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entertainment An Indian by birth and a New Yorker at heart, Mita Hosali shares why even when some things about NY pick on her nerves, her 4 6 9 10 love for it lives on. 13 feature events hallofframe gourmet A marathon legend Witness a selection of 1974 AD was complete Find out more about in , Baikuntha photographic images from with Firoz Syangden the cafe which has been Manandhar, comments around Nepal by Thomas back in town for famous for its home-baked on what could improve Kelly, demonstrating the role the 6th edition cakes and pies since the conditions for current of adolescent girls in Nepali of Music by the flower-power days. Nepali athletes. society. Museum.

Art for Earth’s Sake Citywide fest draws eco-artists from around the globe The International Art Festival is making a bold bid to be both a world-class festival and a voice in today’s environmental debate. Cutting-edge artists from 31 countries are here to make it happen.

— Sally Acharya

For more, turn to page 2 2 Issue 145 | 28 November 2012 Fr!day cover Art for Earth’s Sake f you love art, Kathmandu proachably hip Whitney Biennial. tistic vocabularies from dozens of present in data-driven reports phasis of the second Kathmandu can be a great place. But a non-Western location is no cultures and perspectives taking and news segments—is an imagi- International Art Festival, which For one thing, it must longer a bar to art-world promi- the place of words. native, outside-the-box, often has grown substantially since Ibe one of the world’s most nence. There are top festivals Let’s just take a few topics at quirky sensibility that can cut to the painting-focused debut in stunning cities. Despite its cur- these days in Istanbul, Turkey; random. Our food supply, for in- the emotional heart of issues and 2009, makes it a rare opportunity rent state of smoggy sprawl, its Sharjah, United Arab Emirates; stance. get us to think in new ways, much to see cutting-edge work of the identity is inseparable from its and even Dakar, Senegal. Bangla- How do the chickens we eat like good Socratic teachers. kind highlighted at the Venice aesthetic legacy. Kathmandu is desh has a lively arts scene and for dinner here in the developing There are artists in the festi- Biennale and other top festivals, still its swoop-roofed temples, its a biennale of its own. India and world get to our table as “mod- val grappling with timely matters but which Kathmandu seldom looming Bhairavs and Buddhas, host art summits that ernization” sets in? Nameera straight out of the headlines— encounters. And the thought- the casual interplay of art and life draw critical attention. Ahmed offers a 21st century Pak- glacial melt, overpopulation, loss provoking, often challenging art at its corner shrines. Festival director Sangeeta istani counterpart to Upton Sin- of biodiversity—and timeless will be found not only in galleries But no one would argue that Thapa launched the triennial clair’s The Jungle and provokes philosophical and spiritual ques- and museums, but in traditional it’s a hub of contemporary art. At in 2009 after years of visiting questions about the real cost of tions that may relate to tradition- neighborhoods such as Nag Ba- least not yet. similar events around the sub- cheap meat. al art forms. They explore what it hal and architectural treasures That will change for one continent. “I thought, ‘Why not Look at her video-art piece means to live among manipulated such as Mul Chowk at Patan eventful month as the Kathman- Nepal?’ We have no reason to lag and then consider the glossy, nature in Finland, or flee ecologi- Durbar Square, where it will be du International Art Festival, behind,” she says. “We’re connect- high-tech world of the United cal catastrophe in the Balkans, or seen in the context of Nepal’s also known as Artmandu, draws don a face mask in Kathmandu, or artistic and environmental heri- artists from six continents to And the thought-provoking, often stand at the border of Haiti and tage. display their work, create their Dominican Republic viewing the “A lot of the artwork will installations and produce their challenging art will be found not stark real-world impact of differ- be centered around the historic performances at numerous ven- only in galleries and museums, but in ent political and economic poli- center of Patan, which is such ues around the city, from modern traditional neighborhoods. cies. an amazing place,” Thapa says. galleries and artists’ spaces to Participants were chosen by “We’ll be able to see the 21st cen- traditional chowks and historic ed globally, we don’t have politi- Arab Emirates as seen by a true international jurors and often tury in 16th century spaces. The courtyards. cal problems with our neighbors, global citizen, China-born Lan- work in such hard-to-categorize was a center Even the Boudhanath stupa we’re in a good location. We’re re- tan Xie, who was raised partly in forms as installation and multi- for art in the past, and it can be will get into the act, with lights ally ready to host such festivals.” Bahrain and divides his time be- media art. The avant-garde em- once again.” ! playing across the stupa’s iconic There’s also another goal: to tween the United Arab Emirates At a glance shape to the sound of chanting show what art can bring to the and City. Move around during a collaboration between discussion about today’s press- his prize-winning digital installa- What Second Kathmandu International Art Festival Buddhist nuns reciting ancient ing issues. The participants in tion on fast food and see how the When texts and Eurpean artists wield- this year’s festival, with its theme “menu” changes. Are we really 25 November to 21 December ing 21st century technology. of ‘Earth|Body|Mind’, have a controlling the choices we make? What’s Ongoing art exhibits, performances, “happenings,” It’s a time for the city to see shared interest in the environ- What is the relationship between happening symposia, screenings, guided talks, master classes with what’s happening in contempo- ment as a subject matter. In effect, what we see and Arab culture? artists, collaborative events with environmental and youth organizations rary art and for the art world to it will be a huge international There will be as many questions see what Kathmandu offers as a conversation on humanity’s inter- (and possible answers) as viewers. Where Numerous locations around the valley (refer to the ‘in festival destination. Sure, it can’t action with the earth. Think of When it comes to social issues, numbers’ section) compete with the 117-year-old it as a miniature United Nations one thing artists bring to the To find out Visit artmandu.org for information on venues, times, Venice Biennale or the unap- symposium, with images and ar- debate—something not always more Saturday shuttle service and more page3 make your statement event surveillance

Kiaf in Numbers 3 Days of Symposiums – 26, 27 and 28 November at Patan Museum from 1 pm to 28 Days of Festival 5 pm Some of the performances and events 25 Nov • Performance by Rudra Band • Performances by Salil Kanika and ‘Pancha • Book Launch “Prerana and Lal Pila” by Buddha’ by Subima Shrestha Art Work by Lok Chitrakar Buddhisagar Chapain & Rumana Hussain • Performances by Leang Seckon, 27 Nov Cambodian with local community artists Gopal Kalapremi, Sunita Maharjan, Saurganga Darshandhari, and other displays by Gary Womell • Kora (3D projection) of Gaynor Sanjeev Maharjan, Birendra Pratap Singh, Sumeet Shakya, Sudarshan O’Flynn, UK at Bouddha Nath Stupa Rana, Sagar Manandhar, Narayan Prasad Bohaju, Mili Pradhan, • ‘Action Existence’ performance by Mekha Limbu, Prasiit Sthapit, Meena Kayastha, Sadish Dhakal, Mongolian artists - Nomad Wave • Performance by Valeria Geremia Sheelasha Rajbhandari, Sunil Sigdel, Jupiter Pradhan, Lok Chitrakar, 21 26 Nov 28 Nov Kirti Kaushal Joshi, Hitman Gurung, Asha Dangol. Nepali Artists • Speech by Indian artist Paula Sen Gupta and • PechaKucha Nite by Sujan Chitrakar performance by Nomad Wave at Kasi Restaurant. Cash bar available at venue. Artist/Dancer/ • Live Presentation of ‘Pakdai/Bikdai Choreographer: Maanche Haru’ by Gopal Kala Premi 29 Nov Valeria Geremia • Cycle Rally from Mangal Bazaar to Naag Daha and back with Kathmandu Cycle City • ‘Moon Ride’ by Roland Graf, Austrian 74 artist International Artists Performance Nomad Wave , Austria, , Brazil, , Cambodia, Canada, China, , Egypt, , Finland, France, Germany, India, Iran, Italy, , , Mongolia, 4 Nepal, 31 Netherlands, Saturdays Countries Pakistan, Palestine, Nepal Tourism Board, Boudha Nath, British Council, with Philippines, Poland, Central Zoo, Image Ark Gallery, Kathmandu South Korea, Sri Contemporary Arts Centre (KCAC), Metro Park, Mul Shuttle Lanka, Thailand, 16 Chowk of Patan Durbar Square, NAFA, Nag Bahal, Nepal U.S.A, United Art Council, Nepal Investment Bank, Newa Chhen, Patan Kingdom Venues Museum, Siddhartha Art Gallery, Summit Hotel Service feaissues that matter ture A Lifetime of Sports Baikuntha Manandhar, the marathon legend, reminisces his past while pointing out what we can do right in international sporting platforms.

— Sumina Subba

“ ack then, we all trained a khiladi, mismanagement and warm beds but an empty school in the big ground of Tu- lack of proper facilities always with straw beds waiting for us. dikhel. Rangashala was proved to be hindrance for de- The girls would sleep at one Bbuilt much later,” re- velopment. The tale sounds side and the boys on the other. members the marathon champ, like a heroic start; however, While competing for the Na- Baikuntha Manandhar, 60. As Manandhar vividly remembers tional Meet, I slept on the floor the first Nepali athlete to com- that life as an athlete was never of a hotel lobby. Later, the hotel pete in the1976 Montreal Olym- a bed of roses. owner was gracious enough to pics, Manandhar laments the “An Indian trainer, Bidhya provide me free food and lodg- haphazard condition in which Sagar, trained me along with ing. When I won the gold med- the present day athletes have a group of 40-50 athletes. He al, the authorities did not want to train. He not only expresses really loved us because he saw to publish my name because I grief but also disappointment the conditions upon how we was too young for the competi- regarding the glacier speed at were grooming ourselves to be- tion. They could not believe that which the state is looking after come professionals. We did not a school champion had achieved the national players. His own even have proper meals to eat,” it.” fascination with sports com- Manandhar still vividly recalls. Even after earning the title menced at the young age of 13 Even when he went for the Na- of a National Champion, life when he started participating in tional Meet, a landmark event as an athlete had little finan- his school, Shanti Nikunja’s ex- in his career, unfavourable con- cial assurance. The situation, tracurricular activities. By the ditions always stuck to him like although getting better, is still age of 16, he was already train- a shadow. While training for the a major problem for our state- ing under the guidance of Min- event, he along with other ath- level players. Apart from this is- all his credits to his two coach- The problem appears insig- istry of Education’s Sports de- letes had to make do on meagre sue, Manandhar points out that es, Madhu Shamsher Rana and nificant in front of the monu- partment and became a national resources available to them. As Coaches of today have a lot to Laxman Bikram Shah for kick mental difficulty all the athletes champion at 18. Although, his he explains, “I slept on straw be- learn and yet to realise the vi- starting his athletic journey, have been continuously facing burning passion for sports sur- cause we did not have any funds tal role they play in moulding a there is a huge difference be- from one decade to another – passed the stigma of being just backing us. There would be no player. For a person who gives tween the coaches of then and incomplete attention from the now. Traditional methods of government. For a country like training are just not adequate to Nepal, it is hard to train poten- compete with world class play- tial athletes. As if the insuffi- ers. Scientific training along cient attention was not enough, with enhanced diet is a must for the shaky political situation fur- producing physically fit athletes. ther adds fuel to the fire. It will Not only this, another problem take a lot of time for a country corroding the development is, like ours to produce top-notch he believes, the lack of discipline athletes. As the champ wisely in the athletes themselves. This explains that expecting a lot is where the role of the coaches from players who are 24-25 comes in. They should act like years old is not justified because the prototype upon which the their performance decreases trainees shape themselves which with their age. For our country I feel the coaches have yet to realise that they play a much bigger role in an athlete’s life than just instructing. is not happening right now as he to win in international games says, “To become an athlete, one like the Asian Games and the should take a bhismapratigya Olympic games, the authori- to work hard and prove oneself. ties should go from one village To become a disciplined player to another and handpick 12-13 is a serious dedication. I feel the years old boys and train them. coaches have yet to realise that Not only train them but also ed- they play a much bigger role ucate them, contribute to their in an athlete’s life than just in- development in totality. Albeit structing. Only a trainer can the facilities are getting better, help them understand the true it will take a minimum of twelve value of a controlled and disci- to thirteen years for us to gener- plined life.” ate first-class players. !

D.A.O. Lalitpur Regd. No.77-066/67 ECS Media Pvt. Ltd, Kupondole, Lalitpur, Nepal. 5011571. No. 145 28 November 2012

Publisher: ECS MEDIA Pvt. Ltd. Editor: Sunil Raj Shrestha Director, Editorial & Marketing: Nripendra Karmacharya Sr. Manager, Editorial & Marketing: Neeraz Koirala Sr. Manager, Editorial & Marketing: SUDEEP SHAKYA Asst. Editor: Srishti rl shah Sr. Manager, Business Planning & Development: RUPESH SHAKYA Editorial Coordinator: Eren Shrestha Manager, Editorial & Promotions: Niladri S. Parial Inhouse Writers: Akriti Shilpakar, Suprasanna Asst. Manager, Editorial & Promotions: Bijaya adhikari Aryal Assistant Design Executive: anjan ale Color Separation: Sr. Photographer: Dash B. Maharjan CTP Nepal Pvt. Ltd, HATTIBAN, Photographer: Umesh basnet, Yogendra 525.0466, 525.0468 Maharjan, Anup Shrestha, amar D. rai Printing: Jagadamba Press, Hattiban, Head, Business Development: Bijendra pradhan, 525.0017/18/19 Angiras Manandhar Distributor: Kasthamandap Distribution Sr Executive, Business Development: Pvt. Ltd. 424.7241 Sachin Tamrakar Disclaimer Assistant Executive, Business Development: nirbheek Details of the event listings are accurate as per information subedi received before the date the weekly goes for printing. Fr!day is Assistants, Business Development: not responsible for any changes. Babish Maharjan, Samar Manandhar Columnists are entitled to their own views and opinions. They do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of ECS Media and Ad Enquiries: [email protected] the organizaton cannot be held liable for the same. Readers are Sr. Subscription & Distribution Executive: encouraged to write to us at [email protected] Bikram Shrestha Our sister publications

TOP 3 With events to the left and right, Fr!day makes it a little bit easier for you to choose events to check out this week and the next. Here are our top three picks: eget morevents out of your weekends 1. Vintage I: 1905 A talk with Kai Weise followed by poetry recitation by Murad Ali on Nepal’s architectural legacy will surely make a wonderful evening. 2. Kathmandu International Art Festival ‘Earth, Body, Mind’ what’s on Organized by Siddhartha Arts Foundation, Kathmandu International Art Festival will see the artworks and performances by 95 artists from 31 different countries. things to do 3. Artistic Cuts- Passion for Design sun . mon . tue . wed . thu . fri . sat This fashion show will see exclusive designs of different local designers along with a line up of celebrities. 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 POST US: Email event details to [email protected] or call 5011571/ 5011639/ 5011730/ 5011731 for listings. Listings are free but inclusion is not guaranteed due to limited space.

has the power to heighten our to strengthen South Asian (India, sensitivity and to challenge the way Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Lights Out “Glow we view complex situations and Nepal) trade with the European the festival is the perfect platform markets to help build a strong and to engender meaningful dialogue sustainable platform for a long term In The Dark” Party on issues of climate change. benefit. The exhibitors could be fashion designers, jewelry designers, Date: 24 November (Saturday); Time: 1:00 pm; Venue: Club Platinum, Durbar Marg; The art festival will feature a total merchandisers, manufacturers, Contact: 9849873001, 9813822525 of 95 artists from 31 countries at exporters, textile businessmen, 16 venues. boutique and brand owners, retail Organised by Bravo Events, Lights Out is a ‘glow in the dark’ party. According to association bodies, travel agencies Bravo Events, this will be the first UV glow party in Club Platinum this year. Music For more information, visit www. and government tourism boards. will be provided by DJ CCR who will be playing electro, progressive and house artmandu.org. First Kathmandu is the Nepal Partner music. To fully enjoy yourself, follow the dress code of wearing white or neon outfits for the fair. For application details and watch your body glow under black light. MUSIC AND PARTIES contact the office of First Kathmandu. Early bird tickets include a free glow accessory and free glow paint which is harmless Live @ Cafe 32 Application Fee: 2,500 Euros for external use. Tickets are available for pre-sale at Café de Cave, New Road, and Date: 23 November (Friday) Mohan’s Tattoo Inn, Thamel. Time: 6 pm onwards Miscellanous Tickets: Rs. 200 (pre-sale), Rs. 500 Venue: Cafe 32, Battisputali 4486782 Artistic Cuts- Passion for Design Enjoy live music every Friday at Date: 23 November (Friday) Cafe 32 with your friends and Time: 5:45 pm onwards loved ones. Pair-up live music Venue: Hotel Yak & Yeti, Durbar with delicious food in a laid back Marg ambience at the terrace or the Qs 9818370720 garden area of the eatery. With Deep Shahi Organiser The Imperial I presents Artistic Fair and Expo Cuts- Passion for Design that will 3 see exclusive designs—‘Femme Will You Glow? Handicraft Trade Fair Fatale’ by Pragya Chitrakar, ‘Beau With a unique theme, Bravo Events aims to introduce new ideas Opening Date: 22November Monde’ Fashionable Society by Sonu in the party scene. (Thursday) Pokhrel Shah, ‘Juvenile Orgasm’ by Disclaimer: Closing Date: 26 November Yubi Thapa and ‘Glitz N Glamour’ by Fr!day does not endorse any event printed, mentioned or listed in the (Monday) Manju Basnet and Sajita Karki. The What is the objective of this party? celebrity line up for the show are publication. Event participants are advised The main objective of this event is to officially launch Bravo Events in Nepal with Time: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm to cross-refer to sources for validation. Venue: Brikutimandap Exhibition Ruby Rana Shah (First Miss Nepal), new ideas. Here in Nepal, we have known only pool parties, costume parties Hema Shrestha (Miss Tourism and normal wine and dine parties. But a ‘Glow in the Dark’ party is generally a Hall 4244231 Queen Nepal 2008), Anupama Aura new concept and theme that we’re introducing to the people in Kathmandu. This Gurung (Miss Nepal Earth 2012), is completely different from other events because our props include glow eye Organized by the Federation of Neelam Chand (Miss Global Intl events glasses, LED lights, glow bangles, fluorescent colours and glow face paints, all of Handicraft Association of Nepal Queen), Samridhi Rai (Miss Tourism index which we are importing. We will also be offering complimentary glow cocktails (FHAN), the 10th Handicraft Queen Intl Nepal 2010), Nilima THURSDAY for the early birds. Moreover, professional tattoo artists have been hired for Trade Fair is taking place from Maden Limbu (Miss Limbu 2012), temporary glow face painting with an air brush for the event. Handicraft Trade Fair (Fair and Expo) 22 to 26 November and will be Laxmi Subba (First Runner-up Miss SA Trade Fair (Fair and Expo) How did you decide on the theme? focusing on promoting handicraft Purwanchal 2011) and Bhumika products both domestically and Shrestha (First Miss Pink). VJs Sushil FRIDAY I was a party lover and used to go to a lot of parties but later I felt a sense of Artistic Cuts- Passion for Design boredom attending and organizing these regular parties so I started researching in the regional markets. The trade Nepal, Arati Acharya, Alisha Basnet, fair also aims to apprise the local (Miscellaneous) for new ideas and themes. It was recently I got self-motivated to implement new Devan Khadka and Supriya Tuladhar Handicraft Trade Fair (Fair and Expo) strategies when I felt my previous events were unsatisfying and didn’t work out. I customers and concerned traders will also be there. Live @ Cafe 32 (Music and Parties) discussed with the DJs from different clubs and they suggested I use black lights about the various handicrafts and new products produced in the Vintage I: 1905 SATURDAY under which all fluorescent colours glow. I did a lot of research over the internet Date: 23 November (Friday) and music videos to introduce this unique event for the first time in Nepal. country and abroad. Barbeque Brunch Bazaar (Miscellaneous) Time: 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm Glow In the Dark Party (Music and Tell us more about Bravo Events. The event is co-organized with Venue: 1905, Kantipath Parties) We were established unofficially on 14 September 2012 with our first event the Ministry of Commerce and Handicraft Trade Fair (Fair and Expo) Be part of a wonderful evening at Saturday bird watching (Miscellaneous) “Masquerade Party” at Barista Café and Lounge in Satdobato. We’re looking Supplies and the Trade and Export Promotion Centre. There will 1905, with Kai Weise and Murad forward to register ourselves officially after this event. Members of the organizing Ali. The event will see a talk by Kai SUNDAY committee of this event are Doma Sherpa, Sujan Pandit, Neha Pathak and myself. be 200 stalls featuring handicraft items like silver jewelries, pashmina, Weise, an architect with UNESCO, Handicraft Trade Fair (Fair and Expo) (Gita Limbu) on his memories of 1905 and the Kathmandu International Art Festival thanka paintings, wood and paper ‘Earth, Body, Mind’ (Art and Theater) craft among others. The event also need for protecting Nepal’s heritage. promotes business-to-business It will be followed by poetry MONDAY networking among entrepreneurs. recitation by Murad Ali, bollywood Handicraft Trade Fair (Fair and Expo) The Siddhartha Arts Foundation Art and Theater actor and poet, accompanied by Kathmandu International Art Festival (SAF), a nonprofit organization Admission tickets available at Upendra Lal Singh of Nostalgia on ‘Earth, Body, Mind’ (Art and Theater) Kathmandu is currently working had to get the entrance, Price: Rs. 50, Rs. 25 the piano, and Prasanta Pokharel International Art things ready for the 2nd KIAF, titled (students) on the Spanish guitar. The main aim Tuesday Kathmandu International Art Festival Festival ‘Earth, Body, ‘Earth|Body|Mind’. The four-week of the event is to raise awareness SA Trade Fair ‘Earth, Body, Mind’ (Art and Theater) Mind’ long event includes symposiums, of Nepal’s architectural legacy Submission Date: 22 November Opening Date: 25 November art performances, a Pecha Kucha and how we can contribute to its Wednesday (Thursday) (Sunday) gathering, guided tours and preservation. You are advised to Kathmandu International Art Festival 4278825 / www.firstkathmandu. Closing Date: 21 December (Friday) screenings. dress warmly because the program ‘Earth, Body, Mind’ (Art and Theater) com / satradefair.com Time: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm will take place outdoors. The second KIAF is preparing Thursday Venue: Multiple venues including Co-organised by Feria Valencia and Kathmandu International Art Festival for the launch of the biggest art Entrance Fee: Rs. 800 (includes a public spaces Rangoli Events, the South Asian ‘Earth, Body, Mind’ (Art and Theater) gathering dedicated to issues of welcome drink) artmandu.org; 9849519933 ecology and climate change. Art Trade Fair is a planned exhibition events Fr!day Issue 145 | 28 November 2012 7

- 5:00 pm, except on Mondays and The Opening Reception of the the Kathmandu International Tuesdays), or call 9818409207 to have photo exhibition by Thomas Kelly Mountain Film Festival (KIMFF) is mark your the items picked up. will take place on 7 December at back and will be held from 7 to calendar 5:30 pm by the Deputy Head of 11 December 2012 in Kathmandu. Thamel-Mall Festival Mission of the German Embassy, KIMFF has evolved from a festival events in the next few weeks Date: 2 December (Sunday) Henning Hansen. Be there to celebrating the Himalayas to one Time: 9:00 am to 9:00 pm witness the exhibition. A selection encompassing a wide range of Venue: Thamel Mall, Thamel of photographic images from subjects and issues that explore heart-pounding live music! The two 9841801391 around Nepal, demonstrating role the diverse and complex ways in preliminary shows will be held on 7 Thamel Mall Festival, an annual event of adolescent girls in Nepali society which people relate to mountains. and 8 December whereas the final will see friends, mutual companions, will be exhibited. will be held on 15 December. The The festival will include discussion chivalrous strangers and business winning team will be awarded with (The gallery is open all week) forums, on-demand screenings, contemporaries alike, coming prizes worth Rs. 60,000 and the1st guest lectures, exhibitions together to share eco-friendly Kathmandu International runner-up and the 2nd runner-up of books and photographs products, entertainment and festival Mountain Film Festival will be awarded prizes worth Rs. celebrating mountains and of foods of various specialties— Opening Date: 7 December (Friday) 25,000 and Rs. 15,000 respectively. workshops for aspiring filmmakers. Japanese, Newari, Manange, Tibetan, Closing Date: 11 December The best vocalist, guitarist and Korean and Chinese dishes. Come (Tuesday) drummer will receive prizes worth and enjoy the discounted offers for Time: 11:00 am to 5:00 pm Rs. 15,000 each. clothing, jewelries, fancy and tribal Venue: Rastriya Sabha Griha, The participation fee for the accessories and also a pre-Christmas Brikutimandap, Nepal Tourism Board, Disclaimer: bonus discount rate offers during the Brikutimandap Fr!day does not endorse any event printed, contest is Rs. 5,000. mentioned or listed in the publication. festival. www.kimff.org, 4440635, 5542544 Event participants are advised to cross- End of the World: A New refer to sources for validation. Beginning 2013 In association with Himal Date: 31 December (Monday) ART AND THEATER Association, the tenth edition of Time: 7:00 pm onwards Adolescent Girls in Nepal Venue: Red Carpet Restro & Bar, between Tradition and Sherpa Mall, Durbar Marg Modernity 9802056034 Opening Date: 7 December (Friday) Being presented by Vital Records, the Closing Date: 16 December (Sunday) party will see musical performance Time: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm AWON Christmas Bazaar by DJ Vital. You can go for the mouth Venue: Indigo Gallery, Naxal Date: 1 December (Saturday); Time: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm; Venue: Hyatt Regency, watering snacks and an extravagant 4413580 Bouddha; Contact: 9851022363, 9851934190 fine dining environment. The bar will provide you with a variety The annual Christmas Bazaar organized by the Active Women of Nepal (AWON) of liquor options. The use of the is back this year. Known to hold many events such as October Fest and Rock and visual effects tools ordered straight Roll, the Christmas Bazaar will feature stalls of more than 100 vendors. In this MUSIC AND PARTIES from Hollywood will be the major platform for local vendors to showcase their craft and items, you can expect to attraction of the event. KCM Inter College Music find handicrafts, clothing, candles, paintings, brass and metal ware, silver jewelry Competition Tickets: Rs.999 (for Pre-Sale), and other handmade items. There will also be high tea and food items provided by the hotel as well as some of the stall holders. Date: 15 December (Saturday) Rs.1299 (for Door Sale) Time: 10:00 am to 7:00 pm For entertainment, let your children have the time of their lives at the kids’ Venue: Fun Park, Brikutimandap MISCELLaNEOUS corner with fun activities planned for the precious ones. This is a day for all to 5201997 meet up with friends and catch up over high tea in the relaxing atmosphere. Rooftop Bazaar at Sattya Alternatively, if you have a business, this is a great opportunity for business The Student Council of Kathmandu Date: 1 December (Saturday) networking in the spirit of Christmas. College of Management (KCM) is Time: 11:00 am to 4:00 pm proud to present its annual All Nepal Venue: Sattya Space, Jawalakhel Ticket: Rs. 100 (Adults), Rs. 50 (For children under 12) Inter College Music Competition 5523486, 9818409207 which will take place in December this year. Back for the ninth year, this Donate any of your items—clothes, installment promises to be bigger, appliances, books or decorations, louder and heavier with industry- which will be sold for charity. The leading lights and sound set-up. It’ll be proceeds will go to Ama ko Ghar, a concert experience like you’ve never and to Sattya. You can drop off Qs known before. So get ready for some your items at Sattya (10:00 pm With Bindu Shakya 3 Coordinator In the spirit of giving Spread the joy of Christmas with an act of charity while still having fun!

What is the objective behind this event? The Christmas Bazaar has been one of the fund-raising events for AWON (Active Women of Nepal). The money raised from this event goes to educating needy children of Nepal, with emphasis given to a girl child. What can we find at this bazaar? There will be all sorts of items that one could buy as a gift to give to their near and dear ones during Christmas. What would you say would be the highlight at this bazaar? It is probably the only event where the expatriate communities of Nepal mingle with the locals in the atmosphere of Christmas. Also, this is a platform where the local artisans and handicrafts’ artists can showcase their products for sale and furthermore promote their businesses. (Gita Limbu) events Fr!day Issue 145 | 28 November 2012 8

the week that was The Night of Tres Flamencas Gita Limbu event reviews of the Kathmandu, 8 November ‘Tres Flamencas’ was held at the Russian Center past week of Science and Culture on Thursday and Friday. The hour-long dance show was about “promoting art, and giving an opportunity to experience the lunch service arranged by Oman Air, beauty and passion of Flamenco dance as well as Product Presentation a detailed description on its features having amazing professional dancers on stage. It is and facilities along with flight schedules imperative to encourage students to perform on by Oman Air were made public. stage thereby building the confidence and ability Prabal Man Dhaubhadel to express themselves,” according to Yulia Koirala, Kathmandu, 9 November “We are not a huge airline corporation Principle of Sushila Arts Academy. but we take pride in the top notch The internationally acclaimed airline services that we have to offer. I can The show started off with the dancers, Clara carrier of the Middle East, Oman Air, truly say that we can match any airline Ramona and her company dancers Maradee de organized a product presentation company in the world in terms of Guzman and Mercedes Soler. The dances were to fellow travel agencies, media the quality of our services.” said John punctuated by three performances by Spanish personnel and other relevant parties Rodrigues, Country Manager. Awarded as Classical Guitarist, Prashant Pokharel, a guest at the Radisson Hotel on Friday. At a the best business class seat for the second musician from Sushila Arts Academy. Students from Guzman’s Flameno workshops got to showcase their dance talents in Sevillanas, Farruca and Tientos. In keeping with the passionate Spanish night, Guzman performed her WTWrendition of ‘Besame Mucho’ with accompanying music by Pokharel. Guzman said that “putting the student performances alongside professional numbers was so that people could see that Flamenco is something relatable and attainable.” The evening ended off with a solo by Clara Ramona who flew in especially for the show and will be in Nepal for a week. “It was important for me to expose the audience and my students to a high calibre and international level of a performer that Clara Ramona is. She comes with a wealth of experience and professionalism that is passed on subconsciously through just by being around her and moreover seeing her perform on stage,” shared Guzman.

year running, Oman Air, the first airline (Scooter), and Cosmos for the title company to introduce both internet ‘Best College’. and mobile network service on board, claims to pioneer in facilities provided The Chief Guest for the carnival to flight passengers. During the meet, was Dr. Keshab Shakya, Environment a presentation entailing flight charts Minister, and Revamp ramp judge was and time schedules were put up for Miss Nepal 2011 Malina Joshi. display. Promising transit hours as few “It’s the first time we are organizing the as 90 minutes on outbound and 100 Eco Carnival but we want to make it minutes on inbound, Oman Air boasts an annual event. However, that depends one of the smoothest flight schedules on how successful today’s program among international aircraft companies. will be,” shared one of the organizers, Amongst newly introduced and yet to Rejika Maharjan. The other members of be introduced schemes are business the organizing committee were Ashish class lounges, a loyalty program with Manandhar, Subrina Shrestha, Ankita three tier memberships—Blue, Gold Bagaria, Deshana Shakya, Alfa Maiya and Silver, and likewise a chauffeur Shakya, Sagar Subedi, Sumit Agrawal and service for business class passengers Shaibya Gautam. within the European network. KUSOM Eco Planet Nepal Carnival Held Concludes Suprasanna Aryal Akriti Shilpakar Lalitpur, 10 November Kathmandu, 11 November As an initiative of KUSOM Events The second edition of Planet Nepal club to direct the efforts of business Festival was a three-day festival to environment related issues, organized by the Alliance Francaise of KUSOM Eco Carnival was organized Kathmandu and the French Embassy on Saturday. The carnival started from 9 to 11 November which off at around 10:00 am, at KUSOM revolved around spreading awareness Premises, Pichhe Tole, Balkumari. The for environmental causes. The festival participating colleges were Cosmos, included artistic messages through KCM, NCM, LACM and KUSOM. photography exhibition of glaciers from all over the world. Live art performance Various competitions were held that by Karl Knapp gave the impression of the focused on creating awareness about human overcome with pollution. He used environmental and management issues. a costume made up of recycled plastic Eco-campaign documentary, slow bike bottle wrappers and bags. Similarly, race, bike safety class, bike maintenance ‘While the Moon is Shrinking’ by Soazic class, management drama, comic/ Guezennec was the confrontation of the serious debate, music and dance were progress of the city and the resilience both entertaining as well as informative of nature on the facade of the old Royal for the participants. A revamp ramp Palace in Basantapur. competition was the highlight of the event, in which participants walked Likewise a number of environmental the ramp in their dresses made out documentaries were screened at the of waste plastics, CDs and old torn Nepal Tourism Board on different dates. clothes. The winners for first positions To complement the artistic approach of the competitions were KUSOM to environmental concerns, a handful of (Artistic Biz Junk5), KCM (Thematic bands from Nepal and France performed Slogan), KCM (Alt Use), KUSOM at the Kathmandu Durbar Square. (Paper Mache), KCM (Answer Hunt), Kutumba went live on 9 November KUSOM (Revamp Ramp), KUSOM while NoJazz and Mademoiselle K played (Eco-Campaign Poster), KUSOM on 11 November at different hours of (Eco-Campaign documentary), NCM the day. All the performances except for (Management Drama), KUSOM the documentary screening took place in (Comic/serious Debate), Kolit Shakya the cultural milieu of Basantapur Durbar (KCM)-Slow Bike Race(Bike), Shiwani Square which drew a lot of public Koirala (KUSOM)-Slow Bike Race attention. hallofframe

1 2 The Chimney Lit Up! 18 November, Hotel Yak and Yeti Hotel Yak and Yeti observed the ‘Annual Lighting of the Chimney’ ceremony on Sunday in the hotel’s the Chimney Restaurant. The open brick chimney in the restaurant was lit by the Russian Ambassador to Nepal, Dr. Sergey Vasilievich Velichkin. Every year Chimney offers a time honored tradition which has been continued since the days of the founder of the then Yak and Yeti restaurant Borris Lassanvitch. The event, also marking the start of winter, saw an impressive presence of members of diplomatic missions and staff of the hotel in the chilly mid November evening. The event ended with a gala dinner organized to honor the distinguished guests present on the occasion. 1. Aye Khaing, Alf Arne Ramslien, Shree Radhe Shyam Saraf and Dr. Sergey Vasilievich Velichkin 2. Valentina Khozin 3.Olga Velichkin 4. Asko Luukkainen 5. Amy Ramslien 6. Victor Klenor

3 4 5 6

1 2 3 4 5

7 9 1974 AD Reunited 9 November, Patan Museum Marking the coming together of one of the most popular bands of Nepal – 1974 AD, Hits FM and House of Music put together a 6 melodic ‘Music by the Museum’ episode with 1974 AD playing live inside the courtyard of Patan Museum on a winter Friday evening. This assemblage was special with the return of vocalist Firoz Syangden, who was back from the . Amidst an anxious bunch 8 of dedicated 1974 AD followers of all ages, the band kicked their act off with one of their classics – “Chudaina”. As the evening progressed, the crowd got more into the beat with the likes of “Samjhibaschu”, “Parelima”, “Mutu Bhari” etc all performed live. Expect a few tracks from their newest Aath Athara, the songs performed were all popular older numbers. Acknowledging the crowd at times and cracking jokes during intervals, the band made the night a memorable one for all their fans. The band concluded the show, which lasted over two hours, with an encore on “Gurasai Fulyo”. 1. Sanjay Shrestha 2. Adrian Pradhan 3. Nirakar Yakthumba 4.Sapana Thapa 5.Sneh Rana 6.Firoz Syangden 7.Rajendra Khetan 8. Bidhata K.C. 9. Manoj K.C. entertainment let the good times begin

MITA HOSALI made for the city’s dying Anglo- be seen without one these days loves to observe, comment and sputter – but she hopes you Indian population and for Benga- – and the newest crime on the maverick’s musings take everything with a pinch of salt. When she is not penning lis with a penchant for all kinds New York City subways is, you her columns while living in of celebration, to dog coats to a guessed it, iPhone snatching and Nepal, she works for the United Nations in New York. smoked goat cheese introduced theft. New York, New York by the Portuguese called bandal I am always taken aback at how – but I dug for hours before I New Yorkers have no time for hese are little town . I realized I had to accept it – I nerves, and why I can definitely found it and it cost an equivalent anything – a breakdown of their They have all melted away am an Indian by birth, a world put up with some of the irritants of USD50. lives would show a real problem I am about to make a citizen by preference and belief, of life here but cannot imagine It’s those random conversa- with time management and a kind brand new start of it but a New Yorker by frame of living out the rest of my days tions you end up having with of alienation that is well, alien, to T people on the bus or on the train someone from Asia. People don’t right there in old New York. reference. in a fast-paced urban sprawl that The lyrics from the unforget- I am still figuring out what fascinates so many. or in the subway – and makes usually invite others over for a table ditty kind of rings in your this really means. But what I do It’s someone coming up to you smile because, contrary to meal; they are surprised when ears and makes you tap your feet know is that an adoptive New me and saying how much they what most think, New Yorkers you invite them. Friends meet in whether or not you like Frank Yorker loves and hates the city “looooooooove” my coat which I are friendly. It’s getting mowed noisy restaurants and have yelling Sinatra, Ole Blue Eyes, who at the same time. So coming happened to get in grubby New down in the morning when you contests (because it’s so noisy), eat made the song so famous. As I back after three years, I began Market, Kolkata’s covered ba- are commuting to work and ev- and run home – because they are headed back to the city where I to asking myself what I enjoy zaar where you get everything eryone is travelling downstream busy. And dysfunctionality is not have now spent most of my life, about the city, what grates on my from Christmas tree decorations, and you have decided to go up- swept under the rug, it is a fact of stream. life and treated with kid gloves. It’s the absolute shock and Of course, there are plenty disbelief how much money peo- of things that leave me excited ple spend on everything – food, and energized about the city. I drinks, coffee, clothes, hairdress- am thrilled to be able to buy food ers, nail salons. And don’t get from all over the world – and to me going – nobody in this City eat whatever cuisine takes my under a certain age knows how fancy. I am delighted to be able to cook; I mean they have the to see a wonderful play for USD Wolf or Viking commercial six- 40 – Who’s Afraid of Virginia burner ovens but they must use Woolf was a remarkable stag- it to stay warm because take-out ing with those iconic roles of and eat-out is the default mode. George and Martha played by Organic is the name of the game the noted Steppenwolf Compa- – dropping a bomb on organic ny from Chicago. I was excited produce so you can feel healthy to be at the New York Film Fes- but then head out to the diner tival to get a sneak peek at many where a shake and a big burger films from the world cinema with fries will land you a week in repertoire which will eventually the gym. But make sure you look show in theatres – but I got there svelte because you can never tell first! whom you will end up having a Still my pet peeve, bar none, chai latte with after 15 minutes is that ubiquitous, yuppie cul- on the treadmill – I mean what ture that has spread its tentacles on earth is a tea with milk pre- and is evident in the most glar- tending to be an Indian/Nepali/ ing and despicable form in the Italian frothy drink? Upper West Side. The area of And everyone throws money vintage, pre-war buildings that at beautification – hair colour, was home to artists, dancers, hair wash, haircuts, toe-nails, musicians, students and academ- finger nails, Brazilian waxes, ics, not to mention Dominicans massages and lotions and po- and Haitians and Puerto Ricans, tions. Every season there are is now the stronghold of execu- must-buys in clothes and shoes. tives from the financial world, I asked a friend where I could the media world and the cor- buy comfortable shoes that didn’t porate world. Many of them cost too much – the answer was are 40 and 50-somethings with shocking, well if you are looking double strollers and double duty for something under USD 200, nannies – and wives who have good luck! If that weren’t bad impressive degrees but can’t enough, it galls me even more possibly use their education as it that kids’ shoes can cost a cool would take time away from fun- USD 100 and there are parents draising galas and art collecting. who feel their precious offspring This is the New York that is deserve nothing less. light years away from what I love And yes, people do spend an about this city. But when the La- awful lot of time looking down – tino guy cleaning the street leans not at their feet or at the dog dirt over and says, “Oye mami, que on the pavement, but at those tal?” and winks, my heart misses must-have machines shackled a beat and I feel like I am back in to their palms. No hipster will New York, New York. ! entertainment Fr!day Issue 145 | 28 November 2012 11 Reel Potentials The Kathmandu International Mountain Film Festival has been an important film event for Nepali filmmakers, and has received a lot of love from its annually growing audience. This year, it turns ten.

— Aayush Niroula

athmandu Interna- annual and added a competitive tional Mountain Film dimension. “We never thought Festival, “the only of we would go this far. Every year Kits kind East of Suez”, it’s getting larger, there are more turns a milestone this winter viewers and more gratifica- with a tenth edition on its usual tion for us, the organizers.” December page. It’s proved to be Gratification is important. difficulty has been in funding. a film fest of grand scales, cov- Organizing the festival on Their hard work is not lost on ering “everywhere and any- schedule and taking on the an- filmmakers. Kesang Tseten is where” for selections. And the ticipation it has built over the aware of the trials and tribula- scope of its theme is not lim- years for itself, has not been easy. tions the organizers go through ited to “mountains” as the name “It is difficult,” Thapa reflects, to bring it all together. “I com- might mislead into thinking, the “It might be our own weakness, pletely applaud them, each time films showcased are a diverse but we start from scratch every there is the question of where mix of genres, stories and ge- counts more than anything else ries receive little fan fare in pub- year, sometimes there is a kind to get funds from and yet they ography, from “horses in Ar- when making films. Showcas- licity or wide scale commercial- of a crunch up until the last come through to put up a great gentina to men who skied down ing their work is essential, not ity, “For us, they are a kind of moment.” The most consistent event,” he ends. ! Mount Everest”, as filmmaker only for visibility or encourage- a place to lean on,” he says. and regular participant Kesang ment, but also for them to gauge “This was something we’d Tseten puts it. what audiences like and get a feel always wanted to do,” Basan- Unleashing prospects Moreover, as of now, the for what might work better in ta Thapa, chairperson of the Platforms like KIMFF have also proved to get good films international festival’s name can hardly have commercial terms. This is where KIMFF committee shares. “We recognition. Bhandari relates how the director for Tampere Film festivals come in. For makers like started in 2000 as a biannual non Festival had approached him after watching his feature at KIMFF and any misgivings on its audi- proposed taking it to Finland. Since then it’s gone on to the Al Jazeera ence: every year an exciting Bhandari, they are all the more competitive fare.” The festival International Documentary Film Festival in Qatar, the Toronto Nepali crowd throngs its busy venues, important because documenta- took a turn in 2007 when it went Film Festival in Canada, to Los Angeles, Paris and plans are on floors at one show or another it spills for China. “Outside there is a lot of show and flash, the budget is to the brim of the spacious “KIMFF attracts your average film- obviously big,” Bhandari says. At the same time, Nepali films are not as big a hit as they are in Nepal. “The audience is a little less.” Both Academy hall and runs into its going crowd. There is a sort of mass Bhandari and Tseten feel that screening at home is all the more special. parapets, doors and continues “Films made here should primarily work for the Nepali audience, after outside where onlookers pause, craze about it, especially when it all, you live here and work here,” Tseten remarks. look inside and then saunter comes to Nepali films, it’s like a fare.” along to check out a more ac- commodating space. Most of the times, another show is run- ning simultaneously in the cozy Tourism Board. It’s a posi- tive reminder that there is en- thusiasm for films in Nepal. “KIMFF is big,” Dipendra Bhandari sums up his thoughts regarding the festival. His doc- umentary feature “Journey to Yarsa” was screened to a rous- ing reception at the ninth edi- tion, a year before. It eventu- ally took home the Audience Award and has since toured many festivals around the world. “KIMFF attracts your average film-going crowd. There is a sort of mass craze about it, es- pecially when it comes to Nepali films, it’s like a fare,” Bhandari says, adding that he found the audience very much engaged and empathetic “dropping into silence” at some moments and “ringing with laughter” at others. He completed Yarsa on his personal expense, and some- times was a one-man team on locations, with help from a coop- erating lot of Rukum villagers whose annual journey to collect Yarsagumba he was shooting. His passion is representative of emerging filmmakers whose zeal gourfor the adventurous palatemet Fish Galore Living in a landlocked country, we have limited seafood options—whether it’s the availability of canned and frozen stuff in stores, or what the restaurants offer among their seafood selection. So, a chain of stores that specializes in seafood items is definitely good news! —Akriti Shilpakar and Suprasanna Aryal

eafood is considered a diet that is easily di- Red Snapper Squid gestible and holds high Fresh Red Snapper Whole Mackerel Fillet Steak nutritional values. As Price for 1 Kg: Rs. 1,080 Squid Ring (Premier) S Price for 500 Gram: Rs. 722 residents of a landlocked coun- Fresh Red Snapper Fillet Price for 500 gram: Rs. 563 try, we have not been able to Saba Fish Price for 500 gram: Rs. 551 Fresh Whole Squid explore much in terms of the Price for 500 Gram: Rs. 647 scrumptious seafood delicacies. Price for 1 Kg: Rs. 845 Our supply of seafood goodies are limited to what a few super- markets and shops have in their large freezers, and what se- lected restaurants offer in their menu. Recently, however, we spotted a store claiming to spe- Salmon Fillet cialize in seafood items in three different venues. And upon a Atlantic Salmon Fillet little bit of probing we found Price for 300 gram: Rs. 777 rather good news for seafood Norwegian Salmon Fillet lovers. With the recent estab- Price for 1 Kg: Rs. 2,298 lishment of Bluefin Freshmart, a full-fledged seafood store in Nepal, getting your hands on a variety of fresh seafood from miles away won’t be difficult. With three outlets around town: Bhainsepati, Jhamsikhel Saku AAA and Baluwatar, the brand is even Tuna planning to open two more out- Price for 1 Kg: Rs. 2,405 lets within the valley this year. You can actually execute reci- pes you were impressed with on TLC! And, the fact that there are actually stores specializing Shrimp Lobster in seafood means that the res- Crab taurants around town will have Jumbo, Price for 500 gram: Rs. 828 Fresh Thai Lobster, Price for a lot more to offer to Kathman- X. Large, Price for 500 gram: Rs. 722 Fresh Crab Meat, Price for 250 gram pack: 500 gram: Rs. 1,224 du denizens in terms of seafood Large, Price for 500 gram: Rs. 690 Rs. 1,034 dishes. Medium, Price for 500 gram: Rs. 647 Soft Shell Crab, Price for 200 gram pack: Importing seafood from Rs. 380 Thailand, which is one of the big- food-exporting nations, Bluefin, nutritional value, tastes as well starting a seafood farm in Nepal. let, crab meat, Calamari, squid, gest quality sea- managed and operated under as cooking technique. And with The term seafood refers to crea- Tuna Saku AAA, Cod Fish fillet, Energy Business House Inter- the availability of sauces and tures of the sea but that does Dolly fillet, Mackerel fillet steak national Pvt. Ltd, claims to work pastes, your cooking problems not mean they are only bred in and Soft Shell crab. Apart from directly with certified seafood are all taken care of. sea water. The products that these, you can also try out other farms and fisheries. They have But Bluefin has bigger and are available in our stores come ready-to-cook/eat items like 63 varieties of seafood products Pre-fried Tempura Bite, Fresh available in their stores. The as- The list has an impressive number of Saba in Miso Soup, Shrimp sortment of fish available is seafood items and extends to frozen Cake, Fish Cake, Frozen Fish quite overwhelming and can fruits and ready-to-cook meals. Ball, Frozen Pizza, ARO Fish leave anyone with minimal Fillet, Fish Burger, Grilled Pork knowledge about seafood better plans up their sleeves. Of from farms in Thailand. All we Patties, Grilled Chicken Patties, lost in the store. How- course introducing a ‘Seafood need is the technology they Veg Sushi Set and Mix Sushi ever, the management Freshmart’ is an achievement use and a strong mechanism to set. Fruits like frozen raspberry, here claims that they in itself but they are not going make it possible here in Nepal.” apricot, wild cranberry, straw- have well-trained to stop just yet. Along with the He adds that a sustainable busi- berry and kiwi are also avail- staff members in plans to open more outlets all ness like aquaculture will also able. However, the downside of every store. The over Nepal, they are also plan- be beneficial for the farmers as this chain of stores is that you salespersons ning to start a fish farm in the it promises a stable source of in- might be disappointed if you have adequate country itself, in areas like Chit- come. Bluefin’s long-term goal go in expecting too much. Ex- knowledge wan, which will add more to the however is to break the bubble otic products such as oysters, of the fish- freshness of the products avail- that Nepal lives in. They don’t clams, mussels, and octopus are, es, their able in the future, and hopefully, want to be just importers; their for now, missing from the long a satisfactory amount of fall in aim is to be a seafood exporter list. We suggest you forget your the prices. Having said that, it by 2015, which might sound like demands and just enjoy what is comes to us as a surprise as to making castles in the air right at hand, because there is a lot— how seafood farming is possible now, but Acharya believes it is the list of available items men- in Nepal. To that, CEO of Blue- not unachievable. tioned above are only a select fin Freshmart, Sugam Acharya The list of what is current- few, there is more to find here. explains, “I have met a lot of ly available has an impressive So walk into the store closest to people in the process of start- number of seafood items and your vicinity and explore what ing this venture, yet I almost extends to frozen fruits and they have to offer for your taste always receive simi- ready-to-cook meals. You can in seafood and more. ! lar surprised look choose from frozen seafood like

when I divulge shrimp, Thai lobster, Salmon Contact Bluefin: 5528514, 5526814, my plans of fillet, Red snapper, Budsara fil- 4426429, 5592462 gourmet Fr!day Issue 145 | 28 November 2012 13

food promotion Keeping the Legacy Alive With its sixties’ charms intact, Snowman is about desserts and beverages over long conversations, and a relaxed laid-back evening. —Kshitiz Singh

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Chef’s Recommendation: Black forest cake Cream caramel Brownies Ginger tea Chocolate shake

here’s really no point in har, still reminisces selling out straight to the cash counter— hiding a few undeniable Hash Brownies regularly in the or you can yell out the order if facts about this desti- ‘60s when the café was popu- you’re comfortable doing that— Tnation located in Jhoc- lar mostly amongst foreigners. ask for some sodas, they’ll be chen—the most celebrated Anyone who frequents the café popped and poured right there Hippy nirvana back in the ‘60s, would have heard that appar- on the counter. Or opt for hot also known as Freak Street in ently Jimmy Hendrix ate here beverages that are brought those days. The place is a total and paid for his bill! down from the kitchen. A cup no-no if you’re planning out a The dimly lit smoky ambi- of rich ginger tea is a good op- romantic dinner for two or hav- ance with abstract creations tion for winter days. As the tea ing an outing with your fam- painted on the walls with love is being prepared, place another ily. This is where people catch by select few creative custom- order for an unorthodox slice up with friends over cigarettes ers simply defines the spontane- of black forest cake. You might and tea after a hard day’s work. ity that the beatniks and hippies change your mind on seeing the Regulars shouting out orders, were known for. With some six cake, but what they say about loud conversations, and honks tables with four chairs on the not judging a book by its cover from the street outside creates a ground floor and another four applies here. The unassuming kind of managed chaos that ac- tables on the dingy first floor, cake that makes its way out from tually adds to its charm—a sort you might have to share the ta- Mrs. Manandhar’s bakery every of home-like comfort is what it ble with others as the place gets morning is a moist, and flavor- has to offer. packed on most evenings. It is some treat. The cream cara- Snowman, a family business one of the few remaining relics mel is also a tempting option. run by the Manandhar family of the Freak Street days which The chilled melt-in-the-mouth has been making its presence gives it a place in the Lonely treat that’s served on a plat- felt in the heart of the capi- Planet and still attracts visiting ter is beautifully dressed with tal near the regal Kathmandu tourists. Locals who visited the chocolate syrup. Among other Durbar Square for 47 years café in their younger days con- options are Apple crumble, now. The owner, Ram Manand- tinue to be loyal customers, and Apple pie, Chocolate cake—just you might even spot a few pres- don’t expect the typical pie or ent college-goers. cake; the Snowman version of When it comes down to food, these baked delights have a very it is basically cakes and bever- home-baked flavor, which can ages. A large blackboard acts be refreshingly different from as the menu were a list of las- what you are offered in eateries sis, milkshakes, tea and coffee around town. Above all, the ser- options, and baked sac- vice here is pleasantly prompt, charine treats are your order is placed on your chalked out. Walk table in a jiffy, which is unusual for any Kathmandu eatery. With its unpretentious, mod- est charms, Snowman is an ideal destination to end a hectic day with the sweetness of cakes, good company, good ol’ classics playing in the background, and to top it all off, a rather comfort- able billed amount. !

“A lot of our clientele Classic Club Sandwich, Rs. 395 has remained loyal to us for many years, and as a result the relationship that we have is like that of a family. We hope to continue this relationship in the days to come as well.” JP Road, Thamel, 4269949 — Raju Manandhar, Owner Boudha Stupa, 4485668

highspiritsfor the love of drinking Brave New Tipple — Dominik von Bohlen

magine an alcoholic drink when it is produced as a result stated his view in a medical Why go to all this completely free of any ill of alcohol intake it makes us journal that negative effects of trouble to find an al- effects. A universal panacea feel happy and relaxed. Unfor- alcohol could be “engineered out cohol alternative you Ithat induces feelings of well tunately alcohol also acts on a of a molecule”. might ask. We already being, relaxation and happiness whole host of other receptors Partial agonists have been have alcohol; millions, yet leaves not the slightest trace which are responsible for caus- synthesized before. Their use as maybe billions, of peo- of a hangover. In other words, ing nausea, loss of coordina- an alternative to alcohol could ple across the globe imagine an alcohol alternative tion, anaesthesia and depen- hold enormous potential advan- drink it and it causes that isn’t in the slightest bit poi- dency. Due to much research in tages for the user – they would an untold amount of sonous for human beings, how- the field over the last decade, it be safer and healthier in every damage both to indi- ever much of it you drank. A viduals and to society. fanciful notion, you might think, “The kinds of new products that Wouldn’t the time, en- best confined to the realms of might be engineered as a safer ergy and money spent the imagination alongside the on researching partial agonists by the characters in Huxley’s magic potions of fairytales and alternative to alcohol remind me be better spent on a more noble Brave New World.” Scientists are the alchemists’ elixir of life. But of ‘soma’, used by the characters in medical cause, like finding a great at working out which mol- despite sounding far too good to Huxley’s Brave New World.” cure for cancer or Aids? But it is ecules bind on to which receptors contain even a dram of truth, precisely because alcohol is such – that’s the sort of thing, after it may only be a matter of time now appears quite feasible that respect. Nutt even believes that a ubiquitous and harmful drug, all, that they’re paid to do. What until such drinks become a reali- a chemical variant of alcohol, it may be possible to develop argues Professor Nutt, that many of them are less good at is ty, if leading experts in the field called a partial agonist, which partial agonists which are selec- the scientific community has a philosophising. If you could get of psychopharmacology are to acts only on GABA receptors, tive about the type of GABA moral obligation to find a safer, drunk during your lunch break be believed. and so reproduces only the receptor they bind to, thereby healthier alternative. Nutt is not and then quickly down a glass of To understand how such a positive effects of alcohol, could eliminating the propensity for alone in thinking this. antagonist before heading back to miracle drink could come about soon be synthesized. memory loss and aggressive be- Another professor, Miles the office, wouldn’t that diminish it first helps to understand what The amusingly named Pro- haviour. The perfect tipple could Cox of the University of Wales the pleasure of drinking in the happens when we drink alcohol. fessor Nutt, a psychopharma- be molecularly engineered. Fur- writes, “One’s imagination can first place? Without hangovers to In simplified terms alcohol acts cologist and one time advisor thermore, the effects of partial run wild with the types of bev- contend with, wouldn’t many of on receptors in the brain which to the UK government on drug agonists can be reversed almost erages that could be developed us drink every day and night not release a chemical called GABA legislation policy (controversial- immediately by administering in the future. The kinds of new just on weekends, in order to es- (gamma aminobutyric acid). ly sacked for saying that alcohol an antagonist which could also products that might be engi- cape the mundanity of our lives? GABA is produced naturally by was more harmful to humans come in the form of a drinkable neered as a safer alternative to al- I wonder if professor Cox has ac- the brain to combat anxiety, but than the illegal drug Ecstasy) antidote. cohol remind me of ‘soma’, used tually read Brave New World? !