo Championship
in Portland on June 19th 2004.
A folk song in pop tune "Nakkalai kali maya..." and a love song "Jahan jaau priya timi..."
were sung by Atul Regmi, Sunil Joshi, Bhushan Khanal, Sunil Bogati and Krishna Gurung. These
talented artists are the icons of our successful musical shows.
Our talented dancers Sita Gurung, Parvati T. Brown, Tsering Lama and Kiran Shrestha
performed an incredible group dance to a folk song "Launa mero jovana gayo dhalkera..." These
artists including Shanti Thapa, Sampurna Prajapati, Tak Gurung, Prem Gurung, Krishna Gurung,
Anupma Gurung, Madhu Dahal and Pushpa Shrestha sang a dohoree geet "Simsime paanima..."
The song was compiled by Sita Gurung and Kiran Shrestha with the interesting love story between
Gurungseni and Newar.
Sampurna Prajapati and Anupma Gurung performed an entertaining duet dance on the
song "Kaalo choli makhmali jhalala..." Sampurna is a very good dancer and he has performed in
various NSS programs. For Anupama, this was her first performance on stage and she did a spectacular job for a first time dancer. Other talented dancers Kiran Shrestha and Mingma Sherpa performed a duet dance on the song "Chaudha anchal makuri pachattar jilla..." Mr. Pushpa Shrestha
recited a heart touching Nepali poem. We have seen him perform on stage at various NSS programs in the past as well. A special highlight of our program was when Tom Lapham and Jacob
Kalenderian sang a song “Mayale maya gasideu…” with Anup Kafle.
Our popular DJs Krishna Gurung along with Shree Ram Dahal and Shruti brought the
house down with lively Nepali, Hindi and English beats using a computerized musical system. It is a
great help to use the technology in our programs as it helps us make our programs systematic and
more professional sounding.
Besides the interesting cultural program, another highlight of the evening was the raffle
drawing. The first raffle prize was for 4 elevator ride tickets at the Space Needle which was won by
Mr. Tak Gurung. The second raffle prize was a gift certificate to dinner at Annapurna Café won by
one of our guest. Annapurna Café is a Nepali café/restaurant owned by two of our NSS members.
The GRAND raffle prize was a ROUND TRIP AIR TICKET to Seattle-New Delhi-Seattle from Asiana
Airlines which was won by Mr. Chong Karma Sherpa. Mr. DJ Ahn from Asiana Airlines was with us at
this event. He handed over the ticket to our president. We thank Mr. Ahn for his time and support
to our society and thank Asiana Airlines tremendously. We hope to get their continued support in
the days to come.
All the members of the New Year 2061 celebration organizing committee would like to
thank all the artists and volunteers who helped and dedicated their valuable time and efforts to
make this New year 2061 celebration memorable and successful. All of them deserve great appreciation for a job well done. Our special thanks goes to Mr. Hum Bahadur BK of New Delhi Restaurant for providing delicious appetizers and a hearty Nepali buffet dinner. Please visit our website:
www.nepalseattle.org and click on the Photo Gallery to view some of the photos snapshots taken
at the from the New Year 2061 celebration.
Email: info@nepalseattle.org
Website: http://www.nepalseattle.org
Page 6
Year 3, Issue 6
Namaste! And greetings from the fair land of Nepal!
My name is Dawn Bove. As you read this I will be huffing and puffing up a well worn trail in the beautiful
Himalayas in far western Nepal, one of the most remote spots on the earth and one of the most scenic as
well. You see, I left my heart there on my last trip in October of 2003 and I have to go get it!
This area is not strange to me... in fact it is my MYETEE... my homeland. I was raised here as child from age
10 to age 17, most of my formative years. My parents, Dr. and Mrs. Maynard Seaman came here in 1968 to
minister to the sick and impoverished in the Doti district. They initiated their first week in a little valley next
to Pokara (means Lake) about 8 Kms. from Dadeldhura the district center. Back then it was a 100 mile hike
from the end of the last motor-able road. And hike it we did! It was the only way to go back then! We used
to do the hike over 6 days initially but as we became older and more surefooted as teenagers we were able to
manage the same distance in three days. Now, thank God, there is a decent road all the way from Dhangadi
to Dadeldhura and I shouldn't have to walk much at all! It's a good thing as I'm no longer the hiker I once
was!
Dawn Bove
My father pioneered not only that first hospital 36 years ago, but many years later, a second hospital in Dadeldhura, itself.(He retired after 30
years of service but still volunteers whenever he can.). I will be volunteering as a nurse for 2 months at this facility in Dadeldhura. I will be also
teaching Natural Healing classes to the staff of that hospital and hope to also do some village health training courses if all goes well.
As a result of my latest trip to this location last October, I have had a tremendous burden for the widows and orphans of Nepal in general and
Doti in particular. The devastation the war has left on too many families, pulls at my heart strings and I cannot sit idly by and act as if it does
not exist. So I have been collecting funds and started 2 orphanages as of February 2004, one in Kathmandu and the other in Dadeldhura. In both
cases, couples approached me and expressed a huge desire to take in orphans if they just had the funding. One couple had already taken in 2
orphans into their own home along with their own 2 children. That home has now exceeded their capacity with 9 children and many more clamoring to come if they just had resources. The new Children’s Home in Dadeldhura has also taken in 9 children and just moved to a larger facility
last month.
My recent move to Port Orchard, WA, 2 months ago, has forced me to get to know many new people here. It has been astounding to me to see
total strangers rally around the cause of reaching out to these precious little ones as we conducted a warm clothing drive. I am taking as much as
I can carry, to help these little ones get through another cold winter. But there are many needs yet. Some of them are better met in Nepal with
funds from here, i.e. things that are too heavy to carry, like shoes and blankets that can be obtained in Kathmandu. This assures a better “fit” as
in shoes and promotes the local economy as well, (something Nepal can really use, as tourism is declining due to the volatile nature of the war.)
But funds are needed for food and shoes and blankets etc.
My heart also goes out to the widows! I have a desire to help these women be independent and develop income generating strategies and implement them for the benefit of the whole family. I hope to institute some of these kinds of programs as well on this trip- as the need is so great in
this area!
So as you can see… I have my work cut out for me! So I will polish my “kichardee” language skills (I seem to confuse my Hindi and Nepali too
readily!) and put on my kurta/sulwar and get myself to the uttermost part of the world and try to make a difference in the life of someone half a
world away!
If you would like to assist me and my brother Dave Seaman in our joint venture to bring aid to Nepal in a tangible way, your monetary gift
would be so appreciated. We guarantee 100% will go directly to ministering to the sick, homeless, fatherless and destitute or to the delivery of
your gift. Won’t you help us meet the needs of these beautiful but needy Nepalese! They and I thank you from the bottom of our heart!
Please visit our website at www.daretocareinc.com to see what we are doing and to get connected with our staff or to sponsor a child or project.
Dare to Care Inc. is a not for profit (with 501(c) (3) relief organization meeting tangible needs for the destitute and needy of Nepal.). Also feel
free to call me at (630) 272-0512 after my return December 10th or Dave at (847) 742-7115. Either of us be happy to answer your questions re:
this important work.
Wishing you the best of health, peace and prosperity!
Dawn
PS. I enjoyed meeting many of you at the Nepali New Years Celebrations in Seattle in April! I trust I can reconnect with you again soon at a
near future NSS event!
Email: info@nepalseattle.org
Website: http://www.nepalseattle.org
Page 7
Year 3, Issue 6
Atul Regmi
Bijit Giri
C. K. Sherpa
Lily Laemmle
Nil Bahadur Tilija
Shree Ram Dahal
Tirtha Khanal
(Board of Director)
(Board of Director)
(Board of Director)
(Board of Director)
(Board of Director)
(Board of Director)
(Board of Director)
Ravi SJB Rana
(President)
Shanti Thapa
(Executive Member)
Email: info@nepalseattle.org
Sita Gurung
(Vice-President)
Madan Shrestha
(Executive Member)
Dhan B. Pun
(General Secretary)
Madhu Dahal
(Executive Member)
Sachin Pradhan
(Treasurer)
Anna Hauksdottir
(Executive Member)
Sampurna Prajapati
(Executive Member)
Website: http://www.nepalseattle.org
Page 8
Year 3, Issue 6
MERO NEPAL -d]/f]
By Nabita Khanal
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Beautified with the greatest heights of the Himalaya, Nepal is a land of sublime
scenery, time-worn temples, and some of the best walking trails on earth. It is rich in scenic majesty
and cultural treasures.
Nepal is one of the richest countries in the world in terms of bio-diversity due to its unique geographical position and altitude variation. The country is located between India in the south and China
in the north. At the latitudes 26 and 30 degrees north and longitudes 80 and 88 degrees east. The
elevation of the country ranges from 70 meters above sea level to the highest point on earth, Mt. Everest at 8,848 meters, all within a distance of 850 kilometers west to east nd 145-241 kilometers north to south. Thus, resulting in
climatic conditions from Sub-tropical to Arctic.
Not only does it have the world's tallest mountains, including Everest and Annapurna, it also has the youngest - and they're still
growing. Apart from its four mountain ranges - Chure Hills, Mahabharat Range, Himalaya and the Tibetan Marginals - Nepal also has
vast plains in the south, fertile valleys in the midlands and high-altitude deserts in the north.
Eight out of 10 Nepalese are engaged in farming and it accounts for more than 40 percent of the GDP. Rolling fields and neat
terraces can be seen all over the Terai flatlands and the hills of Nepal. Even in the highly urbanized Kathmandu Valley, large tracts
of land outside the city areas are devoted to farming. Rice is the staple diet in Nepal and around three million tons are produced
annually. Other major crops are maize, wheat, millet and barley. Besides food grains, cash crops like sugarcane, oil seeds, tobacco,
jute and tea are also cultivated in large quantities.
Whether you get your adrenaline kicks from some of the world's premier white-water rafting, kayaking and mountain biking, or from
the sight of a tiger or rhino through the dawn mist from atop an elephant in Chitwan National Park. The park is especially renowned for Royal Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinos, and gharial crocodile. Kathmandu valley, a fabulous capital of friendly people, carved rose-brick temples, statues, stupas and many other pieces with magnificence history behind it. The city of Pokhara
which is renowned for its setting. Lumbini (Buddha was born in Lumbini, twenty-five hundred years ago.) is a small town where the
ruins of the old city can still be seen. At the same time you can find increasing modernity. Nepal is destined to make a big impression on you. Many visitors, drawn to Nepal by the promise of adventure, friendliness of the Nepali people and their amazingly
rich and diverse culture.
Nepal – occupying only 0.1% of the earth – is home to:
- 2% of all the flowering plants in the world
- 8% of the world's population of birds (more than
848 species)
- 4% of mammals on earth
- 11 of the world's 15 families of butterflies (more
than 500 species)
- 600 indigenous plant families
- 319 species of exotic orchids
Full country name: Kingdom of Nepal
Population: 23 million
Capital city: Kathmandu (pop. 535,000)
King: Gyanendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev
Prime Minister: Sher Bahadur Deuba
Area: 147,181 sq. kilometers
Language: Nepali is the national language.
Currency: Nepali Rupee (approximately US$ 1 equals Rs. 74.65)
Political System: Multi-party democracy with constitutional monarchy
Religion: Nepal enjoys the distinction of being the only Hindu Kingdom in the world (86.2% Hindu). However, there are 7.8% Buddhist, 3.8% Muslim, and 2.2% other.
Contd. on page 21...
Email: info@nepalseattle.org
Website: http://www.nepalseattle.org
Page 9
Year 3, Issue 6
My Doctor said… I have a border line of high blood
pressure, high sugar and high cholesterol; I need to
watch my food, reduce animal products, dairy products, and junk food and take more vegetables, fibers
and regular exercise on top of that..
Oh my God… my life and my family are the most
important things to me in this world, but how can I
do that when I have to work so hard to support my
family and myself. I have no time to cook quality
food at home, so I have to eat whatever I get outside.
Here is a solution…You can have such kind of food
at The Everest Kitchen which was established to
serve healthy food with commitment. You can take
out or dine in. Delivery and catering service is also
available. Just give them buzz or write them at:
The Everest Kitchen USA
(Formerly Known as New Delhi Restaurant)
14561 Bothellway NE
Seattle WA 98155
Phone # 206 440 0321
Website: www.theeverestkitchen.com
(coming soon)
Email: theeverestkitchen@yahoo.com
Lunch Buffet 11am to 2.30pm
Dinner 4.30pm to 9.30pm
•
Saturday is especially for Nepali, friends
of Nepal and Nepali food lover.
You are always welcome.
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Email: info@nepalseattle.org
Website: http://www.nepalseattle.org
Page 10
Year 3, Issue 6
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Mankaji Shrestha
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Professional Engineer
British Columbia
Vancouver, Canada
E-mail: mankajees@hotmail.com
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Email: info@nepalseattle.org
Website: http://www.nepalseattle.org
Page 11
Year 3, Issue 6
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Krishna, Anita &
Mahima Gurung
We would like to extend our
warmest wishes to everyone on
this auspicious festival of Happy
Vijaya Dashami & Deepawali.
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Dave, Lily & Supriya Laemmle
Email: info@nepalseattle.org
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Website: http://www.nepalseattle.org
Page 12
Year 3, Issue 6
Addressing the Need for Education in Nepal
By Deep Roots Nepal
Today in Nepal, where the average annual household income is $250, the $25 it costs a family to send a
child to school for a year is often an impossibility. Only 16% of all eligible Nepali students are able to overcome poverty and political instability, corruption and chronic under-funding to remain enrolled in school
through grade ten.
Yet education is not a luxury; it is a right and a requirement for a prosperous, promising future—whether for
a child or a country.
Deep Roots Nepal (DRN) was created in 2003 to provide a secure source of funding to outstanding Nepalese students who could not otherwise afford to attend school. With the help of carefully selected local NGO
partners, DRN identifies students in rural areas of Nepal who have demonstrated academic excellence, but
who are at risk of leaving the public educational system due to economic hardship. DRN subsidizes the tuition, textbook, and school
supply expenses faced by these students and their families, while monitoring their progress throughout the remainder of their education. Because of the special challenges and inequities they face, DRN is committed to providing half of their scholarships to orphaned
children and two-thirds of their scholarships to young women.
Program Description
Deep Roots Nepal (DRN) identifies secondary school (grades 6 to 10) students from rural areas of Nepal who demonstrate both academic excellence and economic disadvantage. DRN pays or subsidizes the minimal tuition, textbook, and school supply expenses
faced by these students throughout the remainder of their secondary education. To identify potential scholarship recipients, DRN asks
selected local NGOs in Nepal to nominate students who have displayed academic excellence but who are at
risk of leaving the educational system due to economic hardship. The NGO worker or organization that nominates a student is committed to assist with monitoring the student’s progress through the remainder of his education. The renewal of a student’s scholarship each year is contingent upon his attendance and satisfactory
performance in the prior year.
The Morning Star Orphanage Sponsorship Fund
The Morning Star Orphanage, located just outside the city of Kathmandu, is a locally organized and run orphanage with 56 impoverished, abandoned orphans. Though these children are fortunate enough to have
found a caring home, the orphanage is still mainly funded by Bishnu Parajuli, the founder of the orphanage. By
providing for the educational needs of these 56 children, Deep Roots Nepal is helping the Morning Star Orphanage be more sustainable and allowing it to expand to take in more unfortunate children.
Rural Student Scholarship Fund
Though Nepal's physical size is small, it is tremendously diverse both culturally and economically. Leaving the Kathmandu valley,
brick houses give way to mud huts, paved roads dwindle to dirt footpaths, gas stoves yield to traditional fire "chulos". The average
daily salary is about 60 US cents, but in rural areas it is even lower. School fees of 100 rupees (about $1.50) are a luxury much of the
rural population cannot afford. In the spirit of other Deep Roots programs, Deep Roots Nepal seeks poor but talented students in rural
areas and supports them financially through the completion of their schooling. Deep Roots can provide one year's worth of school
fees, textbooks, and school supplies for a student for as little as $25.
You can find out more about Deep Roots Nepal by visiting them on the web at www.deeproots.org/nepal or by emailing them at
nepal@deeproots.org.
Email: info@nepalseattle.org
Website: http://www.nepalseattle.org
Page 13
Year 3, Issue 6
s7}a/L
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Email: info@nepalseattle.org
Rakesh Rimal
&
Kamala Rimal
Website: http://www.nepalseattle.org
Page 14
Year 3, Issue 6
PILGRIMAGE TO KAILASH
By Ravi Rana
"In the first pages of poetry, written in the second millennium BC, the Aryans sang hymns to Gods in the Himalaya. For
centuries man has journeyed through these forbidding and forlorn mountains and valleys in a timeless quest of the
Divine. These great mountains, from the Tien Shan to the Himalaya, lie at the heart of Eurasia, the Mother Continent,
from where man stepped out to inhabit the far corners of the earth.
In this spectacular setting of nature, man located the scene of Creation from the primordial waters, the great Tethyan
Sea, a remainder of which is Lake Manasarovar. In the form of Mt Kailash, 22,028 ft, on the Tibetan plateau, he envisioned the celestial stairway by which the Gods descended from heaven and here he beheld the Supreme Being, Lord
Shiva. He found the universal themes of the Garden of Eden, the Mountain of the Ark and the Churning of the Ocean
reiterated here in geographical fact, echoing the symbolic legends of the origin of life.
Sages and thinkers came away to these remote heights to inhabit secluded hermitages and caves to ponder the ultimate truth. They wrote of their
spiritual experiences in the immortal words of the scriptures and gave rise to a wealth of philosophical thought and belief, proclaiming the omniscience
of a Supreme Power. The recognition of this Divine became the force which moved the hearts and minds of millions of people and made this region a
land of a powerful, living faith. "
•
Rommel and Sadhana Varma, Ascent to the Divine, THE HIMALAYA, KAILASH - MANASAROVAR In Scripture, Art and Thought.
Kailash - the sacred mountain and abode of the Hindu God, Shiva. One of the world's greatest pilgrimage destinations visited only by those locals
dedicated enough and hardy enough to make the long trek across the high Tibetan plateau with its windswept passes and endless barren plains. But
to set eyes on this exceptionally unusual and beautiful mountain and to make the required circumambulations of the equally sacred lake of Manasarovar is to attain the ultimate goal for Buddhists and Hindus alike - a lifelong dream and surety of greater reward in the next reincarnation.
For us there is now the chance to join this pilgrimage and be among the very first people to be in the presence of these sacred places. It is not a comfortable trip; the road distances traveled are great. Yet to stand at the foot of Kailash and to touch the icy waters of the holy lake, Manasarovar, will be
an experience few will ever have.
We provide a 30 day itinerary only as a guide and could change for many reasons. Patience and a real sense of adventure are vital to the success of
this trip. Also the weather is highly unpredictable in Tibet and roads may close due to unseasonal snow falls etc.
Since much of the trip is at altitudes of over 4000 m you may feel breathless and lethargic for a few days. In some cases you may even suffer mild
headaches but there is no need to worry. If these symptoms become worse and you begin to suffer extreme headaches and nausea inform the Group
Leader at once so that she / he can ascertain whether or not you are suffering from altitude sickness.
TIBET
We head off for Tibet. Our bus climbs up over the rim of the Kathmandu Valley and heads north following the Sun Khosi River to the small village of
Tatopani - the Nepalese customs check post. A short drive from here brings you to the Immigration Post at the Friendship Bridge. From here it is about
10 kms uphill to the Chinese Customs and Immigration post at Zhangmu. This town, our first in China, is also known as Khasa in Nepali and Dram in
Tibetan. Landslides often block the road up to Zhangmu and it may be necessary to walk. After customs/immigration formalities we begin one of the
most spectacular road journeys in the world. From Zhangmu the road winds its way through the narrow gorge of the Sun Khosi. We climb 2000m to
Nyalam (4100m), making the dramatic transition from the green forested hillsides of Nepal into the high, dry and wild Tibetan plateau. This is where we
spend our first night in Tibet. From here we commence the marathon road journey west towards Kailash. The views back south to the Himalayan
Range, which rises straight up from this great plateau, are absolutely breathtaking.
The road to Mt Kailash and the holy lake of Manasarovar is as wild as the country it traverses. It is a dirt road, which crosses streams, high snowcovered passes and vast plains. At times it is easier to drive across grasslands than keep to the road. We often pass groups of pilgrims on their oncein-a-lifetime journey to this ultimate religious destination or perhaps we will come across herds of yaks and sheep being herded by Tibetan nomads.
Every day the tedium of the driving will be more than compensated for by the spectacular scenery and the encounters with the Tibetan people who
have seen few foreigners and who lead a lifestyle which is all but lost in the 20th century. We are privileged to be among the very few who will ever
experience it before it disappears forever.
The route followed affords a variety of scenic wilderness - high altitude desert, snowy, high passes, dramatic and vast grassy plains and misty rolling
hills which change colour with every light change. It is truly a remarkable place. As we descend into the Wesak Valley we catch our first glimpse of the
sacred peak itself - Kailash. A unique pyramid shaped mountain, which rises dramatically from the north end of the valley. The journey to the foot of
Mount Kailash is a great achievement and the ultimate for pilgrims both Western and Eastern. However for those wishing to receive an even greater
blessing there is the option to walk the sacred circuit of Mount Kailash. This walk is called "KORA" (which means the Holy walk of Kailash),the 52 km
circuit will take us 3 days. The trek takes us through some beautiful wild landscape and also includes crossing the holy Dolma-la Pass (5500m). The
walk can be quite strenuous and only for those who are well acclimatized. For those who choose to remain in the base camp can undertake small
pilgrimage around the Wesak Valley.
Contd. on page 20...
Email: info@nepalseattle.org
Website: http://www.nepalseattle.org
Page 15
Year 3, Issue 6
— the Taste of Shangri-La !
We are pleased to introduce our delicious food from ‘Top of the World’. We serve cuisine from
Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan and India.
Open Time:
Mon– Fri : 11 AM — 10 PM (includes regular Lunch Buffet)
Sat : 12 PM — 10 PM (includes SUPER Saturday Nepali Lunch Special)
*** INTRODUCING FAMOUS FOOD ‘GYAKOK’ - THE HOT POT ***
*** Pure Nepali Food ***
Location:
4214 University way NE, Seattle WA, 98105 (Parking available at back).
Tel. (206) 633-2100, Fax: (206) 633-6224, Email: info@himalayafood.com
Visit us at: http://www.himalayafood.com
Please remember us for Dine in, Take out or Catering service ! Thank you!
"Happy Vijaya Dashami & Deepali 2061"
Mani R. Chhetri
Email: info@nepalseattle.org
Website: http://www.nepalseattle.org
Page 16
Year 3, Issue 6
Film & Discussion: Journey to Nepal
By Tamara Plush (Smudge Production, LLC)
Thurs., Nov. 11 - Journey back to Nepal through film and discussion at 7 p.m. at the Mountaineers, Thursday, Nov. 11 (300 Third
Ave West in lower Queen Anne).
Local filmmaker Tamara Plush will show her 30-minute film: In the
Shadow of the Himalayas: How People Live in Nepal. In addition,
she will be joined by guides from a local trekking company and
Sushil Bogati from Katmandu to talk about the state of Nepal.
Tamara videotaped the film in 2002 in the Katmandu area, Pokhara, the Dahding District, and the Annapurna Circuit. In addition,
the film show video from trekking in the Everest and people from
the Terai.
The film is targeted at fourth- through sixth-grade students and features the Hamilton International School in Seattle
Washington, learning about Nepal because they have a sister school in the Katmandu Valley. At the beginning of the
film, the Hamilton students pack up a care package complete with cameras to send to the students.
Throughout the film, the Hamilton students introduce different aspects of living in Nepal – geography, culture, religion,
challenges, play – while answering questions about their perceptions of what life is like in Nepal. At the end, they see
the photos that the Nepali students sent back and have a better understanding of the country.
“Nepal is a spectacular country with a unique religious history, beautiful ancient architecture, and one of the most diverse cultures of people in the world, “said Tamara, the video’s producer, director and camera operator. “Mt. Everest
though is the only thing most children know about the country. We hope to change that with this video.”
The funds from the sales of the film are going to support girls’ scholarships through www.roomtoread.org. “In Nepal,
Room to Read gives scholarships to girls from first grade through tenth grade,” John Wood, Room to Read CEO, said.
“Since about half of all girls in Nepal drop out of school by grade six, this long-term approach helps these girls beat the
odds and stay in school long enough to go on to vocational school, or a university.”
If you are not able to attend the Nov. 11 screening, but want to order the film, send $22 for VHS ($20 + shipping) or $27
for the DVD ($25 + shipping) to Tamara Plush, 1320 NE 62nd St, Seattle, WA 98115. This is a $5 discount for Nepal
Seattle Society.
Learn more about the film at www.sidff.org/in_shadow.html and send questions to: Tamarafilm1@yahoo.com.
Email: info@nepalseattle.org
Website: http://www.nepalseattle.org
Year 3, Issue 6
Page 17
Coming Soon...
for all the news about Nepal
If you have any question or comment
please e-mail
Tirtha Khanal
at
nepalimaya@hotmail.com
Email: info@nepalseattle.org
Website: http://www.nepalseattle.org
Page 18
Linking Nepal & Oregon
Daya R. Shakya
President
Nepali Association of Oregon (NAO)
The number of Nepalese-Americans
is not as high as other hyphenated Americans in Oregon. However, the historical fact
indicates that contribution of Nepalese people in building up their own community is very
interesting to know. On the other hand, the
Oregonians’ contribution on development of
Nepal is also highly praiseworthy. This short
article aims to explore some of the facts that
how the Nepalese community was established in the State of Oregon.
Historically, Nepal became successful in establishing the democratic form of
government and became free from 104 years
of family based Rana autocratic regime on
Feb 22nd,1950. After that Nepal was known
to the world in various ways. The very first
step of making the country known to the
world was its membership to the United Nations Organization (UNO) in 1953. In the
same year, Sir Edmund Hillary and his Nepali
assistant Tenzing Norgay Sherpa conquered
the Mount Everest. During this period the
diplomatic tie between Nepal and United
States of America was also established.
Since then the US paid special attention in
development of the Himalayan Kingdom of
Nepal. The then University of Oregon Professor of Education Dr. Hugh Wood was appointed as the advisor to the newly formed
Ministry of Education in Nepal. Under his
guidance various educational projects were
introduced. One of the most important events
that took place in between Nepal and Oregon
is visit of eight Nepali Students, Mr. Trailokya
Natha. Uprety, Mr. Krishan Raj Aryal, Mr.
Narendra Bahadur Basnet, Mr. Shyam Raj
Dhoj, Mr. Bhuvan Lal Joshi, Mr. Dirgha Man
Shreshta, Mr. Ram Sunar Shreshta, Mr.
Rama Prashad Tandukar, to Eugene for
teacher training education at the University
of Oregon in June 1955. In addition, the royal
visit of late King Mahendra and Queen
Mother Ratna at the University and decoration with award of “Distinguished Service
citation” on May 6th 1960, were remarkable
events in the history of Nepal and Oregon
relationship.
Dr. Wood lived in Nepal for several
years and guided extensively to build a college of Education and to establish the Tribhuvan University in 1959. The building of the
site was planned and designed by the Oregon
Architect Mr. James Tuley.
Email: info@nepalseattle.org
Year 3, Issue 6
Since the first batch of Nepali students was
returned to homeland with the Masters
degree from the U of O and with high quality of experience and knowledge of teacher
training, the Nepalese Education System
took a different approach in providing a
qualitative education to Nepali people.
After returning to returned to Eugene, Dr.
Wood established the American-Nepal Education Foundation, ANEF) that consists of
educators Chales D Byrne, Federick Hunter
Paul Ackerman, Wallace McCrea and
Mrs.H.B.Ferrin, as directors, to help Nepali
people by providing opportunity to study in
the American institutions. The foundation
was run by Dr. Wood until he took his last
breathe in 1997. Since then a flow of
Nepali students were continuously took
place in various educational institutions in
the state of Oregon including University of
Oregon, Oregon State University, Portland
State University, Willamette University,
Concordia University, Western Oregon University, Oregon Institute of Technology,
Linfield College, Lane Community College,
Portland Community College, Reed College
and so on. In lieu of the dedication to Nepalese Educational development Dr. Hugh
Wood was honored with the high ranking
“Birendra Prajnaalankar” award by the late
King Birendra in 1993. This is certainly an
extraordinary contribution from the Oregonians in the educational development of
Nepal. Until Today several research works
have been already completed through Oregon institutions on various topics of Nepal.
Currently, the geography department at the
Portland State University (PSU) publishes
the Himalayan Research Bulletin (HRB)
that focuses research on Nepal and Himalayan region under the Association for
Study of Nepal and Himalayas (ASNH). In
addition, the International Nepal Bhasha
Seva Samiti (INBSS) publishes ‘Newah
Vijnaana’ the Journal of Newar Studies
since 1997. The teaching of Nepalese languages to Oregonians was started in 1992
through various institutions in Eugene and
Portland.
Turning the subject to different
area, the Oregonians have contributed not
only in educational development but also in
other fields of volunteer activities. In 1975,
the then mayor of Eugene Mr. Anderson
took an official visit to Kathmandu and in
return he proposed to establish a sister city
relation with the people of Kathmandu. It
was the second sister city to Eugene. The
first one was established with Chinju, South
Korea in 1970. Currently there are four
sister cities linked with Eugene including
Kakegawa, Japan and Irkutsh, Russia.
Since the beginning of Sister City relationship Eugene people created lots of projects
for Nepal. One of
the
successful
projects
was
scholarship
to
less privileged 22
girls of Siddhi
Pokhari
High
school in Pokhari
Village of Eastern
Nepal. The project was started
in 1990 and gave
scholarships to pay their tuition and supplies
for 5 years until they finish their high school
education. It was terminated in 1996 due to
recognition of free public education to girls
until high school. In 1992, the first Sister city
delegation of 10 volunteers was led by the
then chairperson of Eugene city council Dr.
Shawn Boles and the committee president
Mr. Daya Shakya. In return, sister city committee invited three people’s delegation including Deputy Mayor of Kathmandu Mr.
Nabindra Raj Joshi, Kathmandu chapter
President Bhikkhu Maitri and an environmentalist Dr. Shree Shaha in 1993. The result of
this delegation exchange brought a concept
of launching the Safa Tempo Project (STP)
which helps to keep control of air quality of
Kathmandu City from excessive exhaust of
carbon mono-oxide from three wheel vehicles. Currently there are hundreds of electrical vehicles running in the streets of Kathmandu and the Government banned on importing non electrified three wheels. This
project was successfully completed under
the supervision of Global Resources Institute
(GRI) established by Dr. Peter Moulton and
Marylyn Cohen in Eugene. In addition the
solar electrification project of Gompas Monasteries locatd in remote villages of Nepal
was initiated by Dennis Ramsey in Eugene
and partially funded through the sister city
committee. The second delegation was taken
place in memory of 25th anniversary relationship between Kathmandu and Eugene in
2000. A symbol of friendship between two
cities is depicted by installation of the Nepali
style Dhara ‘water fountain’ in vicinity of Metery Bagaicha ‘Friendship Garden’ in the
premises of city office of Eugene.
Due to large number of flow of
Nepali people in the state of Oregon they
have realized to form a formal organization to
foster Nepali Cultural heritage and social
bondage to help each other. Currently over
two hundreds of Nepali people have been
living in Portland, Salem, Eugene, Corvallis,
Bend, and Ashland. The Nepali Association of
Oregon (NAO) was formed with nine executive
members under the leadership of Mr. Raju
Mali as the first President on April 13, 2001.
Contd. on page 23...
Website: http://www.nepalseattle.org
Page 19
Year 3, Issue 6
lahof bzdL tyf lbkfjnL @)^! sf]
z'vb cj;/df oxf+sf ;Dk"0f{ ;fyL
efO{x?df xfd|f] dËndo z'esfdgf 5 .
d / d]/f] kl/jf/sf] tkm{af6 ;Dk"0f{ l;of6nsf
;fyLx?n] k|tIo ck|tIo x[boaf6 lbg' ePsf]
xf};nf / ;befjnfO{ w]/} w]/} wGoafb lbg
rfxG5f}+ . ;fy} a8f bz} @)^! sf] xflb{s
dËndo z'esfdgf 6qmofp+b5f}+ .
Hemanta Rana & Shova Rana
Ram B. Malla
and Shobha Malla
Namaste!
Happy Vijaya Dashami
And
Deepawali 2061
From Annapurna Café
Annapurna Cafe
1833 Broadway Ave.
Seattle, WA 98122
Tel. 206-320-7770
Website: www.annapurnacafe.com
Email: info@nepalseattle.org
Website: http://www.nepalseattle.org
Page 20
Year 3, Issue 6
Contd. from page 14...
PILGRIMAGE TO KAILASH
From Kailash we head for the holy lake of Manasarovar. In Buddhist/Hindu tradition one should circumambulate the lake seven times to gain a better
reincarnation in the next life and blessings in this one. We will have time to explore its shores if not to quite make seven times around. It is a remarkable sight - a lake this size in the middle of a vast high altitude desert plateau. After almost a week in this hallowed area we head east towards Shigatse and ultimately the forbidden city of Lhasa.
A three to four days on the road then brings us to Shigatse on the main Lhasa - Kathmandu road. Shigatse, with a population of over 43,000, is one of
the largest towns in Tibet. We have a day here, most of which will be spent on a visit to the famed Tashilumpo Monastery, built in 1447 by the first
Dalai Lama. Although the monk population of Tashilumpo has dwindled from over 4,000 in the early 1950's to around 700 now, it is still a very active
monastery and you will often see the monks pursuing their very lively religious and philosophical debates in the main courtyard. Time permitting, a
walk to the local Tibetan markets is well worth while. There is not a lot to buy but the chance to watch the Tibetans bargain is always great entertainment!
Then, Lhasa ! Your first view of the Potala Palace, perched atop Marpori ("the red mountain") is one of those sights you read and dream about from
the first time you ever read a word about this mysterious land. It is no disappointment. Begun in the 7th century but not reaching its full glory until the
reign of the 5th Dalai Lama, the Potala is built entirely of wood, earth and stone and its 13 storey rise 117 m. It has over 1000 rooms and one of our
main aims in Lhasa is to explore those of them open to the public. Apart from visiting this great palace, our three days in Lhasa are spent taking in the
other great sights in and around the city. The Norbulingka -Summer Palace of the Dalai Lama - was begun by the 7th Dalai Lama and rebuilt by the
current Dalai Lama in the 1950's. It was from here that His Holiness fled in his escape to India in 1959. We will also visit the Jhokhang Temple, the
religious and geographical centre of Lhasa and the most important monastery in the world for all sects of Tibetan Buddhism. Tibetans, many of whom
are very old or infirm and have walked hundreds of kilometers to see the Jhokhang once in their lives, cue for hours to enter this temple and perform
their ritual circuit of its many and sacred shrines. It is quite a moving experience to be able to join them in the dark hallways lit only by butter lamps and
accompanied by their low chants. The market area around the great Jhokhang is called the Barkhor and is a real slice of old Tibet. Whilst many of the
goods on sale are Chinese those buying them are definitely not! People from all corners of Tibet come to Lhasa - striking Khampas from the east with
their hair plaited and caught with red braid, or pilgrims from Amdo and Chumbi. The Barkhor is the real Tibet and you could spend hours just sitting
and watching the passing parade. Be warned, however - the locals are not always pleased about having their photos taken Be sure to ask first.
Our tour of Lhasa in these four days will also include visits to monasteries outside of the city, notably the famed monasteries of Drepung and Sera.
There will also be free time to allow you to just wander around Lhasa and get the feel of the place for yourself. You may like to take a walk down to the
Kyichu River and watch the locals fish from their yak-skin coracles or perhaps return to spend a few hours rediscovering the Potala or Jhokhang. From
Lhasa we take one of the most spectacular flights in the world - south across the Great Himalaya to Kathmandu.
CLIMATE
Because most of Tibet is above 4000m and in the rain shadow of the Himalaya the weather tends to be dry for most of the year. Being a high altitude
desert temperatures can fluctuate wildly between day and night and even if, during the day, the sun disappears behind a cloud. In summer -May to
September -daytime temperatures on a clear day may reach as high as 35 C but may drop to - 10C at night. In winter daytime temperatures may drop
below zero if it is overcast and even when it is sunny, it is usually very cold. The climatic variations are as applicable for the trek as for Lhasa. Naturally, nights will be colder at Wesak and at higher altitudes- perhaps as low as -15C - but the days, if sunny, will be mild to hot. You need to be prepared for everything ALL the time.
At any time of the year the sun is fierce and you must be extremely careful to protect yourself against it. High altitude sun is deceptive, especially when
it is cold, and can burn you badly before you realise it. The wind is another unpredictable element in Tibet. We recommend you bring a rain jacket, not
so much in case of rain as this is unlikely, but as a windbreak as dust and wind storms are not uncommon and can blow up at any time of year with
little or no warning. And, of course, as this trip begins in Nepal and you could encounter monsoon rain there - a rain jacket is well-advised.
Please note : It is unlikely but possible that weather conditions may cause the route of any trek or tour to be altered. The operator reserves the right to
do this and at all times a route change will be made at the discretion of the Group Leader.
Mr. Rana can accommodate any requests you have for FIT/Group Travel to Kailash/Mansorover and Tibet from the USA.
Tel. 206-440-7419.
“ Happy Vijaya Dashami 2061”
From Yours
Ravi SJB Rana
President
Nepal Seattle Society (NSS)
Email: info@nepalseattle.org
Website: http://www.nepalseattle.org
Year 3, Issue 6
Page 21
Contd. from page 8...
Bada Dashain 2061
Ko Subhakamana !
MERO NEPAL
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Climate: Nepal has four major seasons, namely,
(1) Winter: December-February
(2) Spring: March-May
(3) Summer: June-August
(4) Autumn: September-November
People: Nepal has more than 61 ethnic groups and 70 spoken
languages: Newars, Brahmins, Tibetans, Gurungs, Magars,
Tamangs, Bhotias, Rais, Limbus, Sherpas.
Time: Nepal standard time is 5 hours 45 minutes ahead of
GMT.
Anupma Gurung
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FESTIVALS:
Nepal's festive calendar is hectic. Dashain, celebrated nationwide in October, is the most important of all Nepalese
celebrations. It is the longest and most favorite festival of
Nepal. Everyone stays home, offices are close. Families and
friends unite; feasts and blessing are passed on. The skies
are filled with kites and the marketplaces are filled with
shopper, farmers bringing their buffaloes, goats and chicken
to sell. The animals are to be sacrifices to goddess Durga. On
the day of dashami, everyone puts on new clothes and goes
to honor their elders and they receive red tikas.
Running a close second is Tihar (November) know as festival
of lights, animals (crows, dogs, cows and oxen) are honored
rather than slaughtered. On the night of lakshmi puja, garlands are hung and lamps are lighted to invite lakshmi
(goddess of wealth). Mha puja, the New Year’s Day according
to the Nepal Era, is the day when people give themselves
blessing. Women play “Bhailo” and men play “Deusi”. Tihar
ends with bhai tika, when sisters make offerings to their brothers.
Other festivals celebrated nationally include Basanta
Panchami/spring festival. The water-tinged Holi and Chaitra
Dasain (April).Maha Shivaratri, the Gai Jatra and Ghode jatra,
the Krishna Jayanti, teej/festival for women. Buddhist celebrations include Mani Rimdu, Buddha Jayanti and Losar (Tibetan
New Year).
Though small in size Nepal has
immense cultural and
natural diversity, is one of the most beautiful countries on
the world. The friendliness and hospitality of the Nepali people, where guests are treated as Gods, has variety of exciting
adventure activities, history, and many other to share with.
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Welcome to Nepal...........!!!
Nabita Khanal
Email: info@nepalseattle.org
Website: http://www.nepalseattle.org
Year 3, Issue 6
Page 22
NSS UPCOMING EVENTS NSS LIFE LONG MEMBERS
♦ November, 2004: His Excellency Ambassador
Kedar Bhakta Shrestha is visiting Seattle. NSS is
planning to organize a welcome evening. We want
your support to join us. Dates and venue will be
informed later.
NSS is indebted to your guidance at
all times of need. We seek your
support in the days to come. Thank you.
Arthur Hrin
Bijit Giri
Chhong Karma Sherpa
Evangeline Erskine
Lalu Chhetri
Tashi Sherpa
Tirtha Khanal
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♦ November, 2004: Tihar Festival / Deusi Bhailo
♦ Winter Fund Raising Program
♦ April 2005: Nepali New Year 2062 Celebration
♦ April 2005: Welcome New NSS Committee
For details about all upcoming events, please
continue to check our website:
http://www.nepalseattle.org and we will send
emails to our members and friends.
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Madan, Bandana, Mabin
Shrestha & Family
Email: info@nepalseattle.org
Website: http://www.nepalseattle.org
Year 3, Issue 6
Page 23
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By Ram Raja Shah (Dhakre)
Kathmandu, Nepal
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Contd. from page 18...
Linking Nepal & Oregon
Since its formation NAO successfully organized the public shows and
participated in Asian heritage activities in Eugene and Portland. It
also publishes the ‘Namaste’ newsletter twice a year and establishes
a web site www.nepaloregon.org to update the association’s activities
in regular basis. The NAO organizes community gathering three times
a year for New Year celebration, summer picnic and Dashain festival.
The Asian Reporter local newspaper has recognized NAO members
as the exemplary volunteers among the other Asian communities.
Beside all these, a link with Nepal can not be completed without examining the business entrepreneurs that focus on promotion of hand
made beautiful Nepalese crafts. The Nepalese artists are well received around the world and they produce high quality of fine art
pieces in metal, wood, papers products and paintings. Gifts from
Afar, Kathmandu to you, Himalayan Gifts, Shakti Blues in Portland,
Potala House, Greater Goods in Eugene, Kathmandu Gift Shop in
Salem, promote Nepalese arts and crafts in Oregon.
Another area of linking Nepal and Oregon can be viewed
under Nepali people’s contribution in building up the Taekwondo
Martial art in the state of Oregon. The Founder of Nepal Taekwondo
field Grandmaster Mr. JK Shin was moved to Oregon and established
the US West Coast Taekwondo Association in 1988 and invited few
players from Nepal and resume Taekwondo Training Schools in Portland. The current trend of International Championship was first initiated in 2000 by Master Diwakar Maharjan in Kathmandu, Nepal as a
result of success and popularity gained through the training center
located at the Hollywood district. The contribution made by this
school is highly credible. It has been realized by Portlanders that the
Taekwondo is not only a game but also a part of life that fits for all
ages. Its seven moral characters are the guiding principles for the
success of life. The participants and players certainly appreciate your
understanding of true meaning of Taekwondo and its technique of
keeping healthy, moral and peaceful society. Apart from the Taekwondo, Nepalese people also have formed the Nepal Sports Club of
Oregon (NESCO) to promote sports activities in the community.
Life is a Butterfly
By Avishek Rana
Life is a butterfly
you got to catch it
before it flies away,
but if you catch it
too hard it fades away...
Life is the Sun that shines
& the Moon that falls,
Life is all about troubles
& the daily 911 calls...
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Email: info@nepalseattle.org
Searching for happiness,
we only find sorrow,
knowing that there may never
be a tomorrow...
Website: http://www.nepalseattle.org
Page 24
Year 3, Issue 6
News from Alpine Ascents Foundation, Sherpa Education Fund
By Alison Gardner-Shelby
Sherpa Education Fund offers an Everest Base Camp Trek
Want to visit one of the most exciting travel destinations on earth and help Nepali children? The Sherpa Education Fund
will be offering a fund raising trek to Everest base camp. If you have not yet made the trek, this would be a wonderful
opportunity to visit the Sherpa region of Nepal while meeting sponsored children at our school and taking part in other
cultural activities. Please contact Kathy at Kathy@SherpaFund.org for details, or call Alpine Ascents International’s office at (206) 378-1927, and check out the Everest Trek page of Alpine Ascents International’s web site at
www.alpineascents.com/everest-trek.asp. The trek runs from April 17 – May 9, 2005.
New Executive Director for the Foundation
We are pleased to announce Kathy Fowells as the new Executive Director for the Sherpa Education Fund. Kathy will be
taking over from Alison Gardner-Shelby, adding her own unique flavor to the ever growing SherpaFund. Alison is stepping down from her position and will be an active member of the Board of Directors. Kathy's email address is
Kathy@SherpaFund.org
Fun, fund-raising event in New York
The SherpaFund hosted a Nepal and Mount Everest slide show presentation by Chairman and acclaimed mountaineer
Todd Burleson, help at the Pink Pony restaurant in New York on 14th September. The evening started with an “insider’s
tour” of the lower east side by local legend Timothy "Speed" Levitch. The evening was a great success, raising $1,600
for educating children from struggling Sherpa families, and was tremendous fun.
Alpine Ascents Foundation, Sherpa Education Fund was established to provide education for children from disadvantaged Sherpa families in Nepal. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, we are now supporting sixteen students for full
tuition, room, board, uniforms and books at Dorji private school in Kathmandu. By enabling the students to gain a good
education, we are supporting their families and by extension their entire community. Alpine Ascents Foundation is a
501(c)(3) corporation and all donations are fully tax deductible. See www.SherpaFund.org for details.
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Email: info@nepalseattle.org
Website: http://www.nepalseattle.org
Page 25
Year 3, Issue 6
International Nepali Literary Society (INLS)
Seattle, Washington Chapter
International Nepali Literary Society/New Hampshire Chapter (INLS/NHChapter) has extended facilitations and best wishes
both to Mrs. Jyotsana Rana as the founder president INLS/Seattle, Washington Chapter and to President Mr. Madhukar G.
Amatya in Huston, Texas Chapter.
Our important responsibility has been placed to Promote Nepali language and literature and also to celebrate Bhanu Jayanti
as well as Devkota Jayanti.
We all look forward to working closely with all chapters to further strengthen the understanding, cooperation and promotion
between us (INLS Global Network) to transition School of Language and cultures of Nepal as well as conduct other literary activities. We will together be able to take off to new common objectives in the future. We would like to congratulate both of officers and members of INLS Global Network. We wish all of you good health and Nepalese residing in the area of the fulfillment
of their personal and INLS Global Network's aims.
Founding Executive Members of INLS, Seattle, Washington Chapter:
Advisors:
Mr. Tirtha Khanal,
Mr. Amodh Karki,
President: Ms. Jyotsana Rana
Vice-President: Ms. Darlene Silliman
General Secretary: Ms. Kalpana Shrestha
Secretary: Ms. Bandana Shrestha
Treasurer: Ms. Satya Karki
Mr. Anil Shrestha
Active Members:
Mr. Madan Shrestha
Mr. Diwas K.C.
Ms. Sita Bhattarai
Mr. Basudev Bhattarai
Mr, Pushpa Shrestha
Mr. Shreekar Rana
Mr. Shiva Shah
Mr. Sushil Aryal
Mr. Kiran Shrestha
Ms. Shova Rana
Mr. Hemanta Rana
Email: info@nepalseattle.org
Contd. on page 26...
Website: http://www.nepalseattle.org
Page 26
Year 3, Issue 6
Contd. from page 25...
International Nepali Literary Society (INLS)
Email: info@nepalseattle.org
Website: http://www.nepalseattle.org
Nepal Seattle Society
a 501(c)(3) Corporation
NSS MEMBERSHIP FORM
Your First Name: ..................................................
Your Middle Name:...............................................
Your Last Name:...................................................
For family membership only,
Spouse’s First Name: .................................................
Spouse’s Middle Name:...............................................
Spouse’s Last Name:..................................................
Full Mailing Address:
..............................................................
..............................................................
Tel. Number (..............) .................................
E-mail Address :
Membership Type: (Circle one)
* Student: $5 per year (full time only)
* Individual: $10 per year
* Immediate Family: $15 per year (includes spouse and children)
* Life Long Membership: $200 one time fee (applicable per person)
Membership agreement:
By becoming a member, I hereby declare that I will follow the constitution of Nepal Seattle Society (NSS).
Signature: ........................................... Date:.........................................
Application:
Please fill out form and send it with your check to following address:
Nepal Seattle Society
P. O. Box # 45633
Seattle, WA 98145
(Please make your check payable to Nepal Seattle Society. Thank you!)
NSS officials use only
Membership number....................
Fee received..................................... Received date.........................................
Received by ..................................... Signature ...............................................
Note: You can register/renew your NSS membership online and pay membership fee through Paypal also.
This is very easy and takes only few minutes to complete. To register for the NSS membership online simply go to NSS official website http://www.nepalseattle.org and click on "Join NSS". Fill the application
form and Pay through Paypal or send check to NSS address.
Email: info@nepalseattle.org
Website: http://www.nepalseattle.org
Year 3, Issue 6
Page 28
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Congratulations
New Couples:
♦ Bina Bogati and Paramjeet Singh
New Born:
Welcome to the world! Congratulations to the proud parents:
♦ Simran, daughter of Niraj and Sovita Poudyal
♦ Sammi, daughter of Sanjay Hamal and Bimala Silwal.
New Arrivals in Seattle:
♦ Kripa Upadhyaya
♦ Alice Bhattachan ♦ Hemanta Rana
♦ Mr. and Mrs. B.B.Tamang
♦ Kiran Udas, Bhagwati Kumari Shrestha(Udas), Albina Udas and Ankit Udas
Nepal Seattle Society
♦ Mohan Kumar Shrestha and Buddha Laxmi Shrestha
P. O. Box # 45633
Seattle, WA 98145
♦ Sindhu Nath Pyakurel and Gyanu Pyakurel
Official Editors:
Ms. Lily Laemmle
Ms. Anna Hauksdottir
Outline Designed by:
Krishna Gurung
♦ Raju Bikram Adhikari, Sharmila Adhikari and Prabeshika Adhikari
♦ Sanjya Hamal and Bimala Silwal ♦ Birendra, Madhula, Baibhav and Bibhan Shrestha
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Type Setting and Graphic
Designed by:
Dhan B. Pun
Proof Read by:
Ravi SJB Rana
Feedback:
Send us your comments
or suggestions about
“Lali Gurans” at
info@nepalseattle.org
Please contact us if you are
interested to publish your articles
or advertisements in the next
NSS newsletter.
On the Web:
Visit our website at
http://www.nepalseattle.org
for up-to-date NSS news and
upcoming events. You can also
subscribe to our mailing list by
sending email to
info@nepalseattle.org
Disclaimer: Opinions expressed by the authors in
their articles do not
necessarily represent NSS
official viewpoint.
Email: info@nepalseattle.org
b]z
NEPALI POEM
By Madhu Dahal
Bellevue, WA, USA
Cell: (206) 226-5242
E-mail
tharkamanguru@hotmail.com
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L ALI G U R A N S
Newsletter of Nepal Seattle Society
Place
Stamp
Here
To:
……………………………….........................
……………………………….........................
……………………………….........................
Website: http://www.nepalseattle.org