Purple for a Cause Gear up for the ‘Purple’ Cause! Purple Cakes, Kid’S Corner Activities, Live Jazz and Exciting Prizes

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3 4 6 10 13 14 page 3 feature eVents Hallofframe entertainment gourmet Filming in foreign countries Binod Bhattrai’s take on the Join Sing-ma Food Court Personalities from all walks of As Deborah Merola directs The lively cast and crew seems to be the latest trend rising labor union as it celebrates its tenth life turn into poets. Here’s a “To Kill a Mocking Bird”, she of Highway join us for an in Kollywood. We talk about protests features as our anniversary with discounts sneak peek into the event on faces and recalls experiences episode of food tasting at this drift in One Question. Issues That Matter, this week. and gifts for its customers. Valentine’s Day. on issues of class and race. Picasso.

National Lifestyle Weekly Every Sunday Purple for a Cause Gear up for the ‘purple’ cause! Purple cakes, kid’s corner activities, live jazz and exciting prizes. Join the Purple Cake Day celebrations, and do your bit for the country’s children.

— Nimma Adhikari Model: Shivatmicaa Shrestha, Prop Courtesy: Bakers Courtesy: Prop Shivatmicaa Shrestha, Model: 2 Issue 107 | 29 February 2012 Fr!day cover Purple for a Cause

urple Cake Day is a day Purple Cake Day was es- Emily created Purple Cake dren from a Haiti tent camp, All funds raised in Nepal stay of fun, education and ac- tablished in response to the Day with the vision that every and reached out to children in in Nepal helping disadvantaged tion. This annual global devastation in Haiti following child receives quality education, Christchurch, New Zealand af- children in rural areas access Pevent focussed on the the January 2010 earthquake. as all children deserve the op- fected by the devastating Febru- better educational opportuni- celebration of children, is in A woman from New Zealand, portunity to explore their po- ary 2011 earthquake. ties. This will include the estab- Nepal this year! The event is Emily Sanson-Rejouis, lost her tential. Making Haiti its first Anybody can be involved in lishment of child-friendly early about encouraging our children husband and two of her three ‘country in profile’, Purple Cake this celebration that is meant childhood centres, libraries, and to think about their role in the young daughters in the disaster. Day was celebrated in 2011 by to bring happiness to children provision of scholarships. global community – to become Emily’s daughter, Zenzie, had schools and communities in the world over. This celebration With funds raised from Pur- aware of children with less edu- asked for not one but two purple New Zealand and around the also helps unite children glob- ple Cake Day, in-country event cational opportunities, and to cakes for her fourth birthday. world. So far Purple Cake Day ally for a good cause. Any ideas organisers First Steps Nepal demonstrate support by taking The earthquake struck a week has raised awareness and funds presented by anybody to help plan to establish a number of action. before she turned four. to support schooling for chil- raise awareness and raise funds early childhood and school are appreciated. One could have support projects in rural Sind- a purple Holi, a purple cake sale hupalchok district, where they or organize a fundraiser or envi- currently run 11 early child- ronmental cleanup in the neigh- hood centres and a class 1 sup- borhood, suggest the members port project. First Steps Nepal of the foundation. is registered with the Social The focus for Purple Cake Welfare Council, and is the Day, 1 March 2012, is Nepal. implementing partner of New Organisers of Purple Cake Day Zealand based charity, First celebrations here, First Steps Steps Himalaya. Nepal, have organised a number First Steps Nepal’s Early of exciting events in and around Childhood Development pro- 1 March. The Purple themed, grams aim to improve young Mad Hatter’s Tea Party on Fri- children’s capacity to develop day, 2 March, at Meconopsis and learn through a stimulating Boutique Hotel, Pulchowk is and child-friendly environment. a fun filled event for everyone. This is an essential step towards Come wearing purple and join primary school completion. First the fun! There will be purple Steps Nepal has developed a suc- cakes, yummy food and even a cessful low cost model which is new purple drink! Children will now being rolled out across Sind- enjoy the kid’s corner activities hupalchok district. “Schools sim- and there will be live jazz, stalls ply agree to give us a classroom as well as spot prizes for the and a facilitator. We renovate and best purple outfits. There is also fit out the classroom with suit- the chance to win two nights at able learning resources, train and Temple Tree Resort and Spa support the teacher with regular in Pokhara, a night at the Last monitoring visits. We have a list Resort, meals out, language of schools and communities wait- courses and other great prizes ing for our projects. We aim to in a raffle. Raffle tickets will be achieve a major improvement in available prior to the event at the quality of rural education,” the Meconopsis Boutique Hotel, explained Durga Aran, Director Chez Caroline and at the event of First Steps Nepal. itself. Together for a noble cause, The Kids 4 Kids Mega Art let’s all spread the word of the Competition is another event purple dream. Let’s turn the for children to look forward world purple this March ! to. Sponsored by Mega Bank, Children all over Nepal are encouraged to enter Meconopsis and Chez Caroline, the Kids 4 Kids Mega Art Competition. There this competition encourages are three age groups: 5 years and under, 6 -10 and 11-15 years old. Entries must be of one of children from all over Nepal three themes: Mountains, purple cakes or celebrat- to compete for exciting prizes. ing children. Children must submit their own work with name, age, school, address and contact phone Nine lucky winners will receive number on the back. Art can use any medium and Mega Bank savings accounts be on paper no bigger than A3 size. Entries should be delivered to Meconopsis no later than 26th Feb- with Rs. 10,000! Finalists will ruary. have their work on display at For more information about Purple Cake Day and First Steps Nepal: Contact 9849113388 the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party at Visit www.firststepshimalaya.org and www. Meconopsis. purplecakeday.org page3 one question make your statement Filming in foreign locations – what lies at the root of this new drift in the Nepali film industry? With new releases that boast of shoots in foreign locations, it seems this is a fast growing trend in our film industry. What lies at the root of this inclination? Is it a delayed imitation of our neighboring film industry, or are the movies catering to the imagination of the Nepali youth who aspire to go abroad? We ask some personalities involved in the movie “Miss U” that has been filmed in Malaysia, and an experience actor from the film fraternity.

— Mannat Shrestha In our circumstances, the demand of the whole movie was to be shot in Malaysia. Yes, it can be said that we are imitating Bollywood, but why only Bollywood? Everywhere in the world, movie makers experiment with locations when required. It holds a commercial value. Also when we shoot at different places we get a good response from the audience. It gives them a glimpse of life in other countries and what it entails, so it is informative to an extent as well.

Suresh Darpan Pokharel is the Founder of Darpan Creation Pvt. Ltd. The film “Nishana” was his directorial debut. The director/writer has spent more than a decade in the entertainment industry. He was also honored with the secretarial position in Nepalese Directors’ Association. Pokharel is the director of “Miss U”.

I think if it is related to the film’s subject then I would not call it imitation. However If I need to talk in the context of Miss You, in some of the movies when scenes It depends; it’s all about the script and what then the storyline is based on students from international locations pop out of it demands. I do not think that this trend is living abroad. However, generally when nowhere, it creates an unrealistic image for about imitating any film industry; in fact we are we shoot in foreign location it saves the the viewers. So, I think shoots in foreign exploring and experimenting – something that audience from monotonous scenes. A locations should be in the context of the the Nepali film industry needs at this point. Like different location gives a different feeling; story’s demand; else it gives a mixed signal any other film industry, the Nepali film industry is overall a fresh new look that does capture to the audience and confuses them instead growing, and new trends are a sign of growth. their imagination. of adding value to the movie.

Namrata Shrestha is considered to be one of the fast rising Dillip Rayamajhi, is one of the established actors Mithila Sharma is the dancing diva of Nepal. She started stars with immense potential. She is well known for her role in the Nepali movie industry, who has also moved to her career when she was nine years old. A graduate in in the romantic film “Sano Sansar” released in 2008, and her film production. He started his career by playing the home science and dance, Sharma has starred in more appearances in music videos. Before she embarked on her protagonist in the movie “Bhanubhakta”, and “Darpan than a hundred films, more than a dozen serials, has done acting career, she was involved in theater acts and modeling. She Chaya” was a milestone in his career. Rayamajhi has also musical dramas, and has mesmerized many through her is still seen exploring her theater skills in various productions produced two movies “Hami Saathi Bhai” and “Shahid”. dance in numerous stage shows. Her work in films like along with her roles in commercial films. She plays one of the “Miss U” is also one of his productions, and he plays one “Mukundo”, “Sukha Dukha”, “Didi”, “Muna Madan”, “Basai”, lead roles in “Miss U”. of the lead roles as well. and “Aafno Manchhe” are still well received. feaissues that matter ture

Binod Bhattarai is a journalist who runs The Writing Workshop ([email protected]). Bad Business – and not economics – to tell them what to pay workers, what benefits to give, when to produce and when not to. Som Lal Subedi, the labor secretary, said that the workers demands were “genuine” and the company was “irre- sponsible” because it did not negotiate. (A report said there had been 20 rounds of nego- tiations) Well, worker demands can be genuine but what is the benchmark to determine what is genuine and what is not? A housing allowance can be genuine, but the amount demanded by the unions – perhaps – not. Another term used by a MP was “legitimate demand” of workers, which again is an oxymoron because needs can be legitimate, of course upon adjudication by a court of law, but not all demands, which are essentially insistent and preemptory re- ne of Nepal’s most suc- A labor dispute, inability of The All Nepal Trade Union fied Marxist-Leninist party quests. The MP added that the cessful private ventures the government to step-in to as- Federation (Revolutionary) – a was also said to be support- government should subsidize was almost forced to a sist in finding a resolution, and union affiliated with the Unit- ive of the closure. According companies to provide better sal- lockout within a month the now well-known militancy ed Communist Party of Ne- to newspapers, the company aries to workers – an economic O model which perhaps only he into the year that the govern- of labor unions were reasons that pal (Maoist) – had padlocked resumed operation on 16 Feb- ment has dedicated to attracting forced Unilever Nepal to stop the factory on 4 February. ruary after the prime minister understands, particularly in the foreign investment. production for about two weeks. The union close to the Uni- intervened. Nothing was said context of the perennially cash- on what the intervention was strapped Government of Nepal. and why it was made after two Of course no one other than weeks and not earlier. Also is it business talks about revisiting the prime minister who should the labor laws to try to clarify intervene every time there is the genuine needs of work- a closure or should it be the ers and set limits on demands, domain of a more predictable which is reason why every time governance system? there is a collective bargaining The message the closure effort it invariably ends up in has sent to potential investors lockups and even violence. early in the Investment Year is Not long ago Surya Gar- simple: Stay away! Simply, it is ments – another successful joint like saying ‘come to invest in venture and also the best pay- Nepal but because we cannot master – shut down its manufac- assure you straightforward turing unit in Biratnagar. It was Of course no one other than business talks about revisiting the labor laws to try to clarify the genuine needs of workers and set limits on demands, which is reason why every time there is a collective bargaining effort it invariably ends up in lockups and even violence.

rules to help you to get on also a dispute that we were told with business, we will have the began with genuine demands prime minister on a stand-by that soon escalated into vio- to help with negotiating pro- lence against company staff in duction resumption every time the name of efforts to convince the unions force a shutdown.’ the management to comply. I don’t know if foreign in- Needless to say, those who lost vestors like it this way. But their jobs are now unemployed, given the little or no new ma- not what the union leaders had jor investment in the country wanted – perhaps. ! after 2006, one can say with certainty the Nepali investors don’t. And in a country Read where local investors are not forthcoming, no amount of speeches and brochures can encourage foreigners to put their money and wait for the Every Thursday unions (and their party bosses)

TOP 3 With events to the left and right, Fr!day makes it a little bit easier for eget morevents out of your weekends you to choose events to check out this week and the next. Here are our top three picks: 1. Tibetan Losar Eve Celebration Celebrate the Tibetan New Year’s Eve, at probably one of the most exclusive party hangouts in the city, Club Platinum along with famous DJs and drinks. 2. 2012 – The leap year what’s on Celebrate the 29th of February with friends and family at the leap year party, 2012. Enjoy and welcome the day that you witness only every four years with music and good company. things to do 3. Activism Paathsala III If you’re looking for something to boost up your confidence and give sun . mon . tue . wed . thu . fri . sat you strength to achieve what you wish for, then don’t miss the Activism Paathsala III, a residential activism workshop. 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 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.

Qs The Knu Truth with Sejal Vora N. M.D. (Doctor in Natural Medicine) Date: 25 February (Saturday); Time: 3 pm to 5 pm (Followed by a 45 min of one on one discussion); Venue: Pranamaya Yoga premises, opposite Moksh, Jhamsikhel 3 Pranamaya Yoga is organizing a Embrace the Truth two-hour long group session Pranamaya Yoga has been providing various workshops related to healing of body and mind by the use on the truths about health, of Yoga and breathing exercises. The Knu Truth seminar hopes to provide clarity on issues of health both disease, and medicine, and most importantly on the matters of physical and mental. Fr!day sits down with Dr. Sejal Vora, to know more about what the seminar has to offer. how to take charge of one’s well being; aiming to empower people with the Knu truth. Please shed some light on the ‘Knu Truth Seminar’. Knu truth seminar will help Continuous chemical intervention in a body’s natural processes has led to a host of complications and participants to learn about tools ailments. Modern medicine looks to suppress symptoms and therefore works against the balancing they might need to become forces of nature. Knu truth is a power packed two-hour talk on the art of listening to your body and healthier, both mentally and understanding the truest path to good health. physically. What kind of activities will the participants be taken through, apart from the two-hour talk The seminar will also feature a session? session with Dr. Sejal Vora, who The event is basically a seminar. There will be speakers talking on issues related to health, using visual will be talking on issues related presentations or even by sharing their own experiences. The seminar will be also an interactive one as the two-hour talk session is to be followed by a laughing yoga practice, and also the power yoga demonstration. to Naturotherapy, explaining and After the seminar is through we want participants to know a bit more about how their body works and sharing her own experiences of how diseases are caused by nothing but simply not listening to your body. how she lost over 30 kilos over a three-year period, and how she What will the participants learn from the seminar? now cures people with clinical All in all the participants will be learning various enlightening aspects and facts about health, disease, and illness by helping them understand their bodies and educating them enough truth, probably some that they don’t even know. The seminar will also feature talks on western medicine and how we tend to abuse medications. Basically after the seminar is over, each participant will learn tricks to be their own doctors. So join the Knu Truth seminar which promises to on how to become their own doctors and take charge of their health with simple but efficient measures. divulge the key to menatl and physical health. (Nikhil Ghimire) (Nikhil Ghimire)

MUSIC AND PARTIES Horny Monks, Psychic Tower, Time: 6 pm onwards 2012 – The leap year like to dress up the party can definitely Scattered Glass, Stonners Venue: Club Platinum, Durbar Date: 29 February (Wednesday) be something to look forward to. The Sounds of the Season with Amps, and Darkness Marg, 9841842022 Time: 5:30 pm onwards unofficial dress code for the party Date: 18 February (Saturday) Incarnated. The event is also Venue: 8 Degrees, Jhamsikhel, will be red for all the lovely ladies Celebrate the Tibetan Losar Eve Time: 1 pm onwards scheduled to be followed by a 4420564 and black and white suits for men. Venue: Neon Pub, Thamel fashion show. DJ Sync will also this February, with DJs like DJ WFS is scheduled to host another be grooving some of his best Sishir and DJ Sundyp spinning your This 29 February, We Fear Silence promotional event before 13 April Sounds of the Season, is a musical tracks for the audience as the favorite tracks, so you can dance is organizing a Salsa Dance party which is of course also the Nepali event that includes bands playing night proceeds. till you drop. Being organized by followed by a live Jazz performance New Year. different genres of music, beautiful Icon Events and Entertainment in celebration of the leap year, 2012. setup and exciting and colorful Ticket Cost: To be announced the event will also feature The party will feature the best of lightings. The event is literally set complimentary drinks for the cocktails and an exciting Red Carpet MISCELLANEOUS to cover up all the sounds of the Tibetan Losar Eve attendees. Celebration entrance where the paparazzi will be Activism Paathsala III season. The event will feature clicking away at you as if everyone was Date: 24 February (Friday) Ticket Cost: Rs. 600 (Including Opening Date: 24 February (Friday) some bands like Double Trouble, a celebrity. So, for all the people who complimentary drink) Closing Date: 25 February (Saturday) events Fr!day Issue 107 | 29 February 2012 7

Time: 6 am onwards Venue: Dhulikhel Resort, Dhulikhel, Sing-ma Celebrates 10th Anniversary 9841677934 Starting Date: 20 February (Monday) Closing Date: 29 February (Wednesday) worth a watch After the huge success of Activism Venue: Sing-ma Food Court, Jhamsikhel Paathsala Batch I and II which was 5009092 HBO effects of his prescription sleeping organized by IF3A (Innovation for Sing-ma food court will be celebrating its 10th anniversary since the opening, After the Sunset pills or actual reality, he begins to Awareness, Action and Activism), look deeper into the source of WIN – We Inspire Nepal are all through the last ten days of February. Jason Ngan, the part owner of the 23 February (Thursday) organizing the third installment restaurant, has been residing in Nepal for about 14 years now. During his stay, 9:15 pm onwards the images in the mirrors. When promising to be more challenging, for over a decade Ngan along with his partners wanted to fulfill their vision of employees of the store turn up entertaining and better than before. opening a warm and inviting restaurant to provide a South-East Asian dining dead and Max is a suspect in the The one night, two days residential experience, that vision now stands as the Sing-ma Food Court. “We have murders, he must expose the girl’s workshop will have participants been looked after and supported by our customers in the past, and now that connection to a scandal within introduced to unexpected we’ve crossed the ten years mark, I believe it’s payback time,” said Ngan. The the department store’s walls in restaurant will be serving the regular menu, with a 10 percent discount and a challenges, missions and even order to prove his innocence and roadside activities. The workshop small gift, as a token of love to the customers visiting the restaurant in this 10 day period. Also, for every customer making a payment of above a thousand put a stop to the spirits in the promises to internalize various mirrors. disciplines through mental, physical rupees, will receive a special gift from the restaurant. “For these 10 years of and spiritual practices. serving our customers, we’ve come to understand that our core value lies in our people,” he said. “It doesn’t only mean our valued customers, but also TLC Registration Fees: Rs. 2000 (all costs the people behind the smooth functioning of our restaurant, our staff.” The Nigella’s Christmas Kitchen: included) restaurant recognized three of their current staff who had been with them That Old Chestnut for the entire 10 years period, a week back, by gifting watches as a token Placid Nuances: an Art of appreciation. The owners, now that they have a stable business, do not 25 February (Saturday) Exhibition want to think solely about business, but also want to do something socially, 7:45 pm onwards Starting Date: 24 February (Friday) helping disadvantaged people either to get jobs at the restaurant, or providing Closing Date: 16 March (Friday) Baking, Mulling, Larder filling, and development trainings to the current staff. Ngan also humbly asks his customers fun food to hang on the tree Venue: Park Gallery, Pulchowk, to support him for this noble cause. Max and Lola are jewel thieves 5522307 who are in the business for the are at the heart of this program. money as well as the excitement. Perhaps the new millennium is the Park gallery is organizing yet Artudio is presenting yet another another art exhibition for all the The Prakriti Project FBI Agent Stanley Lloyd has right moment to revive a retro photography workshop targeting job Closing Date: 26 February (Sunday) art enthusiasts in the city. The been on their tail for many classic Gravadlax. Don’t miss this holders, students, housewives and also Time: 5:30 pm onwards exhibition will feature paintings years but has not succeeded episode of Nigella’s Kitchen and corporate people. The participants will Venue: Siddhartha Art Gallery, Baber by Neera Joshi Pradhan. From in nailing them. Max and Lola learn fun and exciting ways to learn amazing tricks to create better Mahal Revisited, Baber Mahal water colors to Acrylic paintings, prepare Christmassy delights. images from well-experienced and Contact: 4218048 retire to an idyllic island in The the exhibition will showcase professional photographers and even Bahamas. They lead a great life some of the artist’s best new and artists. If participants do not own a The hub for contemporary arts and with their ill-gotten gains. Stanley Discovery contemporary art works. Digital SLR Camera, at least a Digital painting, Kathmandu Contemporary Arts is not convinced that the two Wild Events: The Wildebeest Moksh Saturday Picnic compact camera is compulsory. From Centre is hosting an art and sculpture of them have retired, especially Migration exhibition. The exhibition will feature Date: 25 February (Saturday) beginners and interested enthusiasts to when a cruise ship containing a sculptures and paintings from artists 24 February (Friday) Venue: Moksh Restaurant & Bar, even job holders, anyone with a passion Rabindra Shakya and Maureen Drdak. Set precious diamond travels in the 6:15 pm onwards Jhamsikhel for photography can participate in to be inaugurated by Ms. Patricia Mahoney, direction of the island. 5528362 the four Saturdays workshop. The workshop is set to be held only on Deputy Chief of Mission, Embassy of the Come celebrate your Saturdays at Saturdays as it will be an off day for Untied States of America, the exhibition Star Movies Moksh Restaurant & Bar, and enjoy everyone participating. is a display of external visions depicted Mirrors 2 a variety of snacks and sumptuous through contemporary forms. 24 February (Friday) delights at the numerous food stalls, Registration Fees: Rs. 3000 Entry: Free 7:20 pm onwards live music from different popular bands and artists, B-boying, and more. The restaurant will also be hosting organic markets on specific Events Index Witness how Jake reveals the days and will be setting up stalls for traumas of the largest movement handicraft showcase and purchase. Thursday Sunday Sing-ma Celebrates 10th Anniversary Sing-ma Celebrates 10th Anniversary of wildlife on earth. Photojournalism Workshop (Miscellaneous) (Miscellaneous) Starting Date: 25 February The Prakriti Project (Miscellaneous) The Prakriti Project (Miscellaneous) It’s a game of chance as they face (Saturday) Placid Nuances: an Art Exhibition (Miscellaneous) ruthless predators and merciless Friday river crossings, to get to an area Closing Date: 16 March (Friday) Activism Paathsala III (Music and Parties) Monday Time: 11 am onwards Placid Nuances: an Art Exhibition Placid Nuances: an Art Exhibition (Miscellaneous) where they can graze – greener Venue: Sattya Space, Jawalakhel (Music and Parties) Sing-ma Celebrates 10th Anniversary pastures. Sing-ma Celebrates 10th Anniversary (Miscellaneous) Sattya Space is organizing a (Miscellaneous) National Geographic Photojournalism Workshop for The Prakriti Project (Miscellaneous) Tuesday all the interested enthusiasts Tibetan Losar Eve Celebration Placid Nuances: an Art Exhibition (Miscellaneous) Triumph of Life: The Eternal looking for a career in photography. (Music and Parties) Sing-ma Celebrates 10th Anniversary Arms Race (Miscellaneous) The workshop will be lead by 26 February (Sunday) different personals from the Saturday Wednesday 8:15 onwards related field along with Nepalese Activism Paathsala III (Miscellaneous) Placid Nuances: an Art Exhibition (Miscellaneous) When Max, a recovering addict Moksh Saturday Picnic (Miscellaneous) Sing-ma Celebrates 10th Anniversary takes a job as a night time Giant Snakes, reaching more than Photojournalist Bijay Gajmer. Photography Workshop XIII (Miscellaneous) (Miscellaneous) security guard job at his father’s 30 feet long. What are the limits of Photography Workshop XIII Photojournalism Workshop (Miscellaneous) 2012 – The leap year (Music and Parties) Placid Nuances: an Art Exhibition department store, he begins to these enormous serpents? How Starting Date: 25 February (Miscellaneous) Thursday (Saturday) see visions of a young woman big can they grow, constrict and Sing-ma Celebrates 10th Anniversary Placid Nuances: an Art Exhibition (Miscellaneous) in the store’s mirrors. Unsure consume? To find out, don’t miss Closing Date: 17 March (Saturday) (Miscellaneous) Sing-ma Celebrates 10th Anniversary Time: 1 pm onwards The Prakriti Project (Miscellaneous) (Miscellaneous) whether his visions are side this episode of Triumph of Life. Venue: Artudio, Lazimpat, 4002037, 9841408425 All Women Scooty Rally eget morevents out of your weekends Date: 8 March (Thursday) Time: 8 am onwards Venue: Kathmandu Durbar Square to Bhaktapur Durbar Square, 9851043398 Kgarira.com is organizing the first ever all women scooter rally on the occasion of International Women’s Day, 8 March. The event will feature different activities in order to create awareness on issues related to women. Join them to celebrate womanhood with a difference. The starting point will be Kathmandu Durbar Square, passing through various hot spots the rally mark your will finally end at Bhaktapur Durbar Square. There will be various checkpoints calendar where the participants will be provided with refreshments. The rally will be followed by a formal program and a musical act at the start and the end events in the next few weeks points. With the band Abhaya and the Steam Injuns, the event will feature talks from leading women entrepreneurs and celebrities as well. Registration fees: Rs. 250/- (including T-shirt and Refreshments)

Parikrama Live in Chez Caroline and at the event Children for Children Concert itself. Date: 21 April (Saturday); Venue: Nepal Army Officer Club, Bhadrakali; 9851008362 Date: 24 March (Saturday) Splash Fest 2012 Time: 1 pm onwards Date: 8 March (Thursday) Venue: Jawalakhel Football Time: 10 am onwards ‘The country prospers when the children of the nation are educated’ – Ground, Jawalakhel, 9801032067 with this belief, Sugar Cubes Advertising and Entertainment Pvt. Ltd. in Venue: International Club, Sanepa association with the Jump Kids Club are organizing a ramp show under After the successful Baneshwor 9841269716 the theme, ‘Kids on ramp, a Walk for a cause’, along with support from the Street Fest, Frequency Events are Nileema’s Fashion Store and CG Entertainment. organizing an informative musical event featuring the well known The ramp show will be a social event aimed at creating awareness, and rock band from India Parikrama. motivating individuals and corporate society to do their bit for children – The event will feature many artists our future. The event also aims to raise funds for the Children for Children like Nepal’s famous rock band trust, which carries a single handed purpose, to educate the children of Cobweb, Abhaya and the Steam Injuns, X-Mantra, Mt. 8848 and rural Nepal. The event can also be a great chance for kids to harness and also the hip-hop group Nepsydaz. freely express their talent, by participating in the main event on 21 April. Then all the excitement is set to The children will be trained at the Jumps Kids Club, for nine days (11-19 be followed by a DJ session along Enjoy and rejuvenate yourselves April), from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. (Group A), and 4 p.m. 6 p.m. (Group B) for the with B-boying to top up the event. and drink, stalls, live jazz, kid’s with the grand celebration of various acts that they will be performing. Last date for the form submission From mouth watering food stalls, corner and spot prizes for best Holi, at the Splash Fest 2012. interesting games the event will be is 31 March, Saturday. (Nikhil Ghimire) purple outfits. There is also the Being organized by ASpadez one of its kind with something for chance to win two nights at Temple Entertainment, the event is looking everyone. The tickets are soon to Tree Resort and Spa in Pokhara, a to provide a refreshing break to be available at famous restaurants night at the Last Resort, meals out, all the working professionals from and retail shops. language courses and other great their busy working hours. The prizes in a raffle. Raffle tickets will Ticket Cost: To be announced event will also feature the game of be available prior to the event at ‘Water Football’ as one of the main Qs Nepal Naccha the Meconopsis Boutique Hotel, attractions. Date: 13 April (Friday) with Rohit Shakya Director, Sugar Cubes Advertising & Entertainment Time: 4 pm onwards Venue: Club Paradiso, Lakeside, 3 Pokhara Walking Tall In celebration of Nepalese New Year 2069, Kandel Consultant (Melbourne, Australia) is organizing ‘Children for Children Trust’ has a single purpose, to educate the a global event featuring red carpet, unprivileged children of rural Nepal. They believe that the country photo shoots, lots of dancing, prospers when the children have access to education. Kids on Ramp and good house and club music. is the opening event to raise funds for the trust, there are many more With various attractions from the to come. Fr!day sits down with Rohit Shakya, Director at Sugar Cubes, likes of world class DJs, amazing decorations and even more to know more about what the event has to offer. amazing sound system, the party will definitely welcome 2069 in As the event carries the title, ‘Kids on Ramp, a Walk for a Cause,’ style. what skills and lessons will the children have learned after the Ticket Cost: To be announced. event is through? This program is basically a social event. The main objective of this event is to boost the confidence of the participants to face the public. Along MISCELLANEOUS with that they will also learn to work in a group, freely communicate their talent, develop the skills of coordination etc. It takes time, practice and Purple themed Mad many experiences to be a winner, so it’s just a step towards their bright Hatter’s Tea Party future. Date: 2 March (Thursday) Time: 3 pm onwards What are some of the activities that the event will feature? Venue: Meconopsis Boutique There will be three different sequences. First, the traditional wear round, Hotel, Pulchowk (opposite Sajha then the casual walk round, and finally the designer’s choice round. The Petrol Pump), 9849113388 event will also feature songs by popular Nepali singers and group dances of different schools. To make the kids feel special, we also have a sequence An exhibition of the winners of where they will get to walk with the celebrities on the ramp. the Kids 4 Kids art competition will also be held at the venue. ‘Kids Who can participate, how do they go by the registration process? helping kids all over the world, We will be selecting the kids on first come first serve basis. The only that’s what it’s all about’, that’s a line criteria we have in the selection is age. The applicant has to be between from the theme song for Purple the ages of 7 to 11. The registration forms can be collected from the Cake Day, an event focused on the Jumps Kids Club which is located at Baluwatar Chwok, we hope that a lot celebration of children. It’s a day of of parents would understand the valuable skills their kids will learn from fun and action for kids, encouraging this unique opportunity, so we are expecting a good show-up. Interested them to think about their role in parents can contact us on 4410261. (Nikhil Ghimire) the global community – also to become aware of children with less educational opportunity and MUSIC AND PARTIES set to perform at the Nepfest IV, this to demonstrate support by taking September. For all those who missed action. People of all ages can join Nepfest March out on the Nepfest Reloaded, Nepfest the event and have fun while Date: 17 March (Saturday) in association with KTM Rocks presents working for a noble cause. The Time: 1 pm onwards Nepfest March with a big surprise for Purple Cake Day country in profile Venue: Fun Park, Bhrikuti Mandap all the metal heads in the venue. The for 2012 is Nepal. 5541322 event will feature some of the metal bands in the city like Antim Grahan, So, wear something purple and Nepfest is coming up with yet another Kalodin, White, Garudh, The Exorcist, come down to Meconopsis big event as one of the promotional Disintegrated, and Fractals. Boutique Hotel in Pulchowk for gig for the legendary polish death a purple themed Mad Hatter’s metal juggernaut ‘Decpitated’ who are Ticket Cost: Rs. 150 Tea Party. Purple cakes, food events Fr!day Issue 107 | 29 February 2012 9

On the occasion of Valentine’s Day, the week that was XclusiveZ Entertainment Pvt. Ltd. organized an event at the Bagaicha Restro and Bar in Jawalakhel. The event featured various performers like Yama Buddha, Price Tag, and a event reviews of Sufi performance as well. There was also a special DJ session for the dance party that was conducted the past week by DJ Poison, DJ Anish and DJ competition was held in the month Era. The special valentine’s event of December,2011, where amongst featured various fun and games seven teams from various management sessions that included a love letter colleges had participated.The writing competition, paper dance, contestants were judged on the basis of and various lucky coupon draws. the number of ‘likes’ on their video on The winners were given various were awarded the Hamdard Award by Springwood’s facebook page. prizes that included a two tickets Hamdard Awards Rastakabi Madhav Prasad Ghimire. Springwood Group B from Kantipur for a mountain flight, free lunch and Personalities City College was declared the dinner coupons for the restaurant: The senior director of the company, Chopsticks (for three winning Yukta Bajracharya Hamad Yahamad, shared at the winner of the competition with 906 votes,whereas Springwood Group C couples), free QFX cinema tickets Kathmandu, 11 February ceremony that the Hamdard Pvt. Ltd. to five couples, three gift coupons was a charity organization established from the same college was declared runner-up with 902 votes.Susan Nepal, for couples from Heritage Spa, and in India which has been producing and several gift items from Archie’s selling quality herbal products, the profit Manash Pokhrel and Binuna Chaudhary comprised ‘Group B’, while ‘Group gallery. Several titles such as ‘The from which has been solely directed Most Glamorous Couples’, ‘Cute towards charity. C’ comprised Binayak Pandey, Bimal Shrestha and Manohar Chakradhar Couples’ and ‘Lucky Couples’ were The Brand Manger at Surya Nepal also awarded with prizes. ‘The Pvt. Ltd. distributed the prizes to the event was quite successful as we Winners Declared winners. witnessed a turnover of almost Nikhil Ghimire three hundred people along with Kathmandu, 13 Febuary 27 registered couples during the Valentine’s event,’ says Kolin B. Rana, who is The Indian Ambassador Twenty20 The 7th Hamdard Award this year, The winner of the Springwood inter- one of the founders of XclusiveZ Cup kicked off at the TU honored three people who have college ad competition organized Celebrations at Entertainment. International Cricket Stadium, last contributed to various fields in Nepal. by Kathmandu University School Sunday, 19 February. According Social worker Anuradha Koirala, Dr. of Managementteam was declared Bagaicha to the organizers, the tournament Bhola Nath Rijal and SP Ramesh Prasad at a prize giving ceremony held at Girish Subedi Extended could really boost Nepali cricket Kharel were the three personas who KAF premises on 13 February. The Lalitpur, 14 February and can also act as a selection Valentine’s Fun criterion for the National team that Nikhil Ghimire is set to play for the Asian Cricket Kathmandu,15 February Council T20 trophy in Dubai this March. With a hint of spring in the Tehzeeb 50 Cent Bar & Grill was host weather – an ideal cricket day out, to a program on love and the various the opening ceremony was one of a ways of expressing it from the heart, kind as the Deputy Chief of Mission last Wednesday, the day after Valentine’s from India, Jaideep Mazumdar picked Day. The event was an exciting up the bat, and the Honorable opportunity for couples and the party Minister for Youth and Sports attendees alike as the event featured Kamala Roka bowled the first ball a number of interactive games, group for the tournament. dances and also various gifts and prizes for the winners. Nabin K. Bhattarai Shangri-La Cricket Academy in performed six of his most romantic association with the Cricket songs on love at the party, treating the Association of Nepal, have organized audience, from different walks of life. this tournament where, altogether The party was an event by Promoters six teams (five regional teams Nepal and organized by the couple GP along with the Armed Police Force Timalsena and Usha Khadgi Timalsena. cricket team) will be competing The party featured gifts from a bottle for the trophy. The opening match of Ramanov Vodka to a free Dish TV for the tournament was between package. Purvanchal and Paschimanchal. “It is definitely a good opportunity for Nepali cricket to boom and we’d like to see Nepal as an ICC Twenty20 Fun team soon,” said Apoorva Srivastav, Nikhil Ghimire Spokesperson at the Embassy of Kathmandu, 19 February India. Miss U Press Release

Yukta Bajracharya Kathmandu,17 February A triangular love story between three good friends – Sanjh, Sakshyam and Jasmine, “Miss U” is directed by Suresh Darpan Pokharel, and produced by Dilip Rayamajhi who is also one of the lead actors of the movie. The movie shot in Malaysia features Namrata Shrestha and Varun Rana in the other lead roles. The cast and crew of “Miss U” along with other personalities from the Nepali film fraternity came to grace the press release for the movie. hallofframe

1 2 3 Valentine’s at Tamarind 14 February, Tamarind Restaurant and Bar Tamarind Restaurant and Bar, Jhamsikhel was host to a lovely party dedicated to love and romance this Valentine’s Day. From the beautiful setup and lightings, couples and groups around, to Nima Rumba performing live along with the Angel band – the organizers succeeded in creating a romantic atmosphere. With some of Nima’s most romantic numbers adding to the romance, enthusiasts around did not hesitate to show their moves, dancing to his beats. 4 5 Prior to Rumba’s performance, the emcee for the evening, Malvika Subba had lots of gifts to give away to the best couples and the singles at the party, ready to express their love on the microphone, dance or even sing for their partners. An ambience of love, sumptuous snacks and drinks, Valentine’s Day at Tamarind was surely memorable to those who witnessed it. 1. Nalina Chitrakar 2. Kabita Thapa 3. Nima Rumba 4. Ajaya Gurung 5. Sarita Gyawali

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Poets in Love 14 14 February, Station BBQ Everyone becomes a poet in love. With this theme, aAction development center organized a poetic evening at Station BBQ, Jhamsikhel, on the occasion of Valentine’s Day. Tilted ‘I am a Poet in Love’, the event was sponsored by Baraha Jewellery. Over 20 personalities from different sectors were seen exploring the poets inside them and reciting their poetry on stage. The host of the evening, former Miss Nepal and CEO of aAction development center Sugarika KC shared interesting responses she received when approaching the various personalities to write and recite their own poetry, sharing that while some were hesitant at first, others were surprisingly enthusiastic. While the audience appreciated poems by everyone, a humorously written poem by Cardiologist Dr. Prakash Raj Regmi was voted the best poem. Dr. Regmi presented love as a ‘disease’ in the 13 poem and pointed out the symptoms and cures of love while ending on a note which said that every one should be infected with ‘love’. 1. Sapana Pradhan Malla 2. Prakash Sayami 3. Navin Singh 4. Narayan Puri 5. Manjul Nepal 6. Manju Karki Lamichhane 7. Prakash Raj Regmi 8. Vidhushi Rana 9. Diya Maskey 10. Srijana Singh Yonzon 11. Anup Baral 12. Bhumika Shrestha 13. Sahana Vajracharya 14. Bigyan Raj Sharma 15. Sugarika K.C. 16. Nir Shah 17. Pampha Bhusal 18. Geeta Tripathi

15 16 17 18 1 2 3 Launch of ‘Tyo Nepal’ 16 February, Alliance Française Based on the interviews of 29 French nationals who came to Nepal for different purposes, and eventually ended up forming a special bond with Nepal and the Nepali people, Tyo Nepal is a book by Dadi Sapkota, and has been published by Jagadamba Prakahsan. While the interviews were conducted in French, the book has been published in the Nepali language thus making the interesting accounts of the French nationals on the Nepal-France relationship available to the wider public here. Tyo Nepal was launched by Jean Romnicianu, Deputy Head of Mission of French Embassy in Nepal, at an event held at Le Bistrot of the Alliance Française. While Chairperson of Madan Puraskar Pustakalaya, Kamal Mani Dixit praised 4 5 the writer for the quality of his work, and expressed his gratitude for the same, career diplomat and former Nepali Ambassador to France, Keshav Raj Jha, gave a review of the book during the event. Commenting about the book, senior editor and journalist Kanak Mani Dixit who was also present at the dais said, “Nepali people are often kept away from the works of French scholars due to the language barrier, but this book will help breach that.” He further mentioned that Tyo Nepal was a unique event in the publishing sector of Nepal. The book is priced at Rs. 350. 1. Keshav Raj Jha 2. Kanak Mani Dixit 3. Anne Lise Heynen 4. Kamal Mani Dixit 5. Jean Romnicianu

1 The British School Fashion Show: For the love of Children A throng of people waited excitedly outside the auditorium doors of The British School, Jhamsikhel for the ‘The British School Fashion Show: For the Love of Children’. The clock did tick and it was six but still there were no signs of the doors opening. Finally, as the gate of the venue opened, everybody rushed to grab their seats. All the complaints for the wait vanished, once the models walked the ramp with the first collection by Astik Sherchan. The immediate attraction was the color and the designs itself – chic and elegant. Other designs that were showcased were from Vivek Upadhya’s Beautification Boutique. Upadhaya’s golden 1 2 bridal gown was definitely the show stopper with its extravagant hand embroidery. The other designs for the evening were from Sumnima Bastola. Also, attires from House of Alternative Apparel owned by Malvika Subba were presented. Three other segments of the event were British School boys, entrepreneur women, and Cotton Mill presentation. It was a fantastic evening, even better because of the cause it was 2 held for. The main aim of this event was to help raise funds for Early Childhood Development Centre (ECDC). A great effort by the Young Enterprise Organization – The British School student organization. 1. Ragini Upadhyay 2. Yogeshwor Amatya 3. Rachana Gurung Sharma 4. Ritu Singh Vaidya 5. Pratima Pande 6. Sophie Upadhyay 7. Sandj Wilderspin 3 4 3 4

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Career Counseling Workshop 18 February, St. Mary’s School 5 6 ASMAN organized a Career Counseling Workshop for all the students from grade 10 and 12 at the school premises, last Saturday. The workshop was basically a talk session from speakers and personalities from different fields including some ex-students of the school, sharing their experience regarding the different paths of life they have chosen for themselves and the steps they took in order to reach the positions they currently hold. The treasurer, Moon Pradhan said, “It’s better for students to learn from professionals about what the challenges are regarding the field they would like to work in, and how they can make it provided they follow the right guidelines.’’ The event was, all in all, an interactive and exciting workshop for the students to know more on ‘what’s-next in life’ and ‘what their available options could be’. After a brief lunch for the attendees, the event was followed by a one-on-one interactive session for the students with the speaker of their choice, from the respective fields, to explain to them and answer all the queries and doubts about the field of work they are interested in. 1. Siddhant Raj Pandey 2. Sangita Khadka 3. Navaraj Pradhan 4. Dr Bharat Raut 4. Malvika Subba 5. Shivani Singh Tharu enterlet the good times begin tainment

MITA HOSALI loves to observe, comment and maverick’s sputter – but she hopes you take musings everything with a pinch of salt. When she is not penning her columns while living in Nepal, she works for the United Nations in Ich bin ein Berliner, for a few Days New York. riving through the snow- efforts were interrupted by Stalin the famous hub of industry activ- swept streets late at night, and Hitler’s regimes. As one film ity, the Hyatt hotel, which opens a fleeting glimpse of the buff said, the collection of 40 or its doors for all to huddle in the Dmoon shimmering on the so silent and sound films were a lobby and coffee shop. There columns of the legendary Bran- discovery of great joy: “It made are certainly cocktail receptions denburg Gate infused my brain you fall in love with something and parties – but the majority of with a sense of surrealism. I was you never knew existed.” these are reserved for the glittera- in Berlin attending the 62nd Berlin Culinary Cinema is one of the ti and not the modest new Direc- Film Festival or Berlinale 2012 more civilized experiences for tors and Producers who are only (9-19 February), and on my way those who relish good food and too grateful for the opportunity to a late night showing of the Ne- good cinema. Falling under this to have an international arena for pali feature film “Highway”. The umbrella this time around were a their films to be screened. second screening was scheduled Mexican film “Canela”, a Portu- Not having been to Berlinale, I for about 11 p.m. and as I strolled guese-Belgian piece “Should the had no idea what to expect. The in, I was informed that there were Wife Confess?” and a German- paparazzi chasing us, flash pho- no tickets left, not even for the Di- company of some of the world’s and applauded for bringing Nepal Taiwanese collaboration “The tography in our faces, being wined rector or Producers or actors. most renowned and established to the rest of the world. Raw and the Cooked.” Following and dined every day. I had visions The day before, “Highway” filmmakers. As the credits rolled, Berlin stands shoulder to the main film screening, a gour- of red carpet fright (for the un- had opened to a full house in one the audience hush was broken by shoulder with Cannes, Sun- met meal is dished up by a group initiated, this is an equally ter- of the larger theatres where the rapturous applause; an exciting dance, Toronto and Venice; the of famous chefs in an elegant tent rifying affliction not unlike stage 400 or so films of the main sec- question and answer session was zenith of the film world where lined with mirrors. So hopefully, fright but with the added disad- tions of the Berlinale are screened summed up by one viewer who the cognoscenti descend, deals even if the film gives you indiges- vantage of falling flat on your over a period of ten days. When thanked Rauniyar for “showing us are struck, industry approval is tion, it is more than made up for face watched by hordes of ador- we found out that “Highway” had another face of Nepal” and allow- conferred, fame garnered, and by the repast that follows. ing fans). I wondered if I would been selected to have its world ing the actors to lead the way with stardom created. There are Of course, Berlin is about a get up close and personal with the premiere at Berlin, the feeling such natural, unscripted dialogue. many categories including both competition, and stars, and the red likes of Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt, was one of awe. Deepak Rauni- Successive screenings of “High- fiction and non-fiction film, carpet. This year Meryl Streep Meryl Streep, and South Asia’s yar, a newcomer to the world of way” were equally mobbed with ranging from the Competition, was honoured with a lifetime very own glitterati, Shah Rukh feature films, was the first from disappointed filmgoers left stand- the Panorama, Forum, Genera- achievement award, and Angelina Khan and Priyanka Chopra. Hap- Nepal to earn the accolade of ing outside; Highway’s Director tion, Short Films, and Children. Jolie turned out for a screening of pily, I never really went anywhere having his film screened in the was approached on the streets Apart from the fact that Berlin her directorial debut, “In the Land too close to the Sacred Temple is held in the most inhospitable of Blood and Honey”. The films of the film festival, the Berlinale season of a freezing northern creating a buzz included young Palast, where the most presti- European winter, this is a film German Director Christian Pet- gious events are staged – and the festival like no other. It is wide zold’s “Barbara”, Benoit Jacquot’s high priests and priestesses of the open to the public and film tick- “Les Adieux à la Reine” (Farewell, film world swan around. And so I ets are sold in a central location; my Queen), and a Canadian entry had no opportunity to trip on that film enthusiasts set aside a week “Rebelle” (War Witch). At the red carpet. to stuff themselves with the of- time of writing, the odds were I wish I had had more time ferings of a major international heavily in favour of “Barbara”, a to watch the dizzying choice film festival. film set in former East Germa- of movies on display, to par- What is rarely understood ny that tells the tale of a female take of the Culinary Cinema, is that many films are seen for doctor banished to a village for to catch films with some of my the first time in Berlin, and then wanting to travel to the West; more favourite divas like Juliette travel the film festival circuit un- the film unravels the excesses of Binoche who came to a screen- Movies at QFX til commercial release in cinema the old Germany enmeshed in ing of her film “Elles”, an in- houses is negotiated. Equally the Cold War. Another film that tense film about a Paris-based Miss U Tere Naal Love Ho important to the launch of the captivated viewers is the black journalist investigating univer- Gaya Release Date: 17 February movie are sales by region and and white “Cesare Must Die” by sity students drawn into prosti- (Friday) Release Date: 24 the colourful and beloved Taviani tution. Truthfully, I came away February (Friday) the pursuit of critical acclaim, It is a story of three friends: Every boy in town which sometimes carries finan- brothers; watched by Highway’s entirely unsatiated after only Sanjh, Sakshyam, and is attracted to the cial rewards and the possibility Executive Producer Sameer Dixit three days in this German me- Jasmine studying abroad. free-spirited tomboy They believe they are of worldwide distribution. This who labelled it a “must-see”, it is tropolis with a rich history and Mini because she has a made for each other but Canadian passport and is one giant marketplace but a docudrama about prisoners who sombre legacy of the past. adversities follow. this beauty is also heiress there are no guarantees. are rehearsing for a production Brrrrlin in February is hardly Cast: Namrata Shrestha, Dilip The Woman in to her father Bhatti’s Offering some fascinating of Julius Caesar in a high security Paris in spring – the sub-zero Rajamajhi, Varun SJB Rana Black business. Seizing the opportunity to escape alternatives to the mainstream prison in Rome. temperatures are daunting, to Release Date: 17 her impending marriage, film hubbub are two favourites I was fortunate to be invited as say the least. But my visit to the February she flees with Viren in an of mine – the Retrospective and a member of the official team of city set abuzz by the Berlinale in A young lawyer, apparent kidnapping. the Culinary Cinema. This year “Highway” and was hugely im- the depths of winter was an ap- Arthur travels to a Cast: Ritesh Deskmukh, the Retrospective showcased a pressed at the seamless arrange- petite whetter. For the Director remote village where Genelia D’Souza he discovers the legendary Russian-German film ments that facilitated our work of “Highway”, Berlin was the be- vengeful ghost of a studio and its German counter- but helped us also to enjoy the fes- ginning of a new journey. And scorned woman is part, which together left their tival. Meanwhile, our partner at I was swept along by a wave of terrorizing the locals. imprint on film history from 1922 Louverture Films, Joslyn Barnes, immeasurable pride to be part of Cast: Daniel Radcliffe, Janet Mcteer to 1936. Aptly entitled the Red in typically good-humoured fash- a talented team determined to put Dream Factory, they churned out ion shepherded her wide-eyed new Nepali cinema on the global 600 films until their prodigious wards around. Deals are struck at map. ! entertainment Fr!day Issue 107 | 29 February 2012 13

Deborah Merola Ph.D., was a 2011 Senior Fulbright in Theater at Tribhuvan University, the Institute for Advanced Communication Education and Research, and Gurukul Theatre. With over 50 productions to her credit, Merola is involved with One World Theatre and Theatre Institute of “Blackface” Kathmandu. s I sat in the audience of an easily known here in Nepal. Blackface often in pejorative ways. Indians elite high school in Kathman- dates from the 19th century American are often called black and looked du for A Raisin in the Sun, I Minstrel Shows when white actors down on, and I will hear unflatter- Awas pleased to see the stage blackened their faces with burnt cork ing comments about beautiful lo- design suggesting a Chicago tene- and, with wooly wigs and exagger- cal actresses because they are dark ment apartment in the 1950s. This ated lips, mimed and mocked their skinned. Clearly, the “Black is Beauti- seminal play by Lorraine Hansberry “Negro” countrymen. ful” movement has not yet arrived in shows a realistic, if slightly dated, Having directed “Uncle Tom’s Kathmandu, and the “Fair and Love- view of black life in America. Cabin” and “Beloved” up North, I was ly” and other ad campaigns, showing Seeing the filmed play, with an familiar with the problem of cast- darker to lighter skin as a movement incendiary performance by Sidney ing black roles without a large pool to beauty, saddens me. So I was glad Poitier, was one of the transforma- of African American actors. I often last spring to see the students from tive experiences of my childhood in turned to African foreign exchange CDE at Tribhuvan University take St. Louis, Missouri. Here was a win- students and brown skinned Chica- on a production of August Wilson’s dow into black life that existed close nos/as for my cast. In “The Raisin in “Fences”, another great play of Af- by—just across the railroad tracks— the Sun” production, several of the rican American family life, with no but separate from my still segregated Nepali actors were clearly as dark apology to color or black dialect. white neighborhood. as many African Americans, whose Still, as I began directing a stage and their beautiful brown skin color was not white. No So it was with a slight wince of black African skin has become café version of Harper Lee’s famous one wanted to take on the role of the “Negros” in the disbelief when I saw the young, sin- au lait through forced relations with novel “To Kill a Mockingbird”, set play, especially Tom Robinson, the young black man cere Nepali actors appear with black white slave owners and the intermix- in the racist American South, the 9th wrongly accused of raping a poor white girl. stockings and “Blackface” on the ing of races in America. grade students of Kasthamandap There was much snickering in class as the roles stage. Of course, the ignominious Also startling to me is the un- School seemed largely unaware that were announced and the student I cast as Tom, a tall, history of Blackface and its absolute abashed reference by many Nepalis they themselves would be considered handsome fifteen year old, came to me privately and political incorrectness could not be to the color of peoples’ skin, most “people of color” in North American said he didn’t want to take the part. Later, I decided to challenge the group, as I myself have been challenged as a young person in my received beliefs. “Why,” I asked, “would none of you want to play Tom Robinson, who is described by the playwright as ‘black, handsome and vital,’ facing up to a false charge ‘with quiet dignity, with an undercurrent in him of kindness, sensitivity and consideration.’ Do you not want to play black characters only because of the color of their skin?” I went on to ask a question that I remembered from my childhood, “Who is it that taught you to hate?” I shared with them my belief that it is important to ask ourselves this question, to recognize that the issues of class and race in rural Georgia in the 1930s or urban America in 2012, are deeply relevant in Nepal today, although perhaps filtered through issues of religion and caste. I encouraged them to make the emphatic leap that Atticus, the white lawyer who defends Tom, asks of his young daughter: “to stand in other peoples’ shoes.” The next day, the boy quietly came to me and told me that he had decided to take the role. When I expressed to the class how proud I was that he could look past the color of someone’s skin to the quality of his character, the students surprised by breaking into loud applause. Since then the young man has shown an in- terest in the blues and wants to learn a black spiritual song to sing when Tom awaits his fate in jail. Realizing that there are very few African Americans in Nepal to teach their culture directly, I approached a large black man who was visiting on a U.S. Embas- sy assignment. Hastening to present my credentials and good intentions, I told the story above and how meaningful it would be for these young people to hear firsthand about his experience of growing up black in America. Initially I could see his back stiffening, but when he heard “To Kill A Mockingbird”, he relaxed and began to enthusiastically share with me his love of the book and its meaning to him. As it turned out, he was raised in South Carolina and, as a later guest in our classroom, told the students of the day when at their age of 15 and walking home through a white neighborhood, a white man driving a car jumped the curb and tried to run him over. He saved his life only by quickly jumping into a hedge. And this was in the late 1980s in America. The students were hugely attentive and respectful, and the man later thanked me and said he was very glad he had come. So no people seem free of these kinds of issues. At- ticus loses his case, as he knew he would, and Tom Rob- inson is convicted of a crime he never committed only because of his “black face”. When Atticus’ son Jem asks him how the jury could find Tom guilty and starts to cry, Atticus allows himself a moment of bitterness: “I don’t know how, but they did it. They’ve done it before, and they did it today and they’ll do it again. And when they do it – seems only children cry.” But if children can cry at injustice and young adults can open their minds to look past color or caste, religion or race, to see the human being that is hope enough, I guess. ! To Kill a Mockingbird performs on Thursday, 1 March 2012, at 1 p.m., and Friday, 2 March at 5:30 p.m. at the Nepal Tourism Board. Tickets at the door: General Admis- sion Rs. 300, Students with ID Rs. 100. gourfor the adventurous palatemet food tasting Star-Struck Picasso It was a star-studded evening at Picasso. Eleven members from Highway’s cast and crew brightened the evening of ‘food tasting’ at Jhamsikhel’s ‘restaurant and bar with an artistic edge’.

— Srishti R.L. Shah

Back Row From Left Front Row From Left Rajan Khatiwada Reecha Sharma Saugat Malla Anne Dirnstorfer Dayahang Rai Bhumika Shrestha Karma Sandip Chhetri Dr. Sameer Mani Dixit Alok Adhikari Abinash Bikram Shah

The conversation: rable incidents were shared and preparations and filming of Bhumika Shrestha confessed laughing. Anne Dirnstofer, re- One word to capture the es- favorite dialogues uttered. And, Highway just poured in with an that she was convinced she did called how she had to repeat sence of the evening – lively. As as the drinks and food flowed in, array of palpable emotions. not want to act in any movie un- “Mero hira ko aunthi harayeko Highway’s cast and crew poured they caught up with each other “So when did you begin film- til the director, Deepak Rauni- cha” innumerable times to get it in gradually, the lounge lit up in snippets. It was like one of ing?” was the only question yar, shared with her the script right. with welcoming those spirited friends’ reunion I asked. The bubbly Reecha and she saw how the role actu- Sharma congratulated Abhi- hugs and greet- gatherings. Sharma had every detail on ally brought out the concerns nash Bikram Shah on the success ings. It quickly With its selection in the 62nd her phone: 3 January 2011 she and issues of the transgender of both his scripts – Loot and turned into Berlin Film Festival, Highway’s signed the film, and the filming community. Highway. The actors commend- a vivacious achievements have created quite Rajan Khatiwada, who plays ed Alok Adhikari for his whole evening – a buzz. The film’s world pre- The enthusiasm the character of the bus driver, hearted effort and recalled how, memo- miere on 10 February in Berlin with which they shared that since he was to drive as one of the assistant directors, has the Nepali audience inquisi- the bus during the filming, the he was indispensible during the tive. The promotional trailer shared their bus owner couldn’t stand the filming. and stills from the film cer- stories and the sight of him. Despite having Sameer Mani Dixit, one of tainly have me impatient for affinity among driven well enough not to have the Executive Producers, stated its release, so hearing the a single scratch on the bus, the that his confidence in the movie cast and crew talk about them ensures owner seemed to be doubtful strengthened once he saw how the film was a treat me that Highway of Khatiwada’s skills. Prompt- Rauniyar worked – improvisa- for me. I didn’t re- will certainly live ly, Reecha exclaimed, “You tion, artistic freedom, and an ally need to prompt wouldn’t believe it, that bus is eye for detail are clearly what them or guide the up to the high always parked outside my house. did the magic for Highway. conversation; expectations we So, I’m constantly refreshing One thing that everyone there was a all have. those Highway memories!” mentioned, and was tangible comfort and Karma shared his experience of from their friendly rapport as a pride they for the movie begun on 2 Febru- having a face-pack on for almost well, was that in spite of so shared, ary. “I can’t wait to the see the two hours for a scene where his many actors being part of the and their movie myself. With five major “limbs were meant to do the act- film, nobody had any qualms stories plots woven into the scripts, we ing” while he’s getting a facial. about one outshining the other. from know only how our part was Sandip Chhetri – with his Instead, everyone supported the filmed,” she shared. She stressed expressive personality, gregari- each other right from the prepa- she wants to see how Saugat ous laughter, and inexhaustible ration, to what to wear, and how Malla’s part turned out in par- supply of humorous incidents – to perform a shot better. “This ticular. The poised Malla had was the life of the evening. “Yes, is uncommon in most filming an almost magnetic mysterious there was all that much talked experiences in the Nepali movie air about him. Though a little about improvisation. But, there industry,” confessed Sharma. hesitant at first, Malla ended up was the reality of props that I All in all, a vibrant evening sharing some stories with a had to bear with. In the scene that uncovered various sides little prompting from where I beat up someone, the of these personalities and a the others. script demanded a heavy rod, glimpse into what the much On a more and they actually handed me awaited Highway might be serious note, a five kilo rod!” Chettri shared like. gourmet Fr!day Issue 107 | 29 February 2012 15

Picasso Surprise Platter Cheese and Potato Croquettes with Tarter Sauce weekend hunts For Affordable Rates

Bhumi Restaurant & Bar

With interesting outdoors setting and cozy rooms, Bhumi has a reputation for good food at probably the best prices in the city. From Newari dishes like chicken egg chatamari and mixed bara to the sumptuous choyela, Bhumi serves great food along with an entirely different experience of eating out.

Chopstix A wise selection of venue if you’re looking to throw a party, with indulging interior enough Stuffed Chicken in Basket to get you to sink in, Chopstix is a place where even food demands serious attention. With Picasso Canvas signature dishes like chicken dragon to the Nam Thai thee, the restaurant serves great Chinese and continental food at affordable prices.

Jatra Done in low lighting and spreads of green, Jatra is one simple and comfortable restaurant if you’re looking for good food and a change of mood. From the delicious Newari appetizers to the special offer, snacks and dinner for a person for just Rs. 500 makes this place perfect for eating out if low in budget.

Picasso Late Night Chicken and Pork Bar-Be-Que

The menu lineup: surprise is with the assortment seasonal vegetables and choron The verdict: The comfortable sofas, innova- of appetizers which varies with sauce was found a little bland The cocktails were innova- tive drinks, and platters of ap- what the chef wants to treat compared to the surprise plat- tive and artistically presented petizing delights – the guests all you with on different days. A ter that preceded it. The show- which everyone was happy with, agreed that Picasso was a won- good choice if there is a large stopper for the evening was the and the smooth-on-the-palate derful host. The evening com- group with varying palates as chicken and pork Bar-Be-Que abstract winter punch was an menced with a variety of drinks: the assortment ensures that that wowed every one with its absolute hit. The service, some an appealing mocktail – Picasso there’s something for everyone. presentation and flavors. The felt, needed a little speeding up. Canvas, the vodka based Picasso The platter was better appreci- barbequed meat was accompa- But, they played their cards right Late Night, which was an invit- ated compared to its vegetar- nied by seasonal vegetables sau- by sweeping the guests away More on ing blue cocktail, and mulled ian counterpart, the cheese and téed in butter, and baked potato with their signature dish in the restaurants and bars wine. However, it was the Picas- potato croquettes with tarter with sour cream. It came in on end, that too with two options around so Abstract Winter Punch that sauce. a silver foil that was placed on a – chicken and pork. It was loved the city in was declared the favorite, as the The stuffed chicken in basket, hot perforated earthen pot. The by the non-vegetarian majority, Kathmandu’s Restaurants praises called for a second round which was minced chicken with pots were emptied promptly as who were all ready to overlook and Bars 2012 of the concoction. ricotta cheese stuffed in chicken every one tucked in to Picasso’s any dissatisfaction once The Picasso surprise plat- breasts and pan-fried, served signature dish, and the praises they begun devouring the ters followed the drinks. The with mashed potato and sautéed flowed in. barbecued meat !

gourmet Fr!day Issue 107 | 29 February 2012 17 The Rather Chinese Venue restro news Hotel Himalaya Get ready to treat yourself With its oriental interiors and a menu that boasts of fresh ingredients, The to an endless variety of lip Venue Restaurant and Bar is a cosy place that you might want to visit the smacking delights, along with a live band performance 7 p.m. next time you’re in the Lazimpat area, and you crave for some authentic onwards, every Friday. Enjoy and celebrate the beautiful Chinese dishes. season of monsoon at Hotel Himalaya. — Wallace Woon 5523904, Kupondole The Corner Bar Enjoy delicious food and sumptuous snacks along with a live performance by the band Aaramva, from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. five days a week, except on Mondays and Thursdays. just Rs. 75. Serving both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, the 4423888, Lazimpat lunch menu will feature Indian, Chinese and Nepali cuisines at Bourbon Room reduced prices. And, you can add Bourbon Room is offering prompt service to the package! promotional lunch meals at discounted rates starting from 4441703, Lal Durbarmarg Look out for: Chicken momo Mushroom in garlic sauce advertisement Szechuan chicken Chicken chowmein

ituated beside the up- chitectural concepts, but it cer- The Szechuan chicken was a market Lazimpat road tainly lends itself to the relax- nice change from the usual Nepali lies The Venue Restau- ing ambience of the restaurant. and Newari flavours. The sweet- Srant and Bar. Entering One culinary specialty which ness of the oyster sauce is mar- the ground floor you immedi- The Venue boasts is the fact ried with the aroma of ginger and ately notice that the layout is that their noodles are made on the fiery chillies which are used somewhat different from most site firstly ensuring that the ar- liberally throughout traditional restaurants. For me it was a tificial ingredients which come Szechuan cuisine. I was dismayed Grilled Beef with caramelized sweet touch of familiarity, given my in factory-made noodles are not however by the choice of using potato & demiglazed Rs. 510 Singapore Chinese heritage, the present, and that they are fresh- shredded and not diced chicken small cosy rooms and the pri- ly prepared. pieces. This meant that the chick- vate dining areas all pay tribute However, the downside to en was too dried out from the stir to the modern Chinese styles of this special feature is that most frying process, and what little restaurants. people coming to a restaurant meat remained, was overpowered Why the oriental touch, you would not order the chowmein by the sauce ladled on top of it. might ask, and it is simply be- dishes which feature their trade- The chicken momos, how- cause The Venue prides itself mark noodles. Granted that the ever, are a delight, especially for in serving an array of authen- egg chowmein we were served those who tend to shy away from tic Chinese styled dishes. Up, on had all the subtlety of the fla- the usual masala spiced variety the roof, there is a sheltered bal- vours done right, I would prob- found throughout Kathmandu. cony for customers to enjoy din- ably have chosen a dish which I Light and tasty, prepared in the Third Eye Restaurant ing al fresco. The green-tinted would not be able to find else- same way which Shanghainese Thamel, Kathmandu, 4260289 roof may not be the latest in ar- where. dumplings are, the momos were a joy to consume bite after bite. White Forest Cake Rs. 376 With reasonable prices all The noodles for our chowmein along the price range, with the dishes are made fresh here, and we most expensive being a dish of garlic prawns costing a mere Rs. focus a lot on Chinese flavors and 520, The Venue is an affordable ingredients – Supervisor, Shital Khanal location to relax and enjoy some flavourful Chinese cuisine. !

Third Eye Bakery Thamel, Kathmandu, 4701510

Pla Neung Manao (Steamed fish with Lemon Sauce, medium) Rs. 745

Yin Yang Restaurant Thamel, Kathmandu, 4701510

Read

Every Thursday marketsba & launcheszaar

particular about the brands that I am inside, prismatic rear-view mirror, tinted has a dust free keypad. The model has for women and comes with features Dell Celebrates associated with. Colors is one of the glasses, height adjustable headrests for a special screen meant for watching such as mp3, mp4 and MMS applications. fastest growing and trusted brands that the front and rear seats. movies for a long period of time While both the phones can support a Valentine’s Day is contemporary, showcases attributes without hurting the eyes, according to memory of up to 4 GB, Gadgets Nepal Yukta Bajracharya that go with my own personality. I am a press release. The phone is priced at is giving a free 1 GB memory card on Kathmandu, 14 February happy to be associated with them.” Alliance Completes 15 Rs. 3,500.The Folding S159 designed purchase of these models. The Generation Next Communications Yukta Bajracharya of the Bhimsaria Group of Companies Kathmandu, 17 February which is an authorized distributor New Kia Outlet MISCELLANEOUS HS system, 35X optical zoom lens with of Dell laptops, desktops, printers, USM/VCM and upgraded smart auto Yukta Bajracahrya Alliance Insurance has completed projectors, LCDs and LEDs announced dENiZEN™ Discount 32 scenes option and iFrame movie, Kathmandu, 16 February its fifteen years of operation. Now its 14 lucky draw winners on the that the government has made third Launched in Asia in 2010, dENiZEN™ amongst other features. occasion of Valentine’s Day at the Dell was created by the original jeans maker A new showroom for Kia vehicles was insurance policy compulsory, it has Steaming it Good Mela organized at Putalisadak. Under launched in Dhumbarahi by Global witnessed a rise in insurance claims, Levi Strauss & Co. Levi’s dENiZEN™ Steaming is an easy way to prepare a the Valentine’s Day offer which began Associates. The new outlet will provide thus increasing the premium during is outfitting new generation with tasty meal which is full of flavor. The from 8 February, every customer who purchasing, selling and repairing facilities fiscal year 2010-11 as a result of high-quality jeans wears and fashion Philips Steamer is a useful kitchen bought an XPS laptop was given a free for Kia vehicles where as a maintenance which the company has decided to essentials at affordable prices. appliance which helps to keep the printer, and with the purchase of Queen unit has also been started at the give seven percent bonus shares to dENiZEN™ is offering up to 40 goodness of the food locked in. With a Series laptop, they received a Queen showroom. The outlet will sell and its shareholders this fiscal year. Under percent discount, as a part of its winter ‘herbs and spices accessory’ attached, exchangeable cover. A package of pen provide after sales service for all Kia the directive of the Insurance Board sale, at its exclusive outlets at NLIC the steamer has a special flavor booster drive, key cover and mouse was given models as well as stock spare parts and that has asked insurance companies City Center, Kamaladi, and Civil Mall, feature which helps make food more for free with the purchase of other provide exchange facilities. to increase paid up capital to Rs. 250 Sundhara. delicious. The preset timings and digital series. The company also introduced million till the fiscal year 2012-13, More from Canon timer function allows the selection of Dell’s XPS BREITLING Series laptops Alliance has decided to give bonus Primax International, the sole the correct steaming time while the which are now available in the market. th shares instead of cash dividend. As per authorized distributor of Canon ‘keep warm’ function keeps food warm 100 Volkswagen the directive, it will increase its issue in Nepal, has unveiled two new for longer. The Steamer has three and paid up capital ratio to Rs. 500 Polo on the Road Canon models under the Powershot stackable steaming tiers which require million each. The company has, till the Yukta Bajracharya series: Canon Powershot S100 and less storage space, and removable Colors Fighter second quarter of the fiscal year, been Kathmandu, 17 February Powershot SX40 HS. The devices which bottoms allow steaming larger pieces of able to collect Rs 19.8 million from Rajesh Hamal suit both amateur and professional food. A recipe booklet comes free with insurance policies while earning a profit Yukta Bajracharya Pooja International, the authorized photographers feature a number of the Philips Steamer. Kathmandu, 16 February importer of Volkswagen vehicles for of Rs 10.22 million. advanced functions with superior lens Nepal, announced the sale of its 100th quality compared to their competitors Volkswagen Polo at a press meet in the same segment – according to held at the Volkswagen Showroom in Hero Honda Dinesh Agrawal, marketing manager of Panipokhari. The key of the 100th polo Primax International. was handed over to buyer N.B. Thapa. Winners While the Powershot S100 is an The Volkswagen New Polo has won Yukta Bajracharya upgraded version of the S95 model and numerous accolades around the world Kathmandu, 17 February comes with improvements like 12.1 including the coveted “World Car of Syakar Company Pvt. Ltd., the mega pixel with HS system, F2.0 lens the Year 2010”, “2010 European Car of authorized dealers of Hero Honda with 5X optical zoom and smart auto the Year”, “2010 Australian Car of the motorbikes, had organized a lucky draw 32 scenes functionalities, the Powershot Year” and “2011 South African Car of scheme on the occasion of New Year SX40 has improved 12.1 mega pixel the Year” among others. 2012, the lucky draw winners of which Talking about Polo, Bibek Bijukchhe, were Ganga Ram Bhattrai (Birtamod), The superstar of Kollywood, Rajesh General Manager, Pooja International Netra Prasad Bhandari (Pokhara) D.A.O. Lalitpur Regd. No.77-066/67 Hamal, has been appointed by Teletalk said, “The features of New Polo car and Indra Prasad Aryal (Bharatpur). ECS Media Pvt. Ltd, Kupondole, Lalitpur, Nepal. 5011571. Pvt. Ltd. to feature in the Colors mobile No. 107 29 February 2012 are totally adapted for Nepali road Under the scheme, the company had Fighter series F-16, F-17, F-18, F-19, launched a scratch coupon offer which Publisher: ECS MEDIA Pvt. Ltd. F-35 and F-99. “Our fighter series conditions where sturdy suspension and Editor: Sunil Raj Shrestha Sr. Manager, Editorial & Marketing: Neeraz Koirala higher ground clearance to negotiate had a maximum limit of Rs. 10,000 for Director, Editorial & Marketing: Nripendra Karmacharya Asst. Editor: Srishti rl shah has long battery life, dual SIM mode, customers who bought Hero Honda Sr. Manager, Editorial & Marketing: SUDEEP SHAKYA Editorial Coordinator: smriti basnet high-resolution camera, GPRS, torch with potholes and rough road is a must. Manager, Editorial & Marketing: charu s. malhotra Inhouse Writers: Yukta bajracharya, Pawas bikes during the offer. Manager, Editorial & Promotions: Niladri S. Parial manandhar light, wireless fm, Mp4/mp3 player and Similarly, it has powerful air conditioning HR Executive: prAGYA POKHREL many more features that will help and strong monocoque body required Color Separation: Design Assistants: dipesh maharjan, anjan ale people to win in every aspects of their by local market condition.” CTP Nepal Pvt. Ltd, HATTIBAN, Sr. Photographer: Dash B. Maharjan life. Our brand manifesto is ‘Fighter 525.0466, 525.0468 Photographers: yogendra maharjan, The New Polo will be available in three New Bird Series Printing: Jagadamba Press, Hattiban, mohammad shahnawaz always wins’ and it was important to 525.0017/18/19 Asst. Managers, Sales & Marketing: establish a strong connection with key trim levels: the Trendline, Comfortline Yukta Bajracharya Distributor: Kasthamandap Distribution BijenDRA PRADHAN, Angiras Manandhar and Highline. Common across all the Kathmandu, 17 February Pvt. Ltd. 424.7241 Sales Executive: nirbheek subedi brand attributes. I truly believe that our Disclaimer Ad Enquiries: [email protected] variants are power steering with tilt association with Mr.Hamal will seek to Gadgets Nepal has launched Bird Columnists are entitled to their own views and opinions. They do Sr. Subscription & Distribution Executive: establish and achieve exactly that,” said and telescopic adjustment, manually not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of ECS Media and Bikram Shrestha mobile’s two new models – Folding the organizaton cannot be held liable for the same. Readers are Marketing & Subscription Executive: atulya acharya Geeta Neupane, Marketing Manager, adjustable side-view mirrors, HVAC, encouraged to write to us at [email protected] S159 and H2 Movie Series in the Teletalk. front power windows (with an auto Our sister publications down), central locking, body colored market. Made specially made to watch Speaking on the occasion Hamal bumpers, tachometer, engine immobilizer, movies, the H2 Movie Series is slim, himself commented, “I have always been chrome finished door handles on the equipped with multimedia features, and

highspiritsfor the love of drinking

laden food for the smells, tastes, natural safety cap, by means of a In Europe the process of distil- calories or nutrients they provide. process called distillation. Distil- lation was discovered by a mysteri- The intoxications are side effects lation let the genie of hard alco- ous Spaniard called Ramon Llull The Story of Spirits but not serious enough to deter fur- hol, commonly known as spirits, who lived on the island of Majorca — Dominik von Bohlen ther use.” Mckenna goes on to de- out of the bottle and society has in the thirteenth century. Although scribe how a bird called the North been simultaneously celebrating we know very little about Llull’s American sapsucker drills little this technological breakthrough life what we do know is that he cre- holes into the sides of trees which and paying the price for it ever ated a distilled spirit which he called then become filled with sap. True since. ‘aqua vini’ by fermenting wine in a to its name the sapsucker, a close With the use of a simple water double boiler of horse dung for cousin of the woodpecker, drinks cooled condenser alcohol vapour twenty days before distilling it with some of the collected sap and feeds can be captured and returned to a crude cold water condenser. Llull on the insects that are attracted to liquid form. This is the underlying was extremely exited about his fin- it. When it has had its fill it flies principle of distillation as many ished product, sharing his discov- away and eventually, when it feels rakshi making households in vil- ery with the scientific community, hungry again, it will drill another lages and towns across Nepal well and writing that, “The taste of it hole into another tree for the same know. The process can in theory exeedeth all other tastes and the purpose. Meanwhile the sap in the isolate the sought after molecule smell all other smells,” and also that first hole, if the temperature is and produce pure alcohol and this it was, “of marvelous use and com- right, will ferment and produce al- method of recapturing alcohol modity a little before the joining cohol. “The drinking of fermented from its vaporous state is what gave in battle to encourage the soldiers’ sap has been held responsible for rise to the practice of referring to minds”. Like Ko Hung in China, an array of abnormal behaviours distilled drinks as spirits. Llull was an alchemist and as such observed in hummingbirds, squir- The earliest mention of spirits one of the aims of his esoteric rels and unsuspecting sapsuckers,” in writing was made by the Chinese experiments was to discover the comments McKenna. alchemist Ko Hung who lived in elixir of life, rumoured amongst Almost as if by design, na- the fourth century AD. While dis- alchemists to bestow immortality ture, in her bountiful wisdom, has cussing different methods for the on whoever drank it. It remains firmly put a cap on the strength preparation of cinnabar, Ko Hung unclear whether or not, in distill- of alcohol that can be produced wrote, “They are like wine that ing aqua vini, Llull believed that ince the process of fer- under the right conditions, can do by fermentation. Fermented liq- has been fermented once; it cannot his search had come to end but one mentation is so straightfor- the same and many animals delib- uids, which human beings have be compared with the pure, clear thing does remain clear: by discov- ward, alcohol can and does erately search for and consume the been brewing systematically since wine that has been fermented nine ering a means of purifying alcohol Sfrequently occur in nature results. 10,000 BC when they first began times.” The statement, as McK- Llull was responsible for ushering all by itself, without the meddle- The botanist Terrence Mck- to plant crops, can never contain enna has observed, “seems to imply in a whole new era in the history of some help of human beings. It is enna has written: “Field teams have an alcohol content of more than the knowledge of methods for the drinking: a small step for man, a gi- well known that the toddy palm investigated dozens of cases, from 14% since at this concentration preparation of very strong clear ant leap for mankind. So, the next of Southeast Asia produces a form Sumatra to the Sudan, involving further formation of alcohol is in- alcohols, perhaps by the capture of time you wake up with a sore head of drinkable alcohol straight from creatures from bumblebees to bull hibited. Only in relatively recent alcohol vapour in wool from which after downing shots of tequila the the tree, although I’ve heard it’s elephants. The results? In natural human history has man success- could be wrung a relatively pure night before, don’t just blame your- none too palatable. Rotting fruit, habitats, most animals seek alcohol- fully begun to tamper with this liquid alcohol.” self, blame Ramon Llull. !