12 March 2015 28 Kmfnu')F 2071

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! Nepal Gypsy Jazz The annual Gypsy Jazz Festival is back. Organized by JJ Sultans and Hari Maharjan, this year’s Gypsy Jazz started on 28 February, and will be on till the 14 March. Gypsy Jazz, stared by guitarist Jean ‘ Django’ Reinhardth in 1930, has its origin in France. It is also known by the French name ‘Jazz Manouche’ or ‘Manouche Jazz’. This time, the featured artists are: Daniel Givone (France), Xavier Mollien (Switzerland), Samuel Pont (Switzerland), Nicolas Fardel and Greg Pittet (Switzerland), Hari Maharjan Project (Nepal) and Kutumba (Nepal). For the first time, it’s also being held in Pokhara. Where and where? 11 March- towards Pokhara 12 March: Olie Café, Lakeside Pokhara Spreading their wings 13 March: Center Point, Lakeside Pokhara 14 March: de Grand Finale @ Attic, Naxal, Kathmandu This week, Kripa Unplugged features Unplugged Season II, Avaya comments, “The Time: 7 pm onwards Albatross, the heartthrob of rockers in live recording theme was very appealing Contact: JJ Sultans Prasang Shrestha – 9813441391, Hari Maharjan Kathmandu. The band is a thriving bunch and the production team also seemed quite – 9841295218, Pratik Pradhan – 9860342165 that has already made a significant mark in professional.” the local music scene. So what is the band up to these days? Some of the songs that the band is going “Right now, we are taking a musical break as to play for you in this episode of the musical Sirish is in the States. But we do have a call Editorial show are: Aafnai Sansarma Kina, Nischal for a US tour this year.” Fr!day, the Smarter Entertainment Weekly is Five years old and it and Maa Raa Malai. The other note-worthy The band has produced a total of four has been quite a journey. We started out when Kathmandu’s urban thing about the band is that they write studio albums so far. Their recent one is event scene at had just started reinventing itself. Over the years, it’s become bigger, better and more happening than it has ever their own lyrics and compose their own Maa Raa Malai-- released in 2014. Albatross been. There’s always one or more art exhibitions, musical events tunes. Not only that band members Kismat initially shot to fame with their song Farki and fests with numerous artist both from Nepal and abroad, and the Shrestha (drums, percussions), Avaya Farki, almost a decade ago. Since then, Nepal Gypsy Jazz Festival happening this month in Kathmandu and Bajracharya (backup vocals, bass), Sunny there was no looking back for the talented Pokhara resonates this fact. Even Nepali cinema has transcended boundaries, reaching out to the audience that a few years ago would Maharjan (guitars) and Sirish Dali (guitars, musicians of this band that has surprised never have thought of buying a ticket to watch a Nepali movie on the vocals) produce their songs by themselves. their fans with ever-evolving forms of big screen. Now we see hordes of fans lining out on premiere day Regarding their shoot for Kripa music. itself and tweeting or updating their FB status sharing their verdict. Our urban cityscape and lifestyle is ever evolving, and we are seeking out entertainment in a smarter way made easier by the TOP 3 Events number of choices that we now have at our disposal. Kathmanduties are eating out more than ever and we now can boasts of having Women’s Day Calls for Startuppers Ahoy! Give blood, save lives eateries that serve food from all over the world. The drinking culture Emerging Blood Donation has slowly started maturing as well. By discerning about what we Celebration! drink by becoming informed drinkers instead of merely indulgent. Women group art Entrepreneurs Forum Program Fr!day has seen the urban scene change, actively been a part of exhibition Date: 12 March, Date: 14 March this change and do hope to be a part of it in the coming days as well. We invite you to celebrate this momentous landmark with us! Date: 13 March to 30 Thursday Time: 10:30 am April Time:11 am onwards onwards Time: 10 am to 5 pm Venue: Indreni Venue: Bijeshwori Astha Joshi Venue: Newa Chhen Complex Secondary School, POST US: Email event details to [email protected] or Art Gallery, Kulimha Contact: 2299527, Swayambhu Marg, call 5011571/ 5011639/ 5011730/ 5011731 for listings. Listings Entry: Free [email protected] Kathmandu, are free but inclusion is not guaranteed due to limited space.

Kickstart//Out & About 10

What are you swigging this weekend? FOOD BBQ Weekends with Beer Date: 1 March onwards OUT ABOUT Time: 6 to 10 pm & Venue: The Terrace Garden, Respite at the Corner Radisson Hotel Happy Hours- Buy One ! - Get One Free ! Enjoy the stunning view of Kathmandu with barbecue and beer Time: 4pm to 7pm, Contact: 4411818 at The Terrace Garden, at the Hotel ART AND THEATRE Venue: The Corner Bar, Radisson Hotel Radisson. BBQ Weekends with Beer (every Friday and Saturday evening) Enjoy good times at The Corner Bar is the place to be if you are looking Women’s Day Calls for Celebration! for a casual atmosphere and some Women group art exhibition and make the happy hours happier fresh air. Date: 13 March to 30 April with the “Buy One, Get One Free!” Time: 10 am to 5 pm Venue: Newa Chhen Art Gallery, Kulimha offer on regular spirits, all house Entry: Free wines, and domestic liquors. Pull up Contact: 5535532 a seat at one of Kathmandu’s best Newa Chhen Art Gallery is organizing a Women Group Art Exhibition. bars and order yourself the classiest The Women’s Day event will feature works of renowned artists such as Sharda Chitrakar, Sarita Dangol, Erina Tamrakar, Puspanjali Shrerchan cocktails or the bartender’s and Pramila Bajracharya. innovative mixes.

Choose your own adventure Adventerous Outdoors Himalayan Outdoor Festival IV Outdoors Date: 21 March Venue: Hattiban For more info: himalayanoutdoorfestival.com

The Himalayan Outdoor Festival is back. The Himalayan Outdoor Festival offers adventure for everyone. It not only features trail running (50km and 12km), but also events such as rock climbing, and biking (night uphill, cross country and downhill). Apart from these, there are a number of leisure activities that you could try out like slack- line, flying fox and zip-lining. If you are done with all these, you can always check out the auto expo. And yes, don’t forget to visit the food stalls.

Wanderlust Journeying for Art Date: 11 January to 12 April, Contact: 5522307, Entry: Free Time: 11am to 5pm, Venue: Park Gallery, Pulchowk, Lalitpur Young artist Dhwoj Gurung personal art philosophy, Dhwoj is presents his take on plein-air currently pursuing the third year watercolor and acryclic landscapes of his BFA at Lalitkala Campus. and scenes. Basically, the term Originally from Daraundi, Dhwoj ‘plein-air’ is a French expression is an avid traveler and cyclist, which means "in the open air" and having covered an impressive is particularly used to describe tract of ground all over Nepal: Adventure beckons the act of painting outdoors. from Nuwakot to the ABC circuit Dhwoj’s work resonates with Tansen Ultra 2015 to Janabahal, he depicts all the color and form and his freestyle Date: 28 May to 31 May Venue: inspiration into his art. This appoach balances visual drama Tansen, Palpa with academic painting.His quarterly exhibition represents a images may seem carefree but step in Dhwoj’s journey. More than For more information: www. the thought and composition that 25 paintings selected from his gnarlybiking.com/tansen he has brought forth provides a trips will be showcased from 11 unifying framework for his visual January to 12 April as part of Park The hill station of Tansen is elements. En-route developing a Gallery’s fourth quarterly show. gearing up for some trail action once again! Organized by Shivapuri Climb Dharohar Adventures and Gnarly, Duration: 2 to 3 hours to Nangi and 6 to 7 to the Tansen Ultra 2015 will have three summit, Difficulty level: Easy - Moderate, can be strenuous flagship races: downhill, ultra at some points, trail running, and for first time Contact: 4381214/9801024777, info@nature- in Nepal, urban cross-country. treks.com More than 150 athletes (both Have you ever hiked at Shivapuri National Park? professionals and amateurs) Take a leisure walk along the national park trail are expected to take part in the through Buddhist monasteries or march all the way to the summit, either way it will be an three-day event scheduled to indulging experience. Shivapuri National Park, start on 28 May. Ultra Tansen, with the sub-tropical forest covered Shivapuri Peak standing at 2732 m, is the closest hiking with ten different categories, has trail to the capital. The park is also where the something in store for everyone. sacred rivers Bagmati and Bishnumati originate. 11

Give blood, save lives Startuppers Ahoy! Blood Donation Program Emerging Entrepreneurs live wire Date: 14 March Forum MISCELLANEOUS Time: 10:30 am onwards Date: 12 March, Thursday Venue: Bijeshwori Secondary School, Time:11 am onwards MULCHOWK Swayambhu Marg, Kathmandu, Venue: Indreni Complex Live performance every Contact: Rtn. Satya Bdr. Contact: 2299527, aidia. Friday by Mul (band) Weekend of stressbusting Shrestha: 9851159600 and [email protected] Genre: fusion and classical 9841423737 Attractions: special chef Wellbeing Weekend in Kathmandu Valley menu If you are a young Date: 13 March, Friday Rotary Club of Swoyambhu, on the Time: 6:15pm-9:15pm occasion of its Chartered Day, is entrepreneur, this Location: Babar Mahal Contact: Mandala Tours, 4438133, www. organizing a blood donation drive. When program just for you. The Revisited Emerging Entrepreneurs mandalatours.info you donate blood, you not only help Contact: 01-4259801 save lives, but are also become healthy. Forum, organized by the Asian Institute AILA LOUNGE AND For those who are feeling stressed due to of Diplomacy and RESTAURANT International Affairs, aims 3rd Chapter (band) work, the Wellbenig Weekend event will teach to provide entrepreneurs Friday: 13 March you how to manage stress. It will also focus an opportunity to interact Time: 6:30pm onwards on ways to have a healthier relationship with with experts from different Location: Kumaripati sectors. According to the Contact: 01-5008681 yourself and others. The holistic weekend event organizers, at the end of will show you the right way to achieve physical, the event participants Moksh Every Tuesday emotional, mental, and spiritual well- will have a better understanding of their Rohit John Chhetri being through interactions, plays, and existing knowledge and ideas. Time: 7pm onwards meditation. Location: Jhamsikhel Contact: 5528362 Getting into the spirit of cricket Embassy Restro & Bar First Ever Street Children’s T20 Cricket Weekly Schedule: Tournament 2015 Sunday, Monday, Tuesday Date: 12 April and Thursday: Live Piano Venue: Hupra Stadium, Hetauda performances by Pema Wednesday: Live perfor- Entry: Rs.300 mance by OM (band) with BBQ station For details Friday: Unplugged music Website: www.oursansar.org / Facebook: https://www. by Prayaas (band) with BBQ station facebook.com/oursansarNGO Saturday: Acoustic performance by Dharmendra & Celebrating International Day for Street Children, which falls on Bittu with BBQ station 12 April, Our Sansar announces the first ever street children’s Time: 6:30pm onwards T20 cricket tournament in Nepal. Several teams from children’s Location: Lazimpat homes in Parsa, Chitwan, and Makwanpur districts will be taking Contact: 4424040 MUSIC & PARTIES part in the tournament. The semi-final and final games will take Tamarind Restro and Bar place at Hupra Stadium in Hetauda, with the final taking place Every Thursday, Sunday and Monday DANCE FIRST. THINK LATER. on 12 April i.e. International Day for Street Children. Children Live piano by Sunil Singh 12 Days Salsa Dance Training love sports and this tournament aims to give kids, who otherwise Wednesday: 18 March Date: 7 February to 25 April (Saturdays only), would not have the opportunity, a chance to compete, to be part OM (band) Time: 9am to 11am, Venue: Cultural Promotion of a team, and to play against their peers. Shakti Gauchan, a prominent member of the national cricket team, will be the Saturday: 14 March Forum (CPF) Dance Center, Chappalkarkhana, Supersonic (band) Chakrapath, Entry: Rs.2500 (Couples)/Rs.1500 ambassador for the event. Many local companies, schools, groups, and organizations are set to join in on the celebrations. Time: 7:00pm to 10:00pm (Singles), Contact: 9851160001 (Juna Rai - Location: Jhamsikhel Managing Director, CPF Dance Center) Contact: 5522626 Jazz Upstairs Wanna dance, dance, dance till you drop? Wednesday: 18 March Well, now you can dance for 12 days Cadenza straight! Starting 7 February, a salsa Time: 7:00pm onwards dance training program is being organized Location: Lazimpat Contact: 4416983 by Rotaract Club of Jawlakhelto increase Madhusala Every Friday till Wednesday your confidence level Uday & Manila Sotang live as well as improve with Jeewan Kalapremi and your dance skills. Nava Ratna (band) The training Time: 7:15-11:30 pm will span over Location: Durbar Marg Contact: 4223613 12Saturdays. If you are even a Tamas Laya Wednesday: 18 March little interested in Open Night with Jovan dancing,don’t Friday: 13 March (Naxal) miss this Accoustix opportunity. Time: 7:00-10:00pm Location: Naxal Contact: 4414395 1.Greg Pittet 2.Xavier Moillen 3 3.Bishal Dhakal 4.Nikhil Tuladhar 2 4 5 5.Nhyoo Bajracharya, Rajesh Shah and Pawan Chitrakar 6.Antoinia Messi 7.Daniel Givone

6 7 A Night of Gypsy Jazz 4 March, Maan Nam Restaurant, Baluwatar Despite the exceptionally chilly evening–courtesy to the three-day long rain–the second show of the this year’s Nepal Gypsy Jazz Festival, went without a hitch at the Maan nam Restaurant in Baluwatar. A group of jazz artists from Europe along with our very own Hari Maharjan enchanted the audience through the evening with gypsy jazz numbers played with an ensemble of guitars, bass and violin. Organized by JJ Sultans, this is the second year Nepal Gypsy Jazz Festival has been celebrated, starting on February 28. This year the ensemble includes Daniel Givone (France), Greg Pittet (Switzerland) and Hari Maharjan in guitar, Samuel Pont (Switzerland) playing the bass and Xavier Moillen (Switzerland) playing the violin.

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First Steps 6 7 to Miss Nepal 6 March, Kathmandu “We are not trying to find Miss Nepal. 1.Sonu Thapa Magar Perhaps, our philosophy is to create a role 2.Evana Manandhar model,” said Subarna Chhetri, director of 3.Rebika Chhetri Hidden Treasure as he welcomed this year’s 4.Prasansa Parajuli participants to the pre-grooming session. 5.Malvika Subba Former Miss Nepals Malvika Subba and 6.Preeti Sitoula Sweta Singh’s briefed the participants on six- 7.Subarna Chhetri week-long training. Continuing its tradition, Hidden Treasure will focus on ‘Beauty with Purpose’ this year also. Participants will be free to choose the cause they want. 1 Friends of the Philippines 2 March , Kathmandu 1.Birat Shrestha It’s now official. The Nepal-Philippines 2.Sarad Shrestha Chamber of Commerce and Industries 3.Sreya Sotang was launched amid a function in 4.Swapnil Sharma the city. Hon Consul General of the Philippines Suraj Vaidya inaugurated the event. He hoped the new chamber 1 2 will promote trade and investment between the Philippines and Nepal. Roseline Budhathoki is the president of NPCCI. Similarly, Blessie G Dhakal, Salvacion P Shakya, Luzviminda P Thapa and Floramae Paudel are senior vice president, junior vice president, secretary and treasurer. Marivic A Gurung and Emma L Pariyar are executive members 2

Women in Concert 8 March, Basantapur Durbar Square UNICEF, UN Women, UNFPA and Nirbhaya Foundation in Nepal jointly organized a free musical event ‘Women in Concert’ in Kathmandu on the occasion 1.Suraj Vaidya of International Women’s Day. 2.John Paul The event was organized to urge 3.Niraj Tiwari everyone to speak against violence 4.Anu Pradhan and against women and children. Sandhya Shrestha Abhaya Subba, lead singer of 5.Lina Budhathoki the band Abhaya and the Steam Injuns, was one of the 21 female singers performing at the event. Kickstart// Week that Was 14

For the love of music 1 March, Kathmandu Ruslan FM announced the launch of its new radio station on 95.2 MHz. The station plays non-stop music. Ruslan FM will play music for everyone -- melancholic green tunes to the latest offerings in different genre. Supported by notable people from sectors of the Week WAS entertainment industry, the station believes that its listeners will THAT enjoy the music to love, live and celebrate life.

Ford Celebrated It’s raining lolas 5 March, 2015, Summit Hotel Women’s Special Week 8 March, Kathmandu A lavish Holi party was organized by Royal In its quest to Go Further, Ford launched the Women’s Events at the Summit Special Week on the remarkable occassion of Women’s Hotel, Sanepa. The main Day. This initiative aimed to not only salute the women highlight of the event was drivers but also encourage more women into driving. All walk-in women customers, test drivers, and those who the helicopter shower of wanted to get their vehicles valuated were presented lolas. As revelers splashed with a special gift. Additionally, a special Women’s water on each other, they Week badge was also distributed to all customers enjoyed some party music and staff. GO Ford Team – men and women wore the played by the DJ. This is badge to acknowledge that they are equal partners in the third year that Royal acknowledging equality and dignity for women. Events organized Holi The Real Temple Run party in town. 7 March, Swayambhu Nath Temple Nepal Share (Nyano Sansar) and Trail Running Nepal, in association with Federation of Swayambhu Management and I dream of a car Conservation(FSMC), organized The Temple Run in Swayambhu. Sinamangal, 6 March La.lit on the Art Up to 300 runners ran the 300m race to the top of the famous hill. The finish was at the last step on the hill. Top three men and United Traders Syndicate Pvt. Ltd, a subsidiary of Market The Yellow House, Jhamsikhel, women received prizes from Red Fox. The main objective of this Vaidya’s Organization of Industries and Trading 7 March event was to inspire children and adults to exercise. Houses organized ‘Toyota Dream a Car Art Contest’. This year, students below the age of 15 from more The fourth volume of than 30 schools participated in the event under La.lit, a literary magazine, three categories. Creators of nine best works of was unveiled at this Third Nepali 3: And we art (three from each age category) were chosen as month’s Art Market. Rabi have a winner... winners. The best painting from each category was Thapa, the editor of the 6 March, Army Officers Club awarded with a cash prize and a certificate. Toyota magazine, said he was Pratap Lama has won the final of Motors Corporation, Japan, organizes the program Season 3 of Coca-Cola Nepali Tara. confused whether the At a gala grand finale at the Army in 77 countries of the world, including Nepal. The launch program befitted Officers’ Club, Bhadrakali the best artworks from all over the world compete in winners of the previous seasons the market. Thapa also of the show Dipak Limbu and an international contest in Japan every year. Santosh Lama handed over the briefed the audience on trophy to Lama. The winner of the next volume, which is Coca-Cola Nepali Tara 3 gets a Bajaj Discover motorcycle, to be about the visual arts. along with a purse of He informed that the next Rs.250,000. He also gets to sing three songs as Coca-Cola issue will be collaboration Nepali Tara, and to produce as between La.Lit and Photo. many music videos. The winner also gets to sing at a concert in Circle. Contributors for Seoul, South Korea. Lama also this issue Itisha Giri and won a trip to Australia, sponsored by Digital Key Productions. The Wayne Amtzis recited winner, and the runner-up of the few of their verses while show, get to go to London on a trip sponsored by 3rd Eye UK. The Anbika Giri read out an top five contestants receive S5.1, excerpt from her book. Gionee’s slimmest phone. 15

HH BajaNepj laual’snch feirss Dtis Acondrveorid 150 On tewins smart phone launched Hansraj Hulaschand and Company Pvt.Ltd. has with a host of other features many of which are launched two completely new offerings from a first within this category. The duo promises to Bazaar the Discover stable – the Discover 150F (with deliver an unbeatable combination with 14.5 PS Large Half Fairing) & the Discover 150S (with power & 72 kmpl mileage. Discover 150 F (Half Standard Fairing). These Discover 150 bikes Fairing) will be available at a price point of Rs 1, BoK organizes AGM break away from the current basic bikes available 97, 900/- and Discover 150 S (Standard Fairing) The 20th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Bank of Kathmandu in the market to give the consumer an exciting will be available at a price of Rs 1,90,900/-. Ltd. was held in Kathmandu. Chairman of the Bank Satya Narayan and energizing ride. The new Discover twins, Both the options will be available in 4 colors – Manandhar stated that the bank generated and operating profit of besides offering an unbeatable combination of dark blue, wine red, ebony black& dark bottle Rs.363 million, and a net profit of Rs.254.4 million in the fiscal. The excellent power and great mileage, is also loaded green. bank has over 50 branches, 57 ATMs and seven extension counters.

Huawei launches smartwatch Go Xtreme with Hero Chinese mobile phonemaker Huawei launched its first smartwatch in Nepal General Marketing Pvt. Ltd. has unveiled the all new Hero Xtreme Sports for the Huawei wearable familym at the Mobile World Congress, 2015 young bike enthusiasts. The bike with 15.4 PS power and sharp headlamps has in Barcelona. The watch comes with a 1.4-inch full circle Amoled display, scratch-proof sapphire crystal lens, cold-forged stainless a ‘street fighter’ look. It has wider handle bars and other bikes in its class, and steel frame, and a built-in heart rate monitor. It also has Gyroscope+ is equipped with front and rear disc brakes. Hero Xtreme Sports comes with LED accelerometer, PPG, barometer and vibration motor sensor. Along tail light and a broader tire suited for slippery roads. The bike is available in five with the Android wear, Huawei also unveiled a series of wearable devices, including the TalkBand B2, and the TalkBand N1 -- a perfect colors; Panther Black, Fiery Red, Mercuric Silver, Pyro Orange, and Black and Red, combination of bluetooth headset and health tracker. and is priced at Rs.221,500 (for single disc version) and Rs.230, 000 (for double disc version). The company is also providing an Xtreme Holiday Package to Pokhara and Kurintarto for 10 lucky customers. Price: 23882/-

Johnnie Walker’s Limited D.A.O. Lalitpur Regd. No.77-066/67 ECS Media Pvt. Ltd, Kupondole, Lalitpur, Nepal. 5011571. Edition launched No. 257,263, 512tht hFEBr Marchuar 2015y 2015 The Smarter Entertainment Weekly Johnnie Walker has launched its in Nepal. Publisher: ECS MEDIA Pvt. Ltd. Editor: Sunil Raj Shrestha Copy Editor: Vishal rai Director, Editorial & Marketing: Nripendra Karmacharya Sub-Editor: ASTHA JOSHI According to the company, the limited edition Sr. Manager, Editorial & Marketing: SUDEEP SHAKYA EditorialIn-house Cwriter:oordinator: giris Prah subedijwal LAl Manandhar Editorial Managers: Utsav Shakya, Sanjit Bhakta Pradhananga In-houseDesign Executive: writer: gi Srunilish subedi Maharjan is product is inspired by the ‘Art of Blending Legal Advisor: Hira Regmi DesignAssistant Executive: Design Executive: Sunil Mahar Rabi Maharjan jan, Samir Raj Tamrakar ADesignssistant A ssistants:Design Executive: Naraya Rna Maharbi Maharjanja, nS,udip Sami Maharr Raj Tajamnrakar -- a craft that is unique to Johnnie Walker’. DesignManager, Assistants: Photography: Nara Dayasnh MaharB. Maharjanj,a Snudip Maharjan Color Separation & Printed at: Manager,Assistant ManagerPhotography:, Photography: Dash B. MaharHari Maharjan jan WordScape The Printer Pvt. Ltd. It is also a visual celebration of the hidden APhotographers:ssistant Manager Pra,jw Photography:al maharj aHnar, Ri aMaharbindraj aPran japati, Bhaisepati, Lalitpur Photographers:Umesh basnet Pra, Yjwogendal mraahar Maharjan, jRaanbind, Amraar PraRai japati, depths of an extraordinary whiskey, it said. It is 5590306, 5591112 Distributor: Kasthamandap UBusinessmesh b Developmentasnet, Yogend Head:ra MaharAngirajasn Ma, Amnaarnd Rharai Distribution Pvt. Ltd. 424.7241 BusinessAssistant DevelopmentManager, Business Head: Development: Angiras Ma Vinnaynd Raharjkarnikar a true expression for those who possess depth ASssr. Executive,istant Manager, Business Business Development: Development: Manis Vinha aym Ratyjkaarnikar Disclaimer SAr.ssistant, Executive, Business Business Development: Development: Ma Manisnish hMa anmaandtyahar of character and seek rare experiences. The Details of the event listings are accurate as per information received before the date the Assistant,d Enquiries: Business sales@fridayweekly Development:.com.np Manis h Manandhar weekly goes for printing. Fr!day is not responsible for any changes. ASr.d Enquiries:Executive, sales@fridayweeklyProduction & Distribution:.com.np Bikram shrestha Johnnie Walker Blue Label Limited Edition 2015 Columnists are entitled to their own views and opinions. They do not necessarily reflect Sr.Subscription Executive, & Production Distribution & CDistribution:oordinator: SBujikaran ms hrshrestesthaha the views and opinions of ECS Media and the organization cannot be held liable for the Subscription & Distribution Coordinator: Sujan shrestha same. Readers are encouraged to write to us at [email protected] Official Digital Marketing Partner - ADS MARKET PVT. LTD [4218069]

will be available through exclusive retailers. Official Digital Marketing Partner - ADS MARKET PVT. LTD [4218069] www.facebook.com/fridayweekly Our sister publications Partylines 16 Chitter - chatter Heard at Events “How can we be happy when women are being abused and beaten by their husbands behind closed doors and are being sold as sex slaves?” Abhaya Subba, lead singer of the Abhaya and the Steam Injuns. “I don’t know if it suits us here because this is an art mart and we are a literary magazine. "Fifteen years ago I started But our next issue will be playing Gypsy Jazz on my own, about visual arts.” but it wasn't till much later when Rabi Thapa, editor of La-lit Magazine at the I got invited to play the music at Art Market at the Yellow House. an event organised by a foreign dignitary that I found the courage to play it in front of others." Hari Maharjan on his journey with Gypsy Jazz, Nepal Gypsy Jazz Festival 2015..

“Music for me is satisfaction.” Inap Raj Shrestha, band member of Cadenza, at the ‘Gypsy Jazz Festival Nepal 2015’ at Maan Naam Restaurant and Lounge bar. Hari Maharjan Rabi Thapa

Kickstart//Kathmandu for me 18 Kathmandu

Mandala Theatre in for Me Anamnagar is where The capital keeps getting more vibrant every passing day, its Dayahang Rai’s heart lies. inhabitants making the city move at its own unique pace. A This is where he gets growing populace means a greater choice of entertainment. to meet his friends and In search of new and happening places around town, colleagues and where Fr!day asked a group of prominent Kathmanduites about new ideas for projects their favorite junctions in the city. This is what we found come to light. out... Dayahang Rai, Actor

Compiled by Prajwal lal Manandhar

Suraj Singh Thakuri, TV personality TV personality Suraj Singh Thakuri says that his craving for momos makes him drive to Le Trio in Jawlakhel regularly. Besides that, Kollywood Planet Fitness Centre and the Summit Hotel are some other places where he loves to spend time.

Sadichha Shrestha, Miss Nepal 2010 Former Miss Nepal Sadichha Shrestha prefers Red Mud Café, Thapathali as an Abhaya Subba, Singer appropriate place for lunch, Abhaya Subba likes visiting Dechenling as well as Village Café, Garden Restaurant regularly. Despite the Pulchowk, which she lavish pricing, she enjoys going there visits frequently for its with friends and family for the delicious authentic Newari food, Bhutanese cuisine the place offers. especially yomaris. Happy Mama’s Fitness Service is also one of her favorite hangouts.

Manny’s Eatery and Tapas Bar in Jawlakhel has mouthwatering pork chops, a huge parking space, beautiful seating arrangements, and also supports and promotes art endeavors, all of which add up to make it Chirag Bangdel’s favorite spot. Chirag Bangdel, Radio Host/ Artist 19

Garden of Yogeshwar Amatya, Singer Yogeshwar Amatya likes going to G G Dreams is Machaan in Jhamsikhel for the fine Subexya Bhadel’s whiskies the place has to offer, and also for the fact that he gets to meet like- favorite hangout. minded people. He has had far too many She considers great memories there to pick out just one. the place perfect for relaxing with a book, leaving behind all the stress from work. One of her favorite memories of Garden of Dreams is the time when squirrels climbed all over her. Subexya Bhadel, Fashion designer

The love for curry made with local chicken makes Nischal Basnet Nisha Adhikari, Actor frequently visit Bhoteshwor, a place near Gokarna. There, Nischal, Nisha Adhikari frequently visits Attic along with a few friends, including Bar, Tangal (previously in Lazimpat) Dayahang Rai, emptied all the food in and Reef Restaurant and Lounge Bar, the restaurant at one time. Thamel, for their delicacies. Besides food, she considers these places perfect for Nischal Basnet, Director/Actor partying and gathering with friends.

Robin Tamang, Singer Rocker (and actor) Robin Tamang likes to pop in at House of Music and Reggae Bar, both located in Thamel, as both places have a lot to offer besides food, live bands for instance. Kickstart//Kathmandu for me 20

Reeta Manandhar, Artist Reeta Manandhar considers Nagarkot her favorite place to get away from the city. Moreover, she adds that being a nature nut, the atmosphere of the hill town provides her inspiration and encourages her to pursue her artwork. Anjil Maskey, Photographer Anjil Maskey opts for Embassy Restaurant and Bar, Panipokhari for the food and service it provides. The ambience there makes it just the right place for gatherings with his close ones. Anjil even celebrated his birthday at Embassy.

The man behind the wickets, Subash Khakurel, likes Station Lazimpat Cafe and Bar for its friendly ambience, and also for the clean and nicely prepared food. Also, as Hari Bansha Acharya, Actor it turns out, he met his Hari Bansha Acharya has a special girlfriend for the first place in his heart for his ancestral home in Sankhu, Panauti. time at Station. According to him, the place is full Subash Prasad Khakurel of childhood memories. And not to Wicketkeeper, Nepali Cricket Team forget, Mira Care Centre, a child- care center built in the memory of his departed wife, which is being built in Sankhu as well.

Veteran actor Bhuwan KC, on the other hand, prefers Pokhara over Kathmandu because of its view of the beautiful mountain ranges, lakes, and touristic settings. Oh well.

Bhuwan KC Actor BAJAJ

Issue 263 | 12 March enterta nment

Contents

1Shopping Spree Best • Spring Time: Local Designers’ Galore Big Buys • Dazzling New Ciaz • Racing Instincts:

EEK Aprilia • Treasures of Life: Latest Jewelry designs W What betterEv reason to celebratee than an rAnniversary, especially the fifth one? We bring forward a motley collection of earthly pleasures for you to join in on the week-long revelry. Indulgence • Fill up the Tankard2 • Bourbon Talk • A Fantastic Cuisine into European Cuisine • Chitchat under the Bun: Casts of Zhingrana try burgers from Capital Grill • A Day with the Chef • Foodist’s Guide

Closing Act 3• A Hidden Retreat: Chhaimale Resort • Perched on Shaky Ground: Stories from Sunkoshi • A Lone Traveler • KTM Hikes • Jewels of China’s East

On the cover Art work by Artlab, an integral part of Kathmandu’s blossoming alternative culture, graces Fr!day’s anniversary cover. Entertainment//Shopping Spree 24

SpIt’s March, andrin this hemisphere is finallyg tilting T towardsI MEthe sun—which meaning it’s time to wrap up your jackets and jumpers, and bring out those shorts and tees. So, to start-off with the Best Week Ever stacking up your cupboard with the latest summer wears is a no brainer. Here are some select new designs from some our most loved Nepali designers.

Text by REBEECA SHRESTHA

1. Golden laced gown: The Model: Aaruni Waiba golden gown was recently showcased in Hongkong; Tenzin Tseten Bhutia interestingly this piece was A glimpse of his collection is enough to determine his inclination recreated for memorabilia. towards elegance. He plays with a varying palette of colors This laced gown has a which makes his work even more distinct. Often an assimilation regal feel to it and its of culture and style, his perseverance can be seen through his sophistication and grace immaculately polished work. knows no bounds. This dreamy gown specially emphasizes on the waistline with a golden ribbon. The Spring tip from Tenzin: This spring adorn floor-length gown is a yourself in loads of light hues that compliment pleasurable sight and also showcases the designer’s your skin. Basically, pastel colors are the way craft and skills. Its mermaid to go. Also you should feel comfortable in it silhoutte will definitely show those carved out curves. along with being in touch with your personality.

2. Animal printed gown: The animal printed gown is a 3. Black gown: This 4. Red cocktail dress: It is powerful potrayal of a strong black cutout gown is no news as the man himself personality. It takes on a more from Tenzin’s Christmas explains that women look exotic and wild adventure for collection. The color amazing in red. The sequined the subtly dressed. It flaunts black is sultry and looks cocktail dress is a perky and all the qualities in a vivacious so feminine with the flirty look to carry off. It is woman. The dominating long slit and the cutout basically for those in-door ensemble is also for the back. The winter apparel events as you can layer a chillier weather and the dress is flawlessly embellished jacket or outer on top. The itself quenches the need to with red stones, making intense color red is definitely accesorize. it more interesting. going to sound off sirens.

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1. Orange one shoulder dress: This dress serves Model: Roopal Singh the purpose of being modest as well as revealing with the one Rasna Shrestha shoulder design. The Rasna Shrestha, one of the young recognized designer has definitely midi length brings the crossed paths with success. A series of collections from casuals to ethnic air of sophistication wears, chiffon blouses to even men’s shirts. The ‘Joy Glam Hunt’ brought and feminism. Its floral forth a flurry of Shrestha’s summer collection into the limelight. Her printed material blends designs play well with color and vibrancy. All about floral prints and soft well with the classic hues, her collection is aptly named ‘Nature of Joy’. touch and can always be given a modern twist with heels and layering. 3. Pink Midi dress: The Rasna’s Spring tip: This printed chiffon midi dress is synonymous to summer you need to indulge 2. Maxi dress: The floor elegance and grace. Its in color and zest with a lot of length maxi dress also flowy silhouette brings shares the same floral the beauty in the midi floral printsand abstract prints. print chiffon. It’s one dress. The calf length sided slit adds that extra demands more whereas oomph, and to match the ebb and flow of the 4. Green fitted skirt: The green hues with soft floral that confidence, pair it light chiffon goes well prints definitely have the aesthics The knee-length with some killer heels with the simple heels. well fitting dress with knife pleats are not only and accessories. The You can always layer it up big in fullness but also big in style. It may be slim fit will definitely with a blazer or an over appropriate for day or evening wear in accordance boast your curves. coat for the outdoors. with your choice of accessories and heels.

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1 Model: Ashmita Shrestha

Bina Ghale Bina Ghale, whose designs are beautifully crafted into sheer elegance has been in the prominence for quite some time. Her line- Gabi doesn’t focus only on high end designer wear, rather it attempts to bring people from all walks of life together. Her fashion line has different sections–Gabi Basic, Gabi Men, Gabi Sports, Gabi Tradition with much more to look forward to.

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2 5 1. Patterned jogger pants with a flowy tank top: This look pulls out your street style with precision. Rock the jogger pants this spring with nude heels or flat ballet shoes and layer it with a simple button down cardigan. The attire as a whole is comparatively more versatile as you can show up to work and later join in on a party with an addition of some accessories.

2. Flared pants and a patterened shirt: As the song goes, groove is in the heart, but it’s also in a pair of ‘70s-esque flare pants. Flared pants are very flattering and comfortable to start with. The retro vibes can still be spread at work with a black blazer on top. The patterned shirt with sheer shoulders and collar chains exceptionally brings an interesting element to play. You may tone down the accessories or heavily accentuate them, as you please.

3. Orange blouse with long pencil skirt: This bright orange outfit is definitely pushing the subtleties. The preppy blouse glows of confidence and can be paired with flared pants to single handedly steal attention. The sequined pencil skirt is a glittery affair to the eyes; its golden, orange hues with a touch of blue is appropriately paired with nude heels. This outfit is flexible for you to pull off a layered look with a knee- length coat.

4. Blue laced dress: The royal blue dress with a combination of lacy black sleeves can be a style statement as you don’t even have to over do your accessories. It is perfectly elegant and graceful for those formal events and can always be paired with a black blazer. A choker neckpiece and toned down shoes would certainly do the trick.

5. Black cropped top and full skirt: This exquisite sheer cropped top needs a lot of smart layering and can steer your outfit to sexy or sophisticated. Keep the lacy black top relaxed and floaty. The full net skirt is a wonderful combination of jade green and black which further moulds the chic outfit. A pair of black pumps or sandals and a chain neck piece would be enough to seal the deal.

Entertainment//Big Buy 28

Necklace Meenakari Gold- Gold Necklace 32.09 grams Treasures Gold- 78.92 grams Stone- 1.09 grams for Life Weddings are about the bride and groom, and almost always jewelry comes in second. Fr!day has brought to you a range of jewelry designs from our own local Earring with Ruby stone jewelry stores. Go through this section and pick out Gold- 11.49 Diamond Ring with Solitaire grams Solitaire- 0.50 Carat some timeless pieces or gorgeous modern gems for the Stone- 2.03 Diamond- 0.51 Carat grams fulfillment of your crucial needs. Gold- 3.98 grams

Text by Rebecca Shrestha Ramleela Emerald Drop: Gold- 15.60 grams Emerald Shree Om Jewellers stone- 9.45 grams Catch up with your mum’s traditional designs and blend it Diamond Ring with novelty and change. These with Kynite ethnic designs from Shree Om are Diamond- 2.40 Carat beautifully crafted with gold and Kynite- 5.66 Carat Emerald Set other precious gems. It incorporates Gold- 11.78 grams Emerald- 9.58 Carat these designs focusing mainly Diamond- 7.56 Carat on wedding jewelry and classic Gold- 44.752 grams ornaments. Studded with diamonds, pearls and rubies they also have a range of colored peacock designs.

Diamond Pendant Set Earring (Ramleela Design) White Gold Chain- Stones (Pearl,Kundan, 2.78 Carat Golden Necklace Minakari)- 6.72 Pendant: Diamond- Stone (ruby)- Gold- 24.06 grams 4.64 Carat, Gold- 5.29 grams 13.852 grams Gold- 47.64 net wt

Diamond Necklace Diamond- 15.16 Carat Gold Earring Gold- 50.568 grams Earring (Ramleela Earrings Stone (Ruby)- Diamond Earring design) Diamond- 4.23 grams Diamond- 6.11 Carat Stone (pearl, rose 3.12 Carat, Gold- 16.62 Gold- 25.018 grams muga): 3.09 grams Gold- 11.826 grams Gold: 16.86 grams grams

Diamond Ring with Coral Coral- 18.54 Carat Diamond- Ranihar 2.73 Carat Earring (Ramleela Stones (Minakari, Gold- 14.750 Gold Bangle design) Ruby, Zircon)- grams Meenakari Gold- Stones (pearl, zircon, 3.17 grams 64.11 grams ruby)-4.37 grams Gold- 71.69 Stone- 2.28 grams Gold- 26.60 grams grams Asri Jewelers Asri Jewelers have their divine collection of solitaires and traditional gold, ready to cater to your everyday needs. They boast of precious diamond sets, envious green Ruby Pendant/ emerald sets and glorious Earring Earring Brooch with Pearl red rubies to start with. Gold- 22.55 grams Stones Diamond- 4.06 Carat Their never ending range Zet Stoneand Polki (Minakari,Ruby, Gold- 27.54 grams of traditional jewelry will Diamond- 8.53 Zircon)- 2.05 grams Ruby- 8.56 grams make you crave for those grams Gold- 34.30 grams Pearl- 5 grams Meenakari designs.

Entertainment//Big Buys 30 Dazzling ew N

Elegent and stylish Ciaz is the new full-sized family sedan from Maruti Suzuki Ciazthat comes with a lot of promise. Text by Kapil phuyal 31

It is the longest car in the mid-sized segment with exceptional Specification Engine wheelbase, providing a spacious interior for the passengers in Rear armrest 1 The Ciaz has a 1.4 the rear seat along with comfortable space in the front. liter engine which produces 4 The foldable rear armrest 130NM@4000RPM. positioned in the center of the rear seat allows the rear ull-sized family sedan with comfortable space in the front. An overview of its basic specifications—it is a 2WD, has passengers to have a comfortable is a highly contested The interior of the sedan has been 5-speed manual transmission stay. The armrest also comes with segment among auto designed for luxury and comfort for gearbox, ventilated discs for twin cup holders. Additionally, the rear seat is spacious and has manufacturers, with the passengers. Taking condition rear braking and McPherson Strut and Torsion Beam a comfortable leg room along many of the market of the streets of Kathmandu into suspensions. with head space. Similarly, the leaders falling in this consideration, the higher ground front arm-rest utility box attached segment. And as a part of this clearance of Ciaz is a definite plus. to the rear a/c vents which have F Rear A/C vents with pen and visiting card holders. particular segment, Maruti Suzuki Likewise, the interior of Ciaz 2 socket launched Ciaz last year in India. is equipped with advanced and The sedan is as much for The elegant and stylish Ciaz has necessary features. For instance, the the back seaters’ as it for Ciaz from the front been introduced in Nepal by concealed console box with anti- the front seaters—the A/C 5 The elegant front of the vents in the rear helps Ciaz comprises of a large hood CG MotoCorp, the authorized skidding mat in the front has enough maintain the balance in with a neatly designed 4-slat distributor of Maruti Suzuki cars in space for your personal belongings. comfort throughout the chrome grill and the Suzuki logo Nepal. Ciaz is the third mid-sized The interior has been made spacious vehicle. It is also equipped in it. The stylish bumper in the with a 12V accessory socket front with comes with fog lamps sedan from Maruti Suzuki, following on both front and rear. In addition to where you can charge your and above it are the stretched SX4 and Baleno. In comparison the ample space inside, the car also cell phones. headlamps with projector lamps. to the previous launches, the Ciaz features an astounding 510 liter boot has more features for comfort space which has an electromagnetic ZXI Front dashboard along with a powerful engine and latch. The Ciaz has a 1.4 liter engine 6 Ciaz ZXI consists additional 3 The front dashboard features, including camera sophisticated appearance. that provides a 20kmpl mileage, and of the sedan has equipped assisted reverse parking and The exterior of the Ciaz is the fuel tank has the capacity to hold with all necessary features. keyless push button start/stop completed with sharp edges, 43 liters of petrol. Furthermore, the The concealed console box system. This series also comes in the center can hold your with personal reading lamp for trendy headlamps and stylishly overall design of the vehicle provides essentials like cell phones, the rear passengers. Additionally, stretched tail lamps, giving it a Ciaz a smooth driving experience wallets, and keys. It also has the steering has also been made classy appearance. It is the longest with impeccable handling. an AUX and USB input along drive friendly with mounted audio with a 12V accessory socket. and calling controls. Likewise, the car in the mid-sized segment Ciaz comes in seven attractive The console also comes with a ZXI also has an overhead console with exceptional wheelbase, colors and the price range starts twin cup holder. Furthermore, with sunglass holders. It also has providing a spacious interior for at Rs.32.99 lakhs onwards (VXI the door bottler holders can additional safety featurea, such hold a 1 liter bottle along with as airbags and ABS. the passengers in the rear seat along Rs.37.99 lakhs). A4 size documents. Entertainment//Big Buy 32 Instincts Racing A new entrant joining the flank of the local biking groups - Aprilia, the new Italian in town Aprilia. Text by Kapil Phuyal

prilia, a marque owned night riding. TheL ED side lights by Piaggio, has been and rear lights are another safety manufacturing smaller measure, in that they make the cc scooters and bikes bike more visible for other riders. with ideas gained from Additionally, there’s also a wider years of producing and longer grab handle that makes Aracing motorcyles. The Italian sitting easer and safer for those company is really popular at the riding pillion. Superbike World Championship The TE X 150 is a genuinely largely due to its highly appreciated crafted all-terrain motorcycle. 1000cc V4 RSV4 model. The brand Although most of the components will now be hitting Nepali streets of the ETX and STX are the same, courtesy JNJ International (P) Ltd., the ETX has the ability to go the authorized distributor and off-road as well. The enduro tires importer of Aprilia in Nepal. To be and all-terrain frame, with upside introduced first are the company’s down forks, help the rider stay lower cc bikes – the STX 150 and comfortable on off-road trials. The ETX 150. These smaller models ETX has a high resistance steel will be followed by higher cc frame with an additional single bar motorcycles like the Shiver Sport handle, hand guards, forked rims, 750 ABS and Dorsoduro 150 ABS in and lifted front mudguards. the near future. Similarly, both the STX and ETX The TS X 150 is a road-racing models have similar engines with model that has been designed in a fuel capacity of 18 liters and a a sporty and aggressive manner whooping mileage of 50kmpl. Both for road riding compatibility. It the bikes have analog and digital is equipped with a 149cc 4-stroke instrument panels that display the Euro 3 engine. The motorcycle basic components with additional has a high resistance frame that gear indicators. Furthermore, both supports a proper riding stance for the bikes have 17-inch wheels that the comfort of the rider. The seats provide excellent balance while are really comfortable for longer riding on normal or off-road trials. rides as well, and the sophisticated The color options for both the design of the motorcycle gives it an models are white, red, and black. attractive appearance. Likewise, the The TS X 150 comes at Rs.2,79,000 front headlights with dual reflection while the ETX can be purchased are a proper safety measure for for Rs.3,03,000. 33

Handle guard and side stand The additional feature in the ETX is the handle guard that protects your clutch and brake levers and your hands as well. The side-stand, a safety measure, is also a new feature. The stand automatically unlocks itself whenever you take a riding stance.

Speedometer (instrument panel) The hi-tech digital and analog instrument panels on both bikes are the same. The panel also has a LCD display that puts on view all the information that you need, including what gear you are on.

Tires The Aprilia STX has 90/90 tires on the front and 110/80 at the rear. Likewise, the ETX has 3.00/17 enduro tires on the front and 3.50/17 at the rear. The tires on the STX have a great grip on proper roads and the ETX has well- gripped off-road tires for all-terrain purposes. Both the bikes have similar wheel sizes; the STX has 17-inch alloy wheels whereas the ETX has 17-inch spoked wheels.

Seats Although the seats on both the bikes look similar, they differ in comfort while riding on normal roads and all-terrain Disc Brake landscapes. The elongated The STX has a 240mm front disc seats on both are comfortable brake while the ETX has a 260mm and compatible for longer daisy design disc. Both the bikes rides and off-road trails. have 104mm rear drum brakes.

Contact information 22 Mandev Marg, Ward #5, Sanogaucharan, Kathmandu, Nepal Tel: 977-1-4446271 Jiben M. Shrestha; Managing Director Entertainment//Indulgence 34 A fantastic gateway into European cuisine Le Sherpa, tucked away from the din of the city, serves some of the best European dishes in Kathmandu.

Text by Sanam Chitrakar

taken orders of at least half of the menu!” he said. He had been there for over five years. Food tastes the same whether you order vegetables or meat as most Nepali eateries have limited sauce bases. More alarmingly, it destroys the basic character of the star ingredients due to the heavy application of spices. This is what happens when restaurants try to incorporate everything in their menu. It creates pressure in the kitchen, impacting overall food service and quality. Le Sherpa, on the other hand, has concentrated on serving rich European cuisines. It may be a disappointment for momo and chow- mien crazy Nepalis, but it’s a good chance to savor great European food. Le Sherpa’s base ingredients are sourced from organic farms around the Valley, with supplies coming in every day. This was another reason ith the diversity why I appreciated the place even of Kathmandu’s more. eating-out The ‘Soup of the day’ was a great options increasing entrée, a green treat with a drizzle of every day, Le fresh cream sided by French white ShWerpa stands tall as another jewel bread. of European delights. Another The zucchini, green peas, and great addition to the mushrooming onion, sautéed and blended, created high-end restaurants around the the need for a bite of bread for a Lainchaur-Panipokhari stretch, it contrasting texture. However, the is placed in a well-chosen location chewy room-temperature white amongst diplomatic missions, bread was a mismatch and I ordered hotels, and corporate offices. More some warm and crusty whole grain importantly, it provides a wonderful bread instead. I prefer soup with change for those wanting to explore the bread lightly heated, something European tastes. that crumbles with a single bite. The Having taken up cooking as a contrasting texture escalates the dish’s hobby years ago, I learnt how to cook characteristics even more. “Nepali style”. I clearly remember Then arrived the Smoked Salmon that a wide variation of spices was better. I chose the main dining hall the excellent service standards. The salad on a bed of mixed greens, hard to come by when I was young. beneath the high roof. attendants had accommodating topped with thinly sliced Parmesan Unlike today, buff choila used to be The ambience was soothing with body languages, something that is cheese. We drizzled it with extra- mild, with three to five spices letting a subtle use of earth-toned warm absolutely vital for good eateries. virgin olive oil that enhanced its the meat mark its prominence. That colors. The floor space was compact Skimming through the menu, I taste. The sharp tasting racquet salad is the biggest difference between but the seating was commodiously was impressed at first sight. It was stole the show with every bite but the current Nepali cooking and the arranged. The top of the outdoor unconventional and super-specialized aftertaste belonged to the Parmesan European style. Unlike most oriental seating area was high, resulting in compared to general Nepali eateries. cheese. dishes, European cuisines impress me excellent natural lighting. The height I’ll take this opportunity to mention I enjoyed the great Parmesan because of the minimal use of spices, of the ceiling made the area appear an incident that took place when I aftertaste; it was creamy and it got which help its star ingredients shine. even more spacious. visited a popular tandoori restaurant you ready for the next bite of the As I passed the neat and large As the visit was pre-informed, in Putalisadak. While there, out of salad. I love cheese, so I prefer parking space, Le Sherpa’s fantastic it was not possible to judge the sheer boredom, I started to count cheese with every bite. Again, the open courtyard looked like a standard of the service. The the items on the menu, by the end of contrasting texture of crunchy greens, tempting place to dine. Hidden attendants treated us generously. I which I had managed to add together silky salmon, and delicate cheese amidst the chaotic and heavily observed the services rendered to over 200 dishes! Curious about the made the dish brilliant. urbanized city, the courtyard is the Chinese guests across our table, ordering patterns of the guests, I The salmon was unevenly cut, expansive enough to make you feel which somehow allowed me to mark spoke to the attendant. “I have never which slightly disturbed its texture. 35

This is something Japanese and Another dish that impressed me French chefs rarely fail at. This high was the Poached Rabbit Saddle, level of precision marks a culinary which came on a bed of mashed artist from the two great food potatoes with sautéed green and nations. mustard cream. The minced saddle I have noticed that Nepalis rarely wrapped with minimal herbs prefer Salmon, probably because and poached made the texture of its raw flavor. However, I love somehow similar to chicken. The how smoked salmon melts away. I dryness of the saddle was reduced wondered about what the normal by the accompanying mashed Nepali household cook would do potato and creamy mustard sauce. with the fish. They would probably The mustard cream supported apply turmeric and apply heaps of the plain food with a required masala, thus killing its natural smell. pungency. I was pleasantly The Trout Fillet stole the show. surprised when I found out that The de-boned trout fillet, topped with the mustard sauce was prepared lemon, towered over a bed of rich from scratch, something that mashed potatoes. The presentation prompted me to try it myself. It looked even more tempting as it was was thus no wonder that the taste islanded by a sauce of green parsley, wasn’t as vinegary as your normal white wine, and trout bone. Needless imported sauce. to say, it was the best trout fish I The gala ended disappointingly have had in a long time. Again, the with the Vanilla Crème Brûlée. The minimal use of spices allowed me turn off was the thick burnt crust to appreciate the fish further. The of granulated sugar. It created an skin was well cooked and it created awkward sugar crunch with every a complimenting texture with every bite. It could have been a great end bite. if they had topped it with sugar- Fearing I would ruin the dish, I dust rather than the granules. applied lime over one of the servings Instead, it created an undeserved separately. Thankfully, the decision thick crust that stole the crème to not squeeze the lime over the brûlée’s much deserved attention. entire dish turned out to be a smart Le Sherpa is a great place to one; doing so would have completely enjoy authentic European dishes. destroyed its ingenuity. The yellowish Although the price is on the higher lime was only meant for garnishing. side it is definitely a must visit While feasting on the fish, I thought for European food lovers and for about the cooking style of the those wanting to try the cuisine. restaurants that pepper the route to Trishuli a.k.a. the Trout Highway. (Sanam Chitrakar is a serial Honestly, all types of fish taste the entrepreneur and consultant. Though same when heavy doses of masala he has been a foodie ever since he remembers, he discovered a passion have been applied. for cooking in his late twenties) Entertainment//Indulgence 36

Bourbon,Bourbon no doubt, has worked as an inspiration for many Talks a party talk, but for this particular conversation, the whiskey is the inspiration and premise itself.

eing a whiskey drinker the market—Jim Beam, John Lee, management background and has is not an easy task—for Maker’s Mark, and Jack Daniels worked for Hotel Taj and Accor most, it’s already a (Tennessee)—and gave their verdict. Hotel. He has also worked as a feat to tell a bourbon business development manager from a scotch poured The panel at Green Line Centre. Currently, into a glass, let alone We have Ashin Shrestha, who’s he is the head of sales at Kaymu tell a bourbon from primarily a coffee enthusiast, and Nepal, an online shopping website. a Tennessee (we’ll has had several years of experience get into the details in a while). A in the restaurant business. But most Bdrink is as sophisticated as the importantly, Ashin knows his drinks But before we start, let’s get our classification straight. one holding the glass—the first and bourbon is his favorite kind. To be called a bourbon it has to be: impressions made, the nuances and Kushal Goyal recently opened subtleties in character, and the end his own takeaway restaurant called • Produced in the United States. note that reverberates. To talk about Café Kora in Boudha. He has • Made from a grain mixture that the nuances of one of our favorite been writing about food for four is at least 51% corn. types of whiskey—the American years, and is currently working • Aged in new, charred oak barrels. bourbon—Fr!day got three whiskey on a book on Nepali food. And • Distilled to no more than 80% alcohol by volume. enthusiasts to sit around a table and to add to his resumé, he has been • Entered into the barrel for aging hold an enlightened bourbon talk. running an online food magazine, at no more than 62.5% alcohol The trio tasted and talked about the KathmanduFoodies, for the past two by volume. four prominent bourbon brands years. • Bottled (like other whiskeys) with (including a Tennessee) available in Nitesh Sharma is from a hotel at least 40% alcohol. 37

Don’t let the labels confuse you: Bourbon, Straight Bourbon, and Tennessee Bourbon that has been aged for at least two years is called Straight Bourbon. However, terming Tennessee a bourbon is a move that some might consider controversial. Like Jack Daniels, all Tennessees are produced in the eponymous state, and refuse to label themselves as Bourbon whiskeys. Nonetheless, by all classification measures, Tennessee fulfills the needed criteria for being a bourbon and, in addition, undergoes an additional filtration step, Lincoln County Process, prior to aging.

Jim Beam Nikesh: So we are starting with Jim Beam, as I believe it is the youngest amongst the four—it looks paler than the rest. I’m sure you guys have noticed that as well. Ashin: Yes, it’s definitely the youngest. But let me warn you before hand, I might be a bit biased here. I love Jim Beam. But let’s see how it holds up against the rest. Nikesh: Sure. I like the way it looks, it shines beautifully—I’m really tempted. [A smooth swirl of the glass, a long sniff of the fragrance holding the glass John Lee Maker’s Mark up close, and a sip of Jim Beam] Nitesh: Now, John Lee is a bourbon Nitesh: Now this is a recent entry in mellow in comparison. It’s a bit lower Nikesh: There is a pronounced made by a French maker. Many the market. And it’s safe to say there in sweetness. people haven’t heard of it, and there is a certain expectation with this one. vanillin taste. Kushal: More of an orangy flavor I’d isn’t much you can find about it [Taking a sip of the drink] say. Ashin: I’d say vanilla and cream is a online. So it is definitely an underdog [Taking a sip] given, that’s something all bourbon among the four. Ashin: Wow, this is great. should have—it comes from the white [A sniff of the fragrance] Nitesh: There is a louder first note, oak charred barrel in which it is aged. Kushal: It definitely has more and it has a smoky finish. Ashin: Wow, the fragrance is quite spicy flavors to it. There is a distinct Kunal: I can sense a strong fruity musky fragrance at the start that strong. The vanillin taste is quite Kushal: I can taste a distinct rye flavor—green apple, I think. differentiates it from the rest. distinct. The sting really hits the flavor—it’s more on the citrusy side. Nikesh: Yes, it’s a very well rounded nose and it’s a good smell, it’s not a Nitesh: The flavors are very well drink. In terms of flavor, there is stench—you know what I mean. It Ashin: The intro is good—but there pronounced and the smell is less less of the spicy taste, and like Kunal has a well-pronounced aroma. isn’t much depth. pungent in comparison to the rest. said—there is a strong floral flavor Kushal: Speaking of the color of the It’s strong but it does not sting. This is that lingers on. drink, it’s definitely more amber and Nitesh: Yes, isn’t it. The after taste is beautiful. I reckon it will be meatier than Jim literally flat. Now the question I’d ask Ashin: Now let’s see how it holds up Beam. is—is it worth paying extra for a JD? after we add a few drops of water (just Ashin: And it has got a nice creamy [After tasting the drink] enough to remove the sting but not flavor to it. This is a very well- Kushal: In that context, I wouldn’t balanced drink. And the after taste is watery). It’ll help release the flavors of Kushal: Hmm. The taste runs flat hold it in such high regard. delicious. the drink. after the initial kick. It hits a high [Adding a few drops of water] Ashin: Yep, agreed. Kushal: Yes, let’s do that. note and after that there isn’t much of [After adding a few drops of water] an after taste. Nitesh: The taste gets even better. The caramel aroma, the toffee-like Pros and Cons Nitesh: Yes, surprisingly it lets down Nikesh: Yeah, the flavors really open features really get enhanced. on the initial promise. Jim Beam Con: up. Ashin: This is where the men Pros: Not much aftertaste Ashin: It speaks loud at the start but Pocket friendly Falls short on flavor Ashin: Yes, it’s beautiful. I’d say Jim differentiate themselves from the disappoints in execution. There is no Well-rounded drink Beam is more of an appetizer. You boys. Good for trying Maker’s Mark would want to start your night with after taste whatsoever. I’d recommend bourbon for the first Pros: a Jim Beam and move on to a fuller it as a party drink—you can get a Kunal: This is jazz. time Well-rounded drink Good way to start the Something an drink later on. The fruity flavor would bourbon that’s pocket friendly, and night Jack Daniels experienced bourbon really complement the appetizers. But people are not necessarily there to drinker would enjoy enjoy their whiskey. Nitesh: Now what we have here is Con: I don’t think it’s a main course drink. Not well-suited with Con: All in all, I’d say it’s an exceptional probably one of the most popular main course Pricey Kunal: To give a musical analogy, it’s option for starters who are looking drinks there is. This is a cult figure like listening to EDM that’s popular John Lee Jack to try bourbon for the first time—in in itself. Let’s see if it lives up to the in parties—you can’t have it alone or Pros: Daniel’s terms of price and how it delivers as a hype. Good initial while in quiet settings with friends Pro: bourbon whiskey. [Taking a sniff of the Tennessee] fragrance Fashionable when you are looking to enjoy the Affordable Kushal: drink. Nitesh: The smell is quite gentle and Good for parties and Con: Yes, I agree. making cocktails Pricey Entertainment//Indulgence 38

“He was a wise man who invented beer” – Plato (probably) The season of thirst approaches. It’s almost time to push away that brandy, and make a trip to the nearest bar or your friendly neighborhood alcohol store to sift out a few brews. Whether you want to stick with the trusty Tuborg or try out a new entrant like Tsingtao, there’s plenty for your beer belly. Here are a few hand picked by Fr!day.

Asahi Super Dry Guinness Probably the most well There’s nothing quite like known Japanese lager, the a pint of Guinness. The Asahi Super Dry is said thick, bitter stout is as to have transformed the iconic as it gets. They say modern beer industry in Guinness aids in digestion Japan. Despite originating and is beneficial for the in Nippon, it has a crisp, heart. But would it even dry taste that brings to matter if it were all just one mind (or the senses) some big marketing gimmick? northern German beers. Pair with: Good friends Serve in: Shaker Rs. 565 Rs.220

Chimay Duvel Liefmans Westmalle Corona Extra Hoegaarden A Chimay Brewery product is Duvel, the strong golden Liefmans, from Belgium, Another Trappist beer, Mexico’s number-one The village of Hoegaarden unique in that it’s one of just pale ale, is the Duvel is a radler that is a this one from the Abbey selling beer, Corona Extra in Belgium has been 10 worldwide that produces Moortgat Brewery’s mix of beer ripened on of Westmalle. This red is a pale lager that was brewing white beers since Trappist beer. What’s that? best-known product. cherries, blended with brown ale is malty and first brewed in 1925, the Middle Ages. To get Beer that’s brewed in Four generations of the strawberry, raspberry, fruity, dominated by the which, compared to the a taste of this age-old Trappist (a Catholic sect) Moortgat family have bilberry, and elderberry flavor of ripe bananas. other beverages in this tradition, just grab a monasteries. Come to think created the beer, and the juices. The result, to no article, isn’t really that Hoegaarden White Ale, of it, this double ale is one company is still family ones surprise, is fruity, Worth the celibacy? Ask long ago. It’s considered and don’t forget to try the of the very few brewed by owned. The word “Duvel” sweet, and refreshing. a monk. to be a summer beer and brewery’s popular wheat legitimate monks that can translates to “Devil” in Westmalle (Trappist with its clear appearance, beer while you’re at it. be bought in Kathmandu. Belgian, which ups its Serve in: Flute (the glass, Triple Ale, 9.5%, 33 certainly looks like it. cool quotient 666 times. not what Krishna used to cl): Rs.445-Rs.550 Flavored with: Coriander Will it be a religious serenade the ladies) Serve with: A wedge of and orange peel experience? Almost a How evil? 8.5% ABV Liefmans fruitesse lime or lemon Hoegaarden (White Ale, certainty. Duvel (Strong blonde (Fruit Ale, 4.2%, 25 cl): Rs.275 4.9 %, 25 cl): Rs.380- Chimay (Trappist double Ale, 8.5%, 33 cl): Rs.400-Rs.500 Rs.500 Ale, 7.0%, 33 cl): Rs.430- Rs.440-Rs.550 Rs.550 39

Tuborg Carlsberg Nepal Ice San Miguel Pale Gorkha Present in more than Carlsberg is a Danish Introduced by the Pilsen This pale lager, brewed 70 countries around the pilsner that’s found in Chaudhary Group, Nepal Ice Since being a part of by Gorkha Breweries, world, Tuborg is not just thousands of bars across is one of the more popular Gorkha Brewery’s portfolio, is said to embody the Denmark’s favorite beer, more than 140 countries. domestic beers. After this Filipino beer has “bold spirit of the heroic it’s probably Nepal’s too. The brand is synonymous arriving in 2008, two more rapidly gained popularity Nepali soldiers.” We’re Introduced into the country with sports, having versions entered the market by associating itself not quite sure about in 1990, this pilsner is a sponsored numerous major a few years later - Nepal with football and local the connection between bottom-fermented lager events over the years. If Ice Super Deluxe in 2011, festivities. Not too shabby the two, but don’t let that’s usually the first you’re all set to witness a and Nepal Ice Natura, the for a pale lager that traces that bother you. Gorkha name that comes up when sporting extravaganza, you country’s first all-barley its roots to a bunch of Beer’s popularity is well anyone mentions beer. know the occasion calls beer, in 2012. The pale Spanish monks in Manila. deserved. for a Carlsberg. lager is also exported to Pair with: Steaming momos Japan, the UK, Hong Kong, Appearance: Golden and Drink while listening Tuborg (650ml): Rs.220 Goes down: Smooth and the United States. clear to: Dharam Gurung’s Tuborg (500ml can): and easy San Miguel (650ml): ‘Gorkha Soldiers’ Rs.150 Carlsberg (650ml): Flavor: Sweet and malty Rs.200 (YouTube it!) Rs.265 Nepal Ice Strong Beer: San Miguel (500ml can): Gorkha (650ml): Carlsberg (350ml bottle): Rs.154 Rs.130 Rs.200 Rs.135 Nepal Ice Super Deluxe Carlsberg (350ml can): (650ml): Rs.195 Rs.135 Nepal Ice Natura (500ml): Rs.175

Budweiser Tsingtao Heineken Foster’s Lager Budweiser, “The King Those damn Germans love A lot of Dutch people Contrary to popular belief, of Beers,” entered the their beer. Word is, the first might refer to Heineken Fosters isn’t really that local market in 2010. thing they did when they as “ditch water” but the popular in Australia. It’s The beverage is brewed reached Quangao in China truth is the pale lager is the aggressive marketing with hops and barley was brew their own lager. the real deal - there’s none outside the continent malt, and up to 30% Okay, so we might have of that extra softening or that has contributed to rice. Opinions on the pale taken the liberty to tweak sweetening here. Staying the beer’s popularity. lager vary, but there’s a facts a bit with that one, true to its authentic Still, if you want a faux reason why it’s the largest but Tsingtao Beer does owe recipe, this is the way Australian experience, selling beer in the world. its existence to German beer is supposed to taste. Foster’s is the way to go. settlers. The premium lager Appearance: Nice pale Bitterness: Low is the largest consumer yellow Best drunk while: Wearing Budweiser (500 ml can): product exported from RS. 190 boardies and thongs Rs.275 China (that’s saying a lot), Rs.450 (330ml can): Rs. 195 and is made with fresh (300ml bottle): Rs. 195 spring water from Laoshan Mountain. Head: So white it glows Entertainment//Indulgence 40

Foodist’sAs the metropolis around us grows in every different way, a visibly distinctGuide aspect of Kathmandu that has exponentially evolved in recent years the variety of cuisines to indulge in. A commeration to this fact, here are some of the most popular dishes served at some of the leading eateries in town.

Curilo Curilo, located in the quiet lanes of Lainchaur, is a cozy cafe. It has a traditional décor blended aptly with modern interior designs. Its brick interior walls and lush orange is welcoming.

Ostrich Fagottini with Rocket Pesto and Parmesan Wafer The lean ostrich meat, exquisitely stuffed into pasta tastes is heavenly with the tangy rocket pesto. The pesto with a hint of parsley, basil and olive oil generously spread over the homemade pasta brings additional flavor to the dish. To top it off, the delicate parmesan wafer adds that extra décor. Price: Rs.350

Ai-la Restaurant Lounge Grilled Tenderloin, Mashed Potato with Béarnaise and Greens If you are around Kumaripati, you would want to visit Aila Restaurant Lounge, Kumaripati on the Thanks to its divine tenderness, the grilled beef tenderloin seventh floor ofT rimurti Bhawan. You won’t be disappointed because it’s three levels of fun. The makes it to the list as one of the supreme options to eat at Curilo. The well-marinated and seasoned meat blends first floor of Aila includes the lounge and dinner area where all the tables are in the shade of blue well with the béarnaise sauce, its flavor comprises clarified and bamboo that also house the pool table. The floor above it is the rooftop garden which offers butter, white wine, and herbs. The succulent steak is a a spectacular view of Patan and and right above it is the glass enclosed coffee space where you can gastronomical delight with the classic mashed potatoes simply enjoy the cool breeze with a book or catching up with your friends. The food menu at Aila and greens beside it. includes cultural cross-section of dishes including Nepali, Chinese and some conitinental choices Price: Rs.545, Lazimpat, 4005079 but if you want something different on special occasions, do ask for their special menu. 41

SuryaMoon Bistro SuryaMoon Bistro is a contemporary restaurant with an inviting outdoor terrace, dining and a lounge bar. It is located in the heart of the city, Jhochhen Tole. The menu offers a selection of Continental, Chinese, Indian and Nepali cuisine. The outdoor terrace offers guests a relaxed setting, and is the perfect place to enjoy an icy-cold beer.

Mexican Grilled Chicken The dish is prepared using marinated chicken, along with grilled chicken Sun café and Bar breast, prepared in olive oil. Mexican The Sun café and Bar located in the ever expanding food map sauce is then added to it. of Jhamsikhel has its own distinct feel. The café recollects our memories of traditional mud walls, its unique interiors with dim Price: Rs.445, Jhochhen, 4245096 and soft lighting spreads good vibes all over. Their extensive menu enlists various cuisines with breakfast available too.

Grilled Chicken in cream sherry sauce with mashed potatoes Supple chicken breast with a tinge of black pepper brings out the flavor of garlic and its seasoning. The grilled chicken served with mushroom cream sauce embraces the flavor of cream sherry, garlic, rosemary and black pepper with delight. With sherry sauce and mashed potatoes on the side it further unfolds a story on your taste buds. Price: Rs.350, Jhamsikhel, 5013574

Tamarind Restro & Bar, Sanepa Housed in a villa with striking exterior features, adjoined by a glass-house of a lounge and tables arranged around a lawn boasting cedar bonsais, it has a strikingly welcoming entrance. The ample parking space is a relief to the 4WD urban diners.

Rack of Lamb (available in Australian and Nepali variants) Each serving has two chops of grilled lamb that comes with sauteed medley of fresh vegetable in a garlic green pepper sauce. Price: Rs.1150, Jhamsikhel, 5522626, 5531988

The Entrance Café Located in Bakhundole, The Entrance Café serve Chinese, Continental, Indian and Italian cuisine. It takes bookings and is a Fish in Chinese Sauce good option for groups or parties. It also has takeaways. The whole fish in Chinese sauce is one of the food included in the special menu. If you are a fish lover you will not be disappointed because the Honey Braised Duck Bacchau fish is tender and is crunchy on the outside and the Chinese Pan-grilled with customized sauce made up of mustard, vinegar and honey, this main course is served with a side dish of sauce which includes tomato, honey and garlic with thinly sliced ginger vegetables. You can also choose between rice, spaghetti, pasta, garnish is delightful. noodles or mashed potatoes as a side dish. It is best suited with wine during afternoon and whiskey in the evening. Price: Rs.500, Trimurti Bhawan Kumaripati, 5008681 Price: Rs.699, Pulchowk, 5555617 Entertainment//Indulgence 42

ne’ Brasserie Tucked away in one of the corners of the corporate streets in Narayan Chaur, Ne Brasserie offers great Mediterranean food. Housed in an old Rana building, the ambience is soothing, while the greenery surrounding its property offers guests the much needed fresh of air in dusty Kathmandu.

Ne’ Burger One food that you have to try is the Ne’ Burger, aka the Big Daddy, an apt name considering the size of the burger. It is a meaty delight filled with minced pork patty, bacon, fried eggs, caramelized onions, cheese and mushroom, beautifully placed between a multigrain bun topped with sesame seeds. Price: Rs.555 Narayan Chour Marg, Naxal, 4422957

KFC One of the world’s most popular fast food chain specializes in the most scrumptious and crunchy fried chicken. The modern and convenient space is painted in their signature red and plastered with pictures of mouthwatering food. A visit to the favorite Tripureshwor or Durbar Marg chain is an indulgence for your guilty pleasure.

Fire and Ice Pizzeria Flaming Crunchy Chicken Hot & Saucy chicken In the hustle and bustle of central Thamel, Fire and Ice is one of the busiest KFC’s signature crunchy juicy chicken As the name suggests, this dish is a places to eat. The warm and cozy interiors of the space is a welcoming dipped and marinated in special sauce combination of sumptuous chicken will surely strike your likes. The tantalizing with the flair of garlic sauce. The sight for all. Its wooden, earthy feel and framed pictures hung on the wall chilli sprinkle entices and ignites your seasoning is a delicious blend with the definitely take you back to another era. But, the best part is the thin layered taste buds even before you taste them. tangy flavor of the sauce, and is even and generously garnished slices of wood fired pizza. better with the crucial juicy chicken. Price 2 pcs – Rs.279 Price L’Americano 4 pcs – Rs.535 4 pcs. – Rs.299 Who doesn’t love the simple and classic cheese and pepperoni? An instant 8 pcs (Reg. bucket) – Rs.1029 Durbarmarg, 4226287 and hit, its tangy sauce, wholesome mozzarella and pepperoni are deliciously 12 pcs ( Lrg. Bucket) – Rs.1499 Tripureshwor, 4229434 appetizing.

Price: Rs.620 Bawarchi The Restro Bar Bawarchi is synonymous with Katthi Rolls - that is what they started dishing out of Paesana their kitchen when they first started service. But today, the humble Indian street This is where the traditional pizza transitions with additions of sweet and food shares space on the wide menu with the Mughlai likes of Laziz Murgh Tikka and more than thirty variants of kebab, along with a dash of Tangera Chinese which succulent pineapple. The ginger and tomato sauce retain its strong tangy is a beautiful clash of Chinese and Bengali food, birthed in Calcutta. taste along with the distinct flavor of green pepper and oregano. The pieces of pineapples are finely placed with ham, generously covered with mozzarella—tastes delicious. Price: Rs.620, Thamel, 4250210

Bagaicha Restro & Bar Spread across a massive area with a two-story casual dining space, a segregated fine dining area, an outdoor space for drinks and barbecue, and a huge parking lot, the new eatery is a recluse at a couple of minutes’ walk from the main road in Kumaripati.

Whole steamed fish served with herbs and lemon If you are a looking for something tangy and spicy, and filling, then the whole steamed Chicken Tikka Masala pomfret is just for you. The dish is Chicken Biryani If you are up for some spicy chicken, prepared exclusively with organic The Biryani is one dish that will leave you then this is a dish you should definitely ingredients, and is served with salad. wanting for more. The dish is fulfilling, consider. And there is raita on the side. both four your eyes and your stomach. Price: Rs.1225 Price: Rs.480 Jawalakhel, 5548148 Price: Rs 475 Babermahal Revisited, 4263720

Entertainment//Indulgence 44

Embassy Restaurant and Bar Hunan Chicken Specially known for it’s interior design, Embassy Restaurant and bar, located opposite the Japanese Hunan chicken originates from the Xiang River Embassy at Pani Pokhari offers an inviting dining experience. In the middle of the city, yet away from the of China. Spicy in taste, the stir-fried dish is not city commotion, Embassy purveys comfortable atmosphere for all types of gathering. too hot. One of the most defining characteristics of Hunan Chicken is its thick sauce, which is typically made by whisking fresh ginger, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar and green onion. Embassy use a boneless chicken chunks, usually from the breast. Price: Rs.500 Panipokhari, 4424040, 4434597

California roll California roll, from non-traditional fusion cuisine, is a kind of sushi roll, usually made inside-out. It contains rice with papaya, avocado, vinegar and cucumber in the center, and is deep fried for texture. Price: Rs.570

Koyla Lounge and Bar Walter’s Mitho Mitho Restaurant and Beergarden Koyla Lounge is at the With ample indoor and outdoor seats and a diverse menu that comprises Continental, top-most floor of Kesha Asian and German delicacies, Walter’s Mitho Mitho stands out as an eatery for all Plaza, which offers occasions. The ambience is different from other restaurants in town as it has an open a spectacular and beer garden and a (self) bowling alley. undisturbed view of Kathmandu. The ambience too is very friendly and comfortable and smartly divided. You can opt to rest your legs at the comfy sofas or sit on the elevated platform that has low tables and enjoy the view plus the cool breeze. As it is located in the heart of the city, the and chilli paste that accompanies it has place makes for a great place to meet a dash more of chilli than mint, but it is just right for the sukuti. The citrusy salad up with friends or to have a great time Schweinshaxen (Pork Knuckles) Trout fish with family. dressing complements the spicy dry meat salsa, which would is great with a glass of Popularly known as German Roast Pork, The trout fish is the Himalayan River chilled beer. Schweinshaxen is a baby pork knuckle, Trout, which is marinated with fresh Sandeko Sukuti (dry meat salsa) treated with pickling salt marinated and herbs and then steamed, (or fried). It The Sandeko Sukuti has just the right roasted for about two hours and served is served with the chef’s special, butter crunchiness and the meat simply Price: Rs. 260 Kesha Plaza, Naya Sadak, 4242522 with red cabbage, potato dumplings and lemon sauce that enhances the sharp melts away in your mouth. The mint pork base sauce. The pork goes really flavor of the fish. well with the savory taste of the sauce along with a glass of white wine. Price: 690 Bhaisepati, Sainbu, 5591723 Mulchowk Price: Rs.1200 Once in a while, everybody on very special days would love to dine like royals. Tucked inside the Baber Mahal Ghangri Café Revisited Complex in Kathmandu, a If you follow the sign for the Ghangri Café into the large parking lot past a futsal court renovated Rana building that boasts and a beauty parlor, you might wonder if you’re in the right place. Then you see the of a beautiful décor lies Mulchowk, a doorway, and you’re in. But these directions are probably not necessary, as Ghangri fine dining establishment. The menu is undoubtedly one of the most popular family restaurants in town, with a menu that is impressive with different dishes and caters to a wide range of patrons. you can see that each and every dish is chosen with a lot of care.

Himalayan Trout Fish Mulchowk restaurant menu also includes the Himalayan trout fish, cooked in cream, garlic, rosemary, parsley and spices can be orderd with either that Basque or lemon confit. The himalayan trout on a summery afternoon fish with lemon confit is the perfect combination, Chicken Cordon-Bleu where you don’t want to feel sleepy Chicken stuffed with cheese, button after a heavy meal and lemon juice mushrooms and chicken sausage, then rolled adds to that fresh tangy taste to your in breadcrumbs and fried till golden and tender moist fish, tantalizing your Cheese Balls crisp. The meat is deliciously cooked – juicy taste throught the meal. Oozy and crunchy, Ghangri’s and tender without being dry, with cheese Cheese Balls is one of the favourite melts and other fillings to complement. Price: Rs.1050 snacks served at the café. Mulchowk, Baber Mahal Revisited, Price: Rs.370 4259801 Price: Rs.250 Pulchowk, 5528703

Entertainment//Indulgence 46 Chitchat About the film Zhigrana, a suspense thriller, is directed by under the Bun Pasang Lama. In the film, a seven-member NGO team leaves the city for remote Ruku, The cookbook author James Beard once said, “People who love to talk food and theater are in order to find out more about life there. In order to shake things up a bit, the director never at a loss for conversation”. So, we’re at Capital Grill in Bhatbhateni, an eatery that has opted to go for a story-driven film rather specializes in burgers and urban delicacies, for an exclusive conversation with the actors of than an action based one. Lama believes Zhigrana could become a trendsetter in the the upcoming movie, Zhigrana. We caught up with three of the actors along with the director, Nepali film industry, establishing a trademark Pasang Lama, to gorge on tantalizing burgers and sandwiches and talk about their upcoming style in the way films are made. “We are expecting a lot of youngsters to be into film. This is what took place in between juicy bites! the film,” says Lama. In order to promote the movie, there has been a lot of online TEXT BY PRAJWAL LAL MANANDHAR marketing. They have been reaching out to 1.82 million people worldwide, engaging almost two lakh individuals every week, with 2000 daily hits on the film’s website. The Nacha Na online singing contest was also Nikun Shrestha started to promote Zhigrana. Philly Cheese Steak Burger Released Date: 6 March Cast: Hanna Geschewski, Nikun Shrestha, In Zhigrana, Nikun Shrestha plays a half- Capital Grill Menuka Pradhan, Jyoti Karki, Shanti Giri, Spanish half-Nepali character named Roger, who The impressive story Arun Regmi, Deewakar Piya, Bina Pandey happens to be a playboy. Roger goes through of the fast-growing a lot of ups and downs throughout the movie. Shrestha reveals that it was more than just an Capital Grill began amazing experience for him; in fact, it could be more than two years one of his favorite roles so far. Although it was ago, and since then, a challenging character for him, Shrestha saw the restaurant has plenty of things he could improve upon. With beef and cheese sautéed with onions been providing served in a hot dog bun, the Philly Cheese Steak quality services Burger is one of the most acclaimed dishes to its customers. in the menu. Originating in Philadelphia, the Having lived in the burger turned out to give Nikun Shrestha an unexpected taste. Even though the mushroom United States for and cheese added more flavor and texture to 16 years, Vivek the burger, he found it mild and soft. Not that it Sherchan, the owner wasn’t scrumptious, but, according to Shrestha, of Capital Grill, has the addition of more spices could have made it better. Additionally, if the amount of cheese a lot of experience was decreased and the mushrooms were fried in when it comes to butter, it would have been the perfect burger, he serving food. You do observed. not bite into one of Shrestha is also popular as DJ Phuchhey, but he wants to be recognized as an artist who their burgers and say wants to entertain viewers. “Wow, that tastes good!” Instead, you say, “Hey, that’s a good, juicy, fresh, Hanna Geschewski tasty burger.” The Vegetable Sandwich American style diner offers a Menuka Pradhan Zesty Ranch Chicken Sandwich Hanna Geschewski plays the role of an large assortment American girl, Christine, the team leader of a of appetizers and seven member NGO group, who has been in entrees to suit a Having already been a part of numerous films and plays, Menuka Pradhan appears Nepal for the last four years. She is a serious, variety of tastes. focused, and dedicated team leader, setting up in Zhigrana as Maya, a character completely for a final project in Nepal. Geschewski states Atomic Buffalo different from the way Pradhan is in real life. that it was a great experience working with the Wings, Fiesta Lime Maya is bold, irritating, selfish, and extremely crew of Zhigrana and is pretty happy with the Chicken, Fajitas, possessive about her boyfriend. Pradhan is happy with what she has gained from the film’s storyline. Zesty Ranch Chicken Because she is vegan, and with only one movie, and believes that it has elevated her type of veg burger available at Capital Grill, Sandwich, Capital self-confidence. Geschewski had no other choice but to choose Grill Burger, and the Vegetable Sandwich. With fresh vegetables the Philly Cheese Pradhan’s love for chicken dishes, be it any mashed into a sensational patty, the sandwich Steak are a few of kind, made her choose the Zesty Ranch seemed to satiate her slightly more than she Chicken Sandwich. She, however, found it had expected. Above all, the patty, filled with the popular dishes lacking the sweetness she was searching for. the freshness of vegetables and the perfect at Capital Grill. Nonetheless, despite it not being as spicy as combination of light spices and cheese, There are live music she would have liked, the actress did like the enhanced the taste of the dish she had chosen. performances on chicken patty. An addition of extra cheese and When asked if the sandwich could have been spicy herbs, along with barbecue sauce, would made better, she answered with a straight no; Fridays and game have made it even better, she said. it couldn’t have been any more satisfying. screenings as well, Geschewski is currently pursuing her all of which make According to Pradhan, her character in the Bachelor’s degree in Environment Science at Capital Grill perfect movie would not have chosen this sandwich. Kathmandu University. She is originally from The actress is really selective when it comes Germany, but has been living in Nepal for for that happening to food, and is extremely conscious when it quite a while. night out. comes to her body and health.

Think//Feature 48 Perched on Shaky Ground Reflections at the landslide site in Jure

Text by Sanjit Pradhananga

Our lives are perched on shaky up the landslide. Above us was the ground. massive hill that had collapsed stood We had watched this disaster unfold on Often in our urban lull we forget ominously, and below a sheer drop to TV, the pictures peppered throughout the how precarious life really is. How, the lake that the disaster had formed. despite our fortresses of concrete and There were cameras galore and newspapers, yet to be finally there amidst steel, we forever live on a precipice prayers, and big sighs of relief when the carnage was surreal and sobering. — always merely a rumbling second we finally found our way back to the away from a sobering lesson in tarred highway. impermanence. Yet all weekend we couldn’t get A recent trip up north to Kodari Jure out of our minds. site. If we had any expectations, they in a hard hat was setting up a yellow brought the message roosting home. There is something morbid that would be shattered completely. We stand to survey a low route being Shipping out of a sleepy Kathmandu draws us to disasters and misfortunes had watched this disaster unfold on excavated near the still choked up at dawn, it had slipped our minds that — the same impulse that drives TV, the pictures peppered throughout river. We tried to strike up small talk our commute would lead us through people to huddle around road-side the newspapers, yet to be finally with him but he seemed genuinely the gargantuan landslide at Jure that accidents or raging household fires. there amidst the carnage was surreal disinterested. There were others who claimed 156 lives last monsoon. We We couldn’t put our fingers on exactly and sobering. Bus windows and had come to the site on motorbikes— soaked in the beauty of the Sunkoshi what it was. But we knew we would flat screens do no justice to what armed with smartphones and hugging green ravines along the be finding our way back here again, has come to pass here. To see a Instagram filters, and perhaps he had Araniko Highway unaware. But the excavating stories and “seizing a gargantuan hill slide recede an entire had one small talk too many. dreamy morning would come to a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” settlement into dust gets one lost “Are you surveying this road to get rude awakening. Cruising past idyllic as my photographer friend kept for words. And an eerie silence has it ‘pitched’?” hamlets and sun-soaked faux beaches repeating. Maybe this would be his settled over whatever the destruction “It won’t be this year.” we paid little notice to the fact that Kevin Carter moment. All weekend has left behind: half submerged “Where is the old highway that ran the highway worsened progressively. we slept on a pillow of paradoxes. houses, fully submerged tv sets, water through here?” Then past a bend at Khandichaur, it soaked vehicle registration blue “There, under those rocks the size disappeared altogether. books, scattered slippers, shirts and of houses.” Suddenly excited chatter filled As soon as we had concluded our blouses still drying on a clothesline— “What is that stench?” the bus. Those that had dozed off assignment at Kodari we hitched fluttering in the afternoon breeze, “Hundred and fifty-six people sprung awake as we snaked up a a ride on a crowded local bus past ready to be folded and put away. died. Maybe some 35 bodies were dusty make-shift road that climbed Baharabise and hiked to the landslide At a nearby vantage point, a man dug out. No one counted the cattle. 49

We are standing over a mass burial.” without fuss. Succinct. He went back to his Their cooperation was data entry. He knew he had said just strangely disconcerting. We enough to send us away. couldn’t help but feel like Further up the road, we met 65 desensitized vultures preying on year-old Chatra Bahadur Bhandari someone else’s grief— merely and 70-year-old Yama Tamang, another set of eyes perpetuating slowly clearing off the mud-caked a localized oriental gaze. highway with shovels and a wheel Drained and dusty, we barrow. They were locals, and walked away from another seemingly they were the only ones conversation, having had heard out on the job that day. They were a enough. lot more forthcoming to our queries and more than happy to take a break over cigarettes. Our bus-ride back to They recalled for us the night of Kathmandu was silent and the landslide, when an earthquake- penitent. Several passengers like rumble sent them scampering were talking simultaneously to higher ground in the darkness. In about what would happen the morning they returned to find to the capital when the “big” almost the entirety of the village earthquake would arrive. For they had lived in, swept away. They a long while we overheard a pointed to us their houses on the middle-aged guide trying to hillside standing precariously close explain to a young French to the swath of lands that had given couple what had happened at way. The houses looked half defiant Jure and all the destruction and half apologetic, and stared back that it had wrought. There was at us with the hollow gaze of someone urgency and desperation in his who has been through something tone— like he needed them to unspeakable. understand what had come to The two men spoke freely, yet we pass there, for his own sake, caught on that this wasn’t the first more than anything else. time they had recollected the events But despite his protracted of that fateful night. There have efforts, they seemed distant and been other journalists, surveyors, only interested to look polite. authorities and passersby who have Their lives, unlike his, are asked them the same questions not perched on shaky ground— before. There will be others yet. always a rumbling second When we asked them to pose for us away from a sobering lesson in from a crumbling house, they obliged impermanence.

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A Day with a Chef Getting the right ingredients is paramount. Here is a look at the extent Chef Bishwa Raj Dahal from Old House Restaurant goes to get his hands on the best ingredients in the valley.

Text by Evangeline Neve

e were standing funded group, it is one of the longest in the middle of a running organic farms around. neatly tilled field, Another farmer, Ramesh Khadka shades of fresh, from Appropriate Agriculture bright green all Alternatives, also explained that his around us, peering farm and the small farms of forty local Winto a hot greenhouse dripping with women in the area all work together moisture and filled with fragrant basil. as an agro-socio business to produce Behind us were tall vines packed with high quality organic vegetables of all tomatoes—which some of us were kinds. It’s a true co-operative, and picking and eating there and then: they’ve organized it so different people they were tangy, fresh and sweet. on their small farms grow different Chef Bishwa Raj Dahal has been varieties of vegetables, which they working at Old House for several then gather and sell to places that months now. This gem, tucked away include The Old House—working behind the Samsung showroom on together instead of competing against Durbar Marg, is eight months old and each other. going strong. While the restaurant In all, I counted over60 different does have some a la carte options, varieties of vegetables and herbs and including a special lunch menu, one seasonal fruits being grown in these of their more unique and interesting groups of farms, a rich spread of choices is the Tasting Menu, a five diversity, but I’m getting pleasantly course specialized dining experience distracted: we were here to see what that changes with the season and the chef would choose for his meal. what’s most fresh and good. Today, “Every time I come here I get new we’re spending the day with the chef ideas for my next meals,” Chef Bishwa to see how he turns produce into said. We began in the herb garden, perfection with his special dishes. where thyme, oregano, mint and some To start our day off, we traveled of the oldest, thickest rosemary plants with Chef Bishwa to one of the farms I’ve ever seen in Nepal flourished. outside Bhaktapur that provides Mint and rosemary went into his the source and inspiration for the basket. Then a beautiful selection of meals ahead. We began at Sobogaard salad greens and edible flowers: bright (Gamcha) Organic Farm House in yellow mustard and vibrant red and Dadhikot, just outside Bhaktapur. orange nasturtiums. Baby carrots Founded by American Judith Chase and the freshest broccoli were also and her husband nearly thirty years selected, along with more to fill the ago, and now managed by a Danish basket up. 53

Walking through the rows of some of the healthiest, lushest tomato plants I’ve ever seen, fields full of bright red and green salad leaves of all sorts, and patches of edible flowers and fresh herbs, it was easy to see where the Chef gets his inspiration from.

As we walked, we learned more patches of edible flowers and fresh about why this particular farm was herbs, it was easy to see where the chosen: no chemical pesticides or Chef gets his inspiration from. There fertilizers are used here; microbes and was so much abundance and choice bio-fertilizers are specially imported all around us, produce that just cried for use instead, as are organic seeds out to be cooked with and made into from Denmark. But don’t worry, the something special and succulent. farm makes optimum use of local After we returned to The Old natural methods too: each week they House, I had a look around a little collect manure from all the cattle more. The restaurant’s outside seating farmers in the area, which gets mixed area was lovely and obviously popular with chopped dried leaves and husks with diners, but I was personally really and other scraps of vegetable waste taken with the inside—it has been matter to form a rich, fertile compost. loving and tastefully decorated in a They also save seeds from these way that shows of its stark beauty and organic crops for future sowing, and clean lines. I loved the old floors and practice companion planting, which curtainless window frames that let the is the practice of growing certain light in cleanly onto white tables and plants and crops next to each other in chairs. It seemed to be designed to let a combination that is believed to deter the food take center stage. pests and enhance the various plants’ On the menu there are a few growth. I also noticed they like to mix touches of Nepal and some Italian things up instead of monocropping, influence that I noted, but most of the which helps to keep the soil healthier; food is strongly guided by classical the use of vertical planting makes the French cuisine, based around those most of the fertile land space. local seasonal ingredients. And of Walking through the rows of some course, there is also a select wine list of the healthiest, lushest tomato plants containing the perfect complement to I’ve ever seen, fields full of bright red each part of the meal. and green salad leaves of all sorts, and And now it was time for Chef Entertainment//Indulgence 54

were rooted. Good vegetables have a purity and taste of themselves in a way that makes them a joy to eat, especially when well prepared and presented. Chef Bishwa has extensive experience in French and Mexican cuisine, and worked for five years at Delices de France, as well as a year in Dubai. It was fascinating to watch him and his team at work in the kitchen. In addition to the fresh produce from the farm, the condiments, oils and other seasonings were all of the highest quality, and everything was made with care and great technique. The kitchen clean and orderly, but it was more than that: each member of staff seemed both competent and confident in their roles, and along with the Chef they worked as a smoothly moving team. The farm’s produce also plays a starring role in of the main courses the Chef made that day, the Seared Chicken and the Beetroot Ostrich, served with the broccoli and baby carrots that were far more than just a side for the meat. I especially loved the beetroot and carrot puree that the dishes were served with: the carrot in particular was rich, creamy, delicious and vibrant all at the same time. It is often easy to rely on seasoning or heavy spices in cooking, and while for certain types of cuisine it is warranted, this was food cooked simply but elegantly. The chicken and ostrich were both also cooked to the point of perfect doneness, so that they retained their juiciness without drying out. Oh, and that rosemary turned up in these dishes as well! Even though these were main courses based around meat, the combination of quality vegetables prepared with care made the “sides” command your equal attention. For desert, we tried the Sweet Lime Meringue: even in this, today’s produce is used, not just the limes, but also the mint that provides the final garnish. I was also delighted to sample the Homemade Macaroons and Madeleines, two classic French sweet preparations that are not easy to get right but in this case, were just perfect. The Madeleine just melted in my mouth, I could have gladly eaten half a dozen or more. The Old House is a venture from the partners that started Le Sherpa, Bishwa to set about turning his and the --- year old house is a perfect chosen ingredients into tonight’s backdrop for elegant fine dining. tasting menu. To start with, a fresh As night falls, the garden is organic salad: the Chef placed thin transformed into fairyland: with slices of tomato and raw beetroot in a strings of light illuminating bare winter ring around the edge of the plate, and branches strung with prayer flags, the piled the center high with the fresh restaurant, inside and out, fills with the salad leaves we had seen earlier in the hum of happy conversation and the day, tossed first in a tangy dressing. convivial sound of clinking glassware. Atop the salad, some nasturtium By the time we leave Chef Bishwa flowers. It was fresh, bright, and a and his team they are in the midst of perfect way to showcase the amazing a busy service: among the diners are things we’d seen at the farm. Perhaps a large table filled with family, groups having just that day seen the very of chatting friends, intimate couples. same plants and the earth they came All seem to be enjoying both the from is what gave this simple, elegant atmosphere and the constant stream salad its essence, its brightness and a of food coming out of the kitchen each sense of how and where the flavours time the Chef calls “service.”

Entertainment//Indulgence 56 A Hidden Retreat To find a location with prospects of tourism in a country that extends from the plains to the highest mountains is definitely not a challenge. Chhaimale Resort, thirty kilometers south from Kathmandu on the way to Hetauda, located away from all the clichéd tourist destinations of hill-tops and river banks, offers a bit of everything for guests of all kinds.

Text by Prabal Shrestha

ilgrimage, exploration and adventure—these are all reasons why we travel. However for some, to travel is as much a peek into the within as it is an exploration of the outside Pworld. Five kilometers from Dakchhin Kali Temple on the way to Kulekhani is Chhaimale Resort, a thirty-ropani property that provides a setting especially suitable for travellers looking for a respite from the life in the city. Unlike Nagarkot and Dhulikhel, which have long lost its novelty to burgeoning hotels and resorts, Chhaimale is a fairly unknown destination to even most denizens of Kathmandu. Located on the roadside on the way to Hetauda through Dakchhin Kali, amidst the lapsi and naspati (pear) trees, the resort innaugurated in September of 2013 brings tourism to a village yet to venture such prospects. also have barbeque parties in the area The resort has been built with achitecture where we provide barbeque made with inspired from both comtemporary designs burning chyampati (lapsi seeds)—thanks and local constructs. Chhaimale provides to the widespread lapsi farming around 7 dormitories , 6 tented camps, 6 wooden the area,” says Panta. A conference hall standard rooms and 5 delux rooms. “We that will be able to hold around a hundred have everything for everyone. If you are a people is currently under construction group of young friends you would want to within the resort premises, which share a dormitory. If you are one of those according to Panta, should be ready in with an underlying sense of adventure, around two to three months. we have tents you might want to consider. “What we are trying to build is a And secluded and exclusive experience completely natural experience—a green is what you are looking for, the wooden resort,” sares Panta. The multi-cuisine standard rooms and delux rooms would menu that the resort serves are prepared suit you,” says Sanjay Shrestha, the assistant with ingredients mostly sourced locally. manager at the resort. The dormitories are The waste generated by the resort are typical Nepali houses with large rooms treated within the resort premise, where that can accommodate 4 to 12 guests. The bio-degradable are used to make manure bathrooms for the dormitory are shared. and recyclable are transported for Tented camps have been built with attached recycling. In winters, instead of relying bathrooms. Right next to the tents and on heaters and air conditioning, the are the wooden standard appartment, guests are provided with hot water bags in eligently built, with the right amenities addition to the blankets. to make a cosy retreat. If you are looking As for the activities around the resort, for something rather contemporary and you can take a ten-minute walk for a exclusive, the delux rooms are modern mountain view, and you can see the city rooms with individual balconies. with a short hike to Devi Chaur. Also a Apart from the rooms, the resort also good way to start the day would be to take offers an amphitheatre, that according an hour hike to Chaukot Devi Temple. Panta can be used as both a secreening and With all these options at offer, Chhaimale presentation area, as well as a party dance resort provides an experience that ranges floor. “The amphitheatre is an open space from solitude to adventure. that can be used how our guests see fit. We Contact: 6924909

Entertainment//Closing Act 58 What does it mean to be a Lone Ranger? An individual to the very core, the saxophonist of the band Cadenza—Inap Shrestha, is the perfect choice to experiment some products made just for the lone rangers.

Text by Prajwal Lal Manandhar

any have mistaken concepts for Conservatory (KJC) in May 2010. A band a Lone Ranger. What does it take member of Cadenza Collective and Joint to be a Lone Ranger? Courage, or Family Internationale, a jazz and a reggae maybe Intelligence. Undoubtedly, band respectively, Shrestha has played in having to take things all by yourself different concerts and music festivals in and Mis no piece of cake. But still, if you rely on out of the country. Besides being a band yourself and fend yourself, without looking member, he is also a German language mentor to others for affirmation, you can proudly call and a music teacher at KJC, and has many yourself a Lone Ranger. a roles to play in his daily life. He defines Inap Raj Shrestha started his himself as an optimist, and a person who 5 Saxophone classes in Kathmandu Jazz always has time for himself and his music.

Fr!day caught up with Inap Raj Shrestha to talk about few things that people can use on their own: 1. Inap Raj Shrestha is ready to set out to work with his Saxophone on a Hero Splendor Pro Classic. Hero Splendor Pro Classic is Hero’s first 100cc cafe racer styled bike that comes with signature café racer features such as cafe racer cowl, single seat, a round head-lamp and tail lamp, including a new handle bar. 2. On the way to his work striving through the narrow alleys of the capital 1 3 4 in his Café Racer. 3. With his MaxWest Android Tablet phone, clicking pictures of the beautiful 2 sceneries and listening to music in Shrestha has played in different his portable Bluetooth Speakers form concerts and music festivals in ClipTech, while making an escape from all the hustles and bustles of the city. and out of the country. 4. The Selfie Moment! Shrestha enjoys the occasional selfies, especially with a stunning background. 5. Shrestha on his way to practice session, an important part of his daily life. “I always find a way to give time to my music.” 6. He loves spending some quality time at Café Soma, with a cup of coffee, a book and taking traveling notes. While outdoors, he uses his portable power 6 7 bank from Xiome, to charge his cell phones, which allows him to be on the go at all times. 7. Shrestha preparing his Saxophone for a small gig at Jazz Upstairs, where he frequently plays during the evenings. He considers his Saxophone as his dream instrument, and cannot miss out on it. 8. Playing with some of the members of Cadenza and Sanjay Shrestha from 1974AD.

MaxWest Tablet Phone, Xiome Power Bank and ClipTech Bluetooth Speakers 8 from Click! Solutions, Pulchowk. Contact: 5536669

Entertainment//Closing Act 60

KTMKathmandu still has plenty of destinationsH toi caterke to lovers of the outdoors.s

Text by Kapil Bisht

Shivapuri National Park Dappled light filters through the to reconnect to one’s peaceful trees and melodious bird songs corner. waft down from them. You stop Hikes in Shivapuri are of in your tracks as scuttling feet on varying degrees of difficulty. You the forest floor produce a rustling can catch a microbus right to the that punctures the silence. A walk entrance gate at Pani Muhan, then in Shivapuri National Park is a saunter up to the Nagi Gompa to workout for the body and a tuning hear nuns murmur mantras and of the senses into Nature. No eagles screech in the blue sky. effort is required to do that. The Or you can go for the strenuous quietness of the place inspires it. climb up to Shivapuri Peak, where Serene. Quiet. Green. These a Himalayan panorama and a are not just features of Shivapuri; silence pierced only by a whistling they are reminders of the loss wind await you. Disappointment Kathmandu has suffered. Shivapuri of varying degrees is common is a place to immerse the senses while returning from Shivapuri. It and forget about the crowded comes from catching glimpses of and frenetic city. It is also a place Concrete National Park. Chisapani Chisapani qualifies more as a mini- ethereal and changing hues of trek than a hike. It has everything: the setting sun. After that it a trail that passes through forests hardly matters that Chisapani is and villages, a night halt in a place simply a village on a hilltop. that is the threshold of remoter A hike to Chisapani is like and wilder places, and mountains an introduction to trekking looming in the distance. And all in Nepal. Within a day you this in a place less than a day’s walk pass through idyllic villages from Kathmandu. and dense forests, witness The strenuous part of the hike a mountain panorama and is between Sundarijal, from where experience all the simple beauty the hike begins, and the village of of village life. It is an adventure Mulkharka. From there onwards, tailor-made for those low on the hike is a stroll in the forest. time and money, and those Days end in spectacular fashion who do not have the stamina to here as mountains bathe in the endure a trek of several days.

Lakuribhanjhyang to Panauti This hike goes from the village the hike. But the going on this of Lamatar in the south of the hike is likely to be slow as you Valley to the medieval town of are unlikely to hurry through Panauti. Along the way are small a landscape of lush terraced villages, forests, and the classic fields and gurgling brooks. Nepali countryside scenes of The hike’s destination is terraced paddy fields, streams the medieval Newar town and children in flip-flops of Panauti. Fast walkers, walking to school. provided they set out early, It is an easy but long can reach on time to visit walk after going over Panauti’s famous temples. Lakuribhanjhyang. Since there Otherwise, you can always are villages at regular intervals devote the next morning on the route, there is always to sightseeing in Panauti a place to get a cup of tea and before taking the bus back to information on the remainder of Kathmandu.

Entertainment//Closing Act 62

Phulchoki Phulchoki is another destination sights that abound in the forest. A for nature lovers. The hike to the total of 288 species of birds have highest point in the Kathmandu been recorded in Phulchoki, and Valley is a wilderness experience many of these fill the soothing that taxes the body but rewards atmosphere of the place with the senses. Soon after starting their songs. With luck, you might the hike, traffic, noise, pollution, even spot a deer or the elusive crowds ebb away as Nature’s tunes leopard. take over. Phulchoki’s summit is the The hike to Phulchoki begins setting of a visual treat. On a clear near the verdant and soothing day, a white fence of snowy peaks Godavari Botanical Gardens. The stretches from one end of the hike to the hill’s summit is a walk horizon to the other. That sight through dense forests teeming and the experience of walking with birds and other creatures. amidst ancient trees is enough to The physical difficulties of the make you want to climb the hill climb are offset by the sounds and again and again.

Taudaha to Champadevi This hike begins at the points around the Valley, the picturesque little pond of Champadevi hill offers a short Taudaha. If you visit in the but intense climb. winter, there will be several The trail to the Champadevi migratory birds on and in summit passes through small the vicinity of the lake. The villages in the beginning. But the birds arrive annually to either last third of the climb is through winter here or to rest for a forests. A Himalayan panorama few days before continuing is visible from the summit. south to the Indian plains. Located in this lonely spot is the South of the lake is the hill of Champa Devi shrine, one of the Champadevi. Like other high Valley’s most revered shrines.

Sankhu to Changu Narayan The hike from Sankhu to After traversing the fields Changu Narayan takes you from south of Sankhu, you begin the alleys of a medieval town a climb that passes through to the expanse of farmlands small hamlets and forests to to Kathmandu’s oldest temple. arrive at the top of a hill. There Every step of this hike is an the temple of Changu Narayan opportunity to witness the sits like a jewel, sequestered Valley’s heritage—from the behind high walls, only its occupational to the spiritual. glittering gajur visible from the Sankhu is one place that still distance. retains much of its agrarian The temple’s courtyard is a roots. Although not immune repository of sacred art, with to change, it remains a farmers’ images and shrines dating back town. As you step away from centuries. A recent addition to the town center you encounter the courtyard is the wonderful scenes that could be a painting Living Traditions Museum. of rural life: people bent over Its collection showcases the amidst their crops, with flocks religious and cultural richness of egrets feeding nearby, rows of of Nepal, with an entire gallery vegetables and stacks of hay. dedicated to Changu Narayan.

Think//Feature 64 Photo Courtesy: Artlab Pokhara: The Second City With the ever-growing influx of tourists, and talks of building an international airport, Pokhara will soon be able to compete with Kathmandu on various fronts. One such area will be the arts. Pokhara, with its open spaces and plethora of trendy businesses, is more art-friendly than the capital .However the conversation between the city’s existing resources and nascent art scene has not benefited from liaisons who can take the dialogue further.

Text by Nishal Oli

ost vehicles destined The same is true of Pokhara’s picturesque school with stories of the canvas itself, puncturing the work for Pokhara end up at nascent art scene. A hotbed for the classrooms stacked against a backdrop -- essentially destroying the painting. Kalanki, Prithivi Narayan form, the city is without galleries, or of the Macchapuchhre and the Then there is the collection itself, Chowk. Shouldered more importantly the contrived and Annapurna. which has not seen any curatorial houses, billboards hierarchal structures of Kathmandu’s Palikhe is a businessman who, intervention. It is inaccessible, and erected on each of them, artist community. Pokhara shows for years, has been collecting works also doesn’t abide any standardized Mand more shops than necessary are ambition in creating a visible, of artists around Nepal, as well as methods of storage. bystanders to the clichéd throngs of pervasive‘art culture’. Unfortunately, running a school. “I have collected Then again, Palikhe’s involvement aggressive cab drivers waiting street- though this potential has long over 200 paintings from 100 plus (without a background in the arts) side, ready to pounce on anyone been untapped, it is overshadowed artists” boasts Palikhe, but quickly is impressive. He is also executive stepping out of a parked car. A statue by a tourism-orientated mindset, adds “but many have misconstrued member of the Creative Aritsts’ Group, of the most replicated Shah king is the and souvenir art ultimately reigns my efforts as being profit-orientated.” which boasts a large membership of centerpiece to this crowded chowk. supreme. Palikhe is aware of his notoriety artists based in Pokhara. At times, it feels like a melting pot What Kathmandu is to culture, amongst certain artists, but he is not The group also runs the city’s only that has ingredients imported from all Pokhara is definitely to nature. The troubled. “My intention is to start a Fine Arts gallery, established after over, unless, that is you take it in as the open grounds, the lakeside, the gallery, and yes I am a businessman. Palikhe lobbied hard for support copied dimensions of an upcoming parks and the greens separate the I recognize my personal contribution from the Nepal Academy of Fine metropolis, experimented within the city from the capital. No wonder to the field,” says Palikhe who has Arts. Many artists and individuals setting of Pokhara. the city has taken up the mantel of dedicated two halls of his institution of Pokhara contributed towards the While the cabs drivers’ the ‘honeymoon city.’ Satirically, it for showcasing and storing paintings in refurbishment of the building where temperament is universal, the cabs also alludes to the disappointment his collection. Of the two collections, the gallery is housed. Again, even with themselves are different from those experienced if one overstays their one is private. “Each of these works, I the intention in the right place, this of Kathmandu. They are of the same welcome. For many (urban) artists bought personally,” explains Palikhe lonely gallery, suffers from foresight make, but the updated Marutis who pass through the lakeside, about his collection by Durga Baral, the that could have warned the group to of Pokhara are more Zen in their a similar feeling must transpire. celebrated cartoonist and artists who is create infrastructure before building a design; they come from a more recent They have covered the streets in native to the city. stable culture. decade. These are the advantages of colors, leaving behind anonymity At first, the idea of a gallery Palikhe’s intentions have helped standing in line; waiting guarantees and meaningless tag- markings within a school seems to supply him achieve support from local artists that whatever trickles down coincides that will soon fade. This short-lived endless positives on the influence it and get complaints from others. with the latest. Then, there is the fact commitment to persist is emblematic would have on the school children. Regardless, as an educator, Palikhe’s that there is opportunity to learn by of the Lake City and its sporadic art However there are reasons to be wary. recognizing of value in the creative observing. scene, but there are those hoping to Palikhe’s efforts have been viewed fields is rarity in itself. In fact, in Perhaps it is because of this create a lasting impact. with suspicion by some(especially January 2015, he invited ArtLab to reason, many countries in the region, Ashok Palikhe is Headmaster at artists based in Kathmandu). Almost host its workshops for the Prasad including Nepal, (those who do not Kumudini Homes. By name and all works in the gallery sport a metal project at his school. Not only did have established institutions dictating its exposed-bick edifice, Kumudini plaque spelling out the names of the he give ArtLab access to his halls for the definition of ‘art’) have been quick Homes can easily be mistaken for donating artist. Ironically, some of the workshop, but also encouraged to accept urban art as fine art. a housing project. But in fact it’s a these plaques have been placed on students to take part in the urban art 65

training. undecided on the second hero till Having had completed their first Sareen Rai, a aupervisor for the session in Birgunj, ArtLab travelled Danish Centre for Culture and to Pokhara in late December, 2014 to Development, the organization that survey existing resources and work funds the Prasad Project, came to the with relevant people to host their rescue. On a cab ride, Rai engaged the program. driver about sourcing an appropriate But unlike Birgunj, there was a woman figure from Pokhara, instantly dearth of alternative art platforms in the response came as Hari Devi the city. “A lot of the urban art on the Koirala, a celebrated singer of the city. streets of Pokhara have been created With the two heroes decided, and by foreigners travelling through the workshop concluded, ArtLab and the city,” says Romel Bhattarai, director Prasad Project’s participants created of ArtLab. But the crew was already several works around Pokhara, the familiar with Nepali artists sporadically focal point of which is their grand working the streets of Pokhara. mural on the wall of Trekkers’ Lodge “STREW, an acquaintance of the featuring both the icons from Pokhara crew, was our first liaison in the city,” and the other heroes of Prasad. adds Kiran Maharjan, an artist who Two months since the session, facilitates workshops for the Prasad several things have come to light Project. STREW, along with few other from Prasad’s Pokhara Chapter. First, (tattoo) artists was making street art STREW will collaborate with ArtLab and they even commissioned murals in Kathmandu for the upcoming alongside the more spontaneous Roots Down Festival, organized by foreign artists cruising through the the Alliance Francaise of Kathmandu, open walls of Lakeside. second and more importantly After meeting Palikhe and Siddhartha Arts Foundation (SAF) conducting an open call for and ArtLab have found their knight in participants, Prasad amassed over shining armor Aashika Sharma. 20 young participants. Of these Sharma is a BBA student and an participants, Bhattarai comments, art enthusiast who participated in “They were definitely less restrained Prasad’s workshop. She is currently in than the participants from Birgunj. line to be trained by SAF to become They were more impatient, but that an art administrator. Similarly, ArtLab might be because of the setting; it’s is giving her practical placement by Pokhara.” having her organize and plan the The participants’ enthusiasm and Prasad Exhibition in Pokhara. energy was sustained by the ArtLab Through Sharma, there is possibility through various exercises and actual to realize the potential of Pokhara. art production. The formula for the An independent actor like her who workshop drew heavily from their is trained to critically assess the experience in Birgunj with some situation without blindly playing into major changes along the way. conventions could help push Pokhara’s “Our two heroes from Pokhara artistic culture to newer heights. were decided from a long list. The As a middleman with background first one chosen was Durga Baral, in management and interests in art, the second choice was a bit difficult,” Sharma could exercise her training in recounts Bhattarai about the usual instigating communication between process of selecting icons of the businesses of Lakeside and the artists, host city. Having failed to include to bring art outside, to bring it where any women actors of society in it truly belong, right where the their Birgunj program, ArtLab were audience is. Entertainment//Closing Act 66 Jewels of China’s East A huge metropolis, an ancient town, and a city of immense cultural heritage make China’s east a tourist hub.

Text and photo by Kapil Bisht

Shanghai Sights The Bund The buildings on the Bund are one of the tell-tale signs of Western influence on Shanghai. This promenade stretches for over a mile along the western bank of the Huangpu River. Colors dance on the river here in the evenings as the buildings in Pudong put on a delightful show of lights.

Shanghai Public Museum The museum’s four floors contain Chinese historical and cultural artifacts, some of them dating back to the Warring States period (475 B.C. – 221 B.C.). Its galleries showcase stone and bronze statues, seals, ceramic and fabric, ancient furniture, coins, calligraphy and paintings from different periods of Chinese history.

Jing’an Temple Shanghai The temple’s history is one of rise and fall. Although it was turned into a plastic For a foreigner keen on discovering Ferrari. And then there are the (and pace of life) can be observed. factory during the Cultural Revolution, the urban China, there could hardly be city’s more than 90000 restaurants, Public parks are where old men temple has made a comeback and now a better place than Shanghai. Apart ensuring that food is never out of and women do t’ai chi and people houses a small community of monks. The temple’s main hall houses a nine-meter from its cosmopolitan character, sight even if it’s out of thought. chat under trees on which they Buddha statue. vibrant culture, and a long history of Shanghai’s infamous crowds and hang their caged pet birds. If fusion with Western culture, it’s the bustling streets can visually exhaust the city outside the park’s limits Fake Market city’s sheer size that ought to fascinate you. That is when the city’s other side seems always about work, public This matter-of-factly named market is the outsiders. It’s a melting pot for people comes into play. Public parks, which parks have a perpetual holiday air. place to get knock-offs of your favorite brands—from eyewear to footwear to from all over China, and being a often have one or more traditional But disparate facets are what handbags. Don’t be shy here. Bargain melting pot of massive size, it has Chinese gardens, are a haven for make Shanghai appealing. It can hard—the shopkeepers expect it. become a city of many faces. locals and foreigners alike. The febrile be maddeningly fast in one place, The most prominent face is of pace of life outside these green zones meditatively calm in another. It French Concession business. To walk Shanghai’s streets enhances their appeal. And it is here, overwhelms with its vastness and For a change of urban landscape, go on a long walk down the French Concession. is to be exposed to the enticements hemmed in by skyscrapers and roads delights with the tiny pockets that Its European-style villas and bungalows of shops selling anything from with thousands of vehicles on them, are worlds apart from the rest of will go a long way in offsetting the visual Ming Dynasty furniture to the latest that some of the traditional lifestyles the city. exhaustion of watching concrete high-rises. 67

While in Xitang Languid Lanes There are a hundred and twenty-two lanes in Xitang, most of them over a thousand years old. These are great places to loiter in. Some will take you past traditional Chinese red palace doors, others end in little gardens. The most famous of all is Shi Pi Lane. Its name means “skin of the stone”, which is a reference to the three- centimeter thick stones that the lane is paved with. At only a meter wide this is not a very accommodating place, so visits should be made early in the morning when it isn’t crowded with sight-seers. Museums Xitang Shuffling along exhibits in a museum is Sloping tiled roofs, red lanterns town’s architecture is the stone narrow, with the narrowest not an activity that one would associate hanging in front of houses, arched bridges. Nine rivers flow through being only a meter wide. with a place like Xitang, but the town does Xitang, with one hundred four Xitang’s most attractive have a couple of interesting museums. One stone bridges, and boats gliding is the Zhang Zheng Root Carving Museum, slowly under them. The description bridges spanning them, most feature is its homeliness. which, like the name suggests, houses a could be from a Chinese watercolor of them of the classical arched Although its streets are one long unique collection of carvings made out of painting—or the set of a movie about design. chain of shops selling everything roots. Another museum to see in town is The town’s architecture is also from artifacts to local delicacies the Button Museum. The museum displays ancient China. But these are features intricately designed and decorated buttons of Xitang, a small town 78 kilometers wanderer-friendly. Connected to paintings, most of them are made by local craftsmen. from Shanghai. roofs extending over the path family-run businesses operating along the rivers mean that from ancestral homes. This Street Food It is remarkable that a place like Almost every other shop on Xitang’s street Xitang exists in modern day China, visitors can continue their walks combined with scenes of people sells something to eat or drink. Dumplings, where old buildings are often pulled even during a downpour. Some washing laundry in the river cakes, candies, pork dishes, dishes down to make way for concrete of the lanes here, however, do and families playing with pets made from lotus, fish from the rivers are not afford the same luxury of in front of their houses give only a handful of items on offer. For the boxes. Xitang succors those yearning adventurous there are deep fried scorpions for traditional architecture. One of free movement. That is because visitors a sense of being in a and cicadas. the most celebrated features of the some of them are uncomfortably neighborhood, a community. Entertainment//Closing Act 68

Hangzhou Highlights

Leifeng Pagoda The Leifeng Pagoda is an architectural gem. This pagoda was built in 977 A.D. According to legend, it was built to house a lock of the Buddha’s hair. The pagoda collapsed in 1924, and it was only in 2002 that it was rebuilt. The old foundation of the pagoda can still be seen on the ground floor. The pagoda is mentioned in folklore as the place where the mythical Lady White Snake was imprisoned by a monk. Lingyin Temple Complex Images of the Buddha, various Buddhist deities, and monks sit wearing beatific expressions in niches on cliff faces in the hill known as Vulture’s Peak. The standout image here is of the Big-bellied Buddha. After taking in the masterpieces of rock carving, visit the Lingyin Temple, one Hangzhou of the oldest and biggest Zen Buddhist temples in China. The temple also has It is likely that visitors return from inseparable in Hangzhou’s other Hangzhou is a city of China’s biggest sitting Buddha statue. Hangzhou without having seen the attractions. One such monument hidden wonders. It has Tiger Spring city’s center. That is down mostly to is the Baochu Pagoda. This tower- ample sacred and historical A gurgling stream greets visitors at the the enchanting West Lake. Occupying like slender pagoda stands on sites for those interested in entrance to this forested area. Following an area of six-and-a-half square Precious Stone Hill. There are more China’s heritage. These places the stream in the opposite direction kilometers, this lake is the locale ancient sites in the forests of this are often preserved in their brings you to the source of the stream: Tiger Spring. Water from this crystal clear of ancient myths. Its beauty had hill. Stepping into the Taoist temple original setting, providing a natural spring is famous all over China enraptured emperors and moved sequestered in the forest feels like magical experience of having and is said to be the best water to make poets to extol it in verse. entering a different realm, a world gone back in time, to China’s the famed Longjing tea, which is another Myth and history are often out of the reach of the modern world. rich past. Hangzhou specialty.

Think//Feature 70 More Than Just the Idea Sometimes it’s not just about the ideas but rather it’s about what you learn from them.

Text by Anutara Shakya

hat is an entrepreneur? It Not all of the ideas made it, the participants the right mentors to the participants. is someone who takes the were divided into eight teams with the best “Someone who is working on creating necessary risks to bring a restaurant business cannot gain solutions to an existing ideas who worked on them till the final day. much from a mentor who is working problem, whether or not in the IT sector. Mentors make a big Whe makes profit out of it. But what do way, the NYEF Boot Camp also have similar Boot Camps but for more difference.” says Shrestha, “The time you do when you don’t make profit? been able to bring something new established entrepreneurs but things that the mentors have given for this You remodel your idea to create and innovative. Rather than focusing didn’t fit right. They felt like they Boot Camp is as precious as the ones something better or you shut that idea on the idea, they’re focusing on the were missing something, and that that the participants are spending down and start working on a new people. After all, it’s the people who was when they decided that they learning from it. So it is only fair that one. You want to be an entrepreneur come up with ideas. “We did a lot of should focus on startups. One of the both the parties get the right fit.” he but what do you do when you don’t homework to get the 28 finalists,” says main reasons for selecting people adds. But the mentors are present know where to start? How do you Shrestha, “In a way; it became our who have never started a venture only to guide the teams while they know if the risks you take are even boot camp as we spend many nights before was to make sure that all the have less influence on the decisions worth it? “One of our priorities was to filing through the applicants we got. participants were on the same level, that they will make. show our participants that being an Since this was our first time, I was whether they were MBA graduates In the end, the judging criteria entrepreneur is not an easy task.” says very skeptical about the number of from international universities or was simple, they looked at only three Ajay Shrestha, one of the organizers entries we would get.” But then the +2 graduates from the city, everyone areas, the teamwork, innovativeness of the NYEF Boot Camp, which organizers got almost 300 applicants, was on the same page as they began and feasibility of the idea. Out of the was held from the 26th to the 28th of some even from outside the valley. learning about creating business plans eight teams that were created, three February at Park Villa. The selected participants then pitched and began working on their ideas. teams were selected as winners, they The Nepalese Young Entrepreneur’s the ideas. Not all of the ideas made The Boot Camp had a pre-event, were FFT Nepal whose ideas was Forum organized a boot camp for it, the participants were divided into four days before the main event, to fusing fashion and technology, Food aspiring entrepreneurs with the hopes eight teams with the best ideas who give a heads up to the participants Factory – a lunch delivery system of encouraging participants to be worked on them till the final day. “We about what they would be facing. “We for corporate offices, and Khaali prepared as much as they can before chose to focus on the people rather wanted to make sure that everyone Bottle – an online portal for recyclers. they dive into the entrepreneurial than their ideas because the ideas was as serious about this Boot Camp The winners did not get any sort of sector. In this regard, the Boot Camp don’t always work but if the person as we were. Thankfully, no one backed monetary prize, however, they will was carefully planned out to make gets enough knowledge about starting out.” Rather, the participants had be provided with office space by sure that the organizers got what a venture, they can always start shown a lot of enthusiasm during the the organizers as well as get group they were looking for, people with again. The point is to never quit.” says event. You could see the energy as mentoring sessions with the mentors. the startup spirit but who had never Shrestha. With that, the Boot Camp they worked on till late night on their With four members in each team, started a venture before and to help focused a lot on team work. ideas. in fact, there were twelve winners, them learn everything they can Previously, the NYEF had done But this time, the mentors had a all of who can opt to work on their about taking calculative risks. With much more responsible role to be own individual ideas in the days to the popularity of entrepreneurship played. Shrestha says they made sure come. “It doesn’t matter whether rising, it was necessary for them to that each of the teams got the exact every participant goes on to work on show that there is much more to mentor that they needed to turn their initial idea or if their ideas do being an entrepreneur than it seems. their ideas into reality. His attention turn into a reality.” says Ajay Shrestha, “Entrepreneurship takes a lot of to this detail is a result of his own “What matters is that the participants sacrifices.” says Shrestha. experience as a mentor and his learned something and now they But with the rise of the realization for the need of matching won’t be afraid to pick entrepreneurial culture, there have themselves up when been a lot of similar camps that are they’ve failed.” helping aspiring entrepreneurs with their ideas, but just as each startup camp is unique in its own

Entertainment//Buzzmaker 72

In-between Architecture, Music and Films 73

More than a decade ago when the tunes of Xmarika’s Your creative journey began with your rock What was your motivation behind band Xmarica.Tell us about your time as a making Resham Filili? Hamro Nepal buzzed in the back of our heads, and young musician. I was always interested in directing We formed the band Xmarica during high movies but wanted to wait until I today when the official track of the movie Resham Filili, school. I was the bassist and part-time had the right experience, team and Jalaima, is having a similar effect, one person who drummer and we were together for about confidence. eight years from 1996 to 2006. We started can weave a connection is Pranab Joshi, the bassist of as an underground band with mostly What is the main storyline? college performances but we eventually The main character of the move is Xmarika and the director of Resham Filili. grew and were performing at concerts (for Resham and the story is his journey example we opened for Robin and Luza) from the hilly villages in the north of Text by Anuja Kapri and other venues in Thamel. The reason Nepal to Kathmandu. He befriends we fell apart was due to location issues. Hariya, a guy from the Terai region ranab Joshi is a 35 years three times so far (2005, 2007, We had some band members that moved who has also come to settle down out of the country. Our guitarist moved to in the city. Resham is more on the old director awaiting the 2008) and has been nominated for the US and that made it quite difficult for innocent side than his mischievous release of his first big-screen the Best Music Video of the Year/ us to remain a band. new friend. Later on they end up movie Resham Filili. He Best Graphics on Image Awards for living together as roommates and the graduated in 2005 with numerous consecutive years. What lead you to pursue a degree in plot revolves around their experiences Architecture? and adventures. PBachelors in Architecture from In 2012, he was the technical As far as I can remember, I have always Nepal Engineering College, where supervisor for plays Meri Ful been interested in animations. Due to the What genre would you classify the he held the position of Honorary Kumari and Kumari. He then went lack of educational institutions excelling movie in? President of National Architects on to direct a short movie based on in animations in Nepal and India at that It is a commercial movie but as per time, I gave architecture a chance. I the genre I would say a little bit of (2003). Despite academic success and child psychology called ‘Between thought it would be cool to design and comedy, romance, action and thriller. having received numerous awards in Matina’. It is a thriller about two build buildings. However, I only worked We tried to incorporate a little bit of design competitions, after only a brief little girls who are best friends. They in the field for about six months after everything to make it as dynamic as time in the architectural industry both aspire to become the Kumari graduation before changing professions. possible. he decided to change career paths. and when one gets selected the Without an academic background in the Do you have a favorite moment while Pranab is a man driven by passion other develops a split personality. film industry how did you learn all the filming the movie? and the hunger to learn. He is a living The lead actress of the movie, technical aspects? All the moments were interesting example of how education is not only Naswa Joshi, was quoted saying “I It was mostly self-taught and experiments. but my favorite was a dialogue of a I spent a lot of time making music videos, romance scene. We really nailed it on achieved inside the four classroom am scared to watch my own movie”. which was good practice and I learnt the first take. I tried around 25 more walls. He taught himself everything On April 24th 2015, Pranab a lot along the way. I used to pick out takes but ended up using the first he knows about filming and worked Joshi’s first movie Resham Filili is interesting scenes from movies or videos one because it came out so naturally. on over forty successful music videos. being released in movie theaters and try to dissect it. I would break down the scene into little parts and try to film Any challenges you faced during He has also been involved in the all over Nepal. The story follows my own version of the scene and put it production? production of multiple TV shows Resham (Vinay Shrestha) and together. It helped me understand the When I started to work on this movie such as Play It On (NTV Plus) and Hariya (Kameshwor Chaurasiya) technical side as well as exposed my mind I watched several other famous Defining Miss Nepal(NTV Plus). who are roommates and to creative thinking. movies for ideas but I realized that Hollywood movies have a very He successfully raised awareness essentially partners in bad luck. Any favorite movies, which may have different context and appeal. I on social issues such as domestic Things get interesting when they influenced your interest in the film am dealing with a much different violence and even conducted a accidentally find themself enemies industry? audience culturally and socially, donation program for kidney patients to a notorious villain Dorje Don I enjoy all kinds of movies but if I had to which is a challenge as well as a pick a genre, science fiction would be my rewarding experience. through Play It On. He has won the (Shisheer Bangdel). They need to first choice. I also enjoy movies like Hotel award for ‘Best Video Editing and prove their innocence to him or Rwanda and Wolf of Wall Street. In terms Who is your target audience? Graphics Image Channel Award’ continue running for their lives. of animation,I loved the Shrek series, We are catering to everyone above the Monster Inc and Kunfu Panda. They have ages of middle school students. To incredible stories as well as graphics. grasp the story there must be some These movies are made in such a way level of social understanding but that even when you watch it over and over overall we are catering to the masses. again, you always find something new that captivate you. What were you looking for while hiring the actors? What inspires you the most? We wanted the people performing I greatly look up to Spielberg and Michael the parts to have some similarity in Bay. I also love to read people. I am personality with the character that fascinated by the way people talk and they were going to perform. We were behave. I like to research the settings able to achieve this to some extent, and environments that cause humans therefore it made things much easier to act a certain way. My favorite pass while filming. The acting came time is actually hanging out in a local more naturally and everyone enjoyed teashop, and just listening to anything and working together because we were all everything that is happening around me. from different backgrounds. I believe that there are a lot of things we can learn from our surrounding. What kind of reaction are you anticipating from the audience? What is the most important thing to keep My team and I wanted to make a in mind while making a movie? movie that we would enjoy watching There are many aspects in making a movie ourselves. We kept ourselves in the and every single aspect holds importance. shoes of the audience and tried You need to have a strong knowledge of to make it as relevant as possible. cameras, editing, visual effects, sound, I really like the script and the music, acting, and the characters. If you production and I hope that my are not confident in these things, others audience will get what they pay for, will be directing you instead. I would say which is a good time. that the most crucial part is choosing the right script. If the script is bad, no matter What are your other interests besides how hard you try and how talented you directing? are, neither you nor your audience will be I am also part-time photographer and satisfied with the end result. graphic designer.

What’s next for you? How did you acquire the script for Resham It really depends on the reaction from Filili? the audience but at this moment I wrote the script myself with the help in time I am not planning a sequel. from some of my friends: Swapnil, Bimal, Perhaps I will work on a new movie? Naresh, Vinay and Sishir. Entertainment//Feature 74

According to the Constitution, for you to get a Nepali Kno w your citizenship, you need to present your parents’ citizenship certificate. And if you choose to get citizenship in your mother’s name, the RightsDo you know where your citizenship card is right this second? I bet you hassle is more than ‘normal’. are thinking of looking for it in your cupboard or inside old files?

TEXT BY SRIZU Bajracharya

For most of us our citizenship card So, how does this affect you and the are trying to show support to Like most youngsters, I believe that is just a piece of paper needed to youngsters of our country? the cause of woman rights. But I am playing my part well when it fulfill formalities. My memory of Subin Mulmi: We have done a lot of it is more than that; it’s a matter comes to my duties. I don’t really standing in a long queue to get hold awareness campaigns on the rights of a human rights. And I think feel the urgency to pull out my of this card is now hazy. I am not so of citizenship. And in almost every this is how we should make identity every time I am outside my angry with the government officer school and college, we have always this an important issue for the house. So, why should this be so who asked me to make rounds to his found people asking us about how youth. With citizenship comes important for all of us that we need office for two weeks. I am in no hurry they can get citizenship without voting rights, and therefore it is to discuss it? to fly abroad, neither have I thought having to deal with the Chief District important for every individual Subin Mulmi: Being a citizen of a of applying for a driving license. Officer. Yes, it’s a lot easier for some to have a citizenship so that he/ country gives us the right to seek So my citizenship is safe in my file youngsters who haven’t faced any she gets to choose his/her own information about things happening of certificates. I haven’t bothered difficulties, but for some youngsters representatives. And if they are in the country; it gives us the right thinking about its value. Because I living with their mothers, or for those still foolish enough to think to educate ourselves. To add to already have my citizenship, the issue who don’t have access to old family this won’t affect them, they will that, we get opportunities to start that has making headlines in the documents face a difficult time. But eventually have to see how the our own enterprise. Citizenship newspapers about citizenship rights you can always bribe your way out leaders affect our future. gives us protection and a sense of hasn’t really troubled my thoughts. of it. Corruption in such places is Shyam Dahal: Those who belongingness. Has it troubled yours? evident. But the victims are always already have a card in hand, won’t Shyam Dahal: I had applied for After all, everybody has a name the younger ones. understand the seriousness of the the job of a cabin crew member and an identity. So why should a Saroj Bista: When we talk situation. They would not be aware at a reputed airline. But I couldn’t laminated card with a stamp of the about getting citizenship in our of the numerous facilities they can get the job because I didn’t have an Nepal government matter so much? mother’s name, people think we only get because they are citizens. Indian citizenship. Don’t you think

Entertainment//Feature 76

citizenship gives people the means to in your mother’s name? women rights; it’s about human do not get it because the youngsters discriminate? I think it can also take Shyam Dahal: I tried to take my rights. We need to be given the choice are not making a bid deal out of the away opportunities from a person. citizenship in my mother’s name, but to apply our citizenship in the name issue. Many young people think that Saroj Bista: Yeah, that may I didn’t get it because the VDC asked of any relation that we want to be the issue does not concern them at happen sometimes. But let me give for my father’s identity. Although identified as being part of. There all. an example. If Nepali nationals are in the law permits me to apply for shouldn’t be a problem if we want to trouble abroad, the Nepali embassy citizenship saying that I am a Nepali apply for citizenship in our mother’s How does our society’s way of tries to bring them to safety. If they woman’s son, I was forced to see the name. We should have the freedom thinking get reflected in the were stateless, who would protect reality of our country. to decide. prescribed formalities to get them? Our citizenship gives us an Subin Mulmi: Nepal has a citizenship? identity. There are a lot of young patriarchal society. People still believe Why do you think the authorities Sarita Shrestha: The culture people in need of attention from the that if you apply for citizenship saying still don’t get the obvious? we live in deceives us in endless state for scholarship, allowances and you are a Nepali man’s son, you have Subin Mulmi: We want people to ways. The patriarchal notion opportunities. And in such a case if more advantages. Many people think understand that everyone has the dominates our thinking and hence, you don’t have your citizenship you, that if you apply for citizenship in right to citizenship. I think our it becomes necessary to bargain don’t have your rights. your mother’s name, you need to authorities, and even some of us, are to get citizenship. The formalities ‘depend’ on your mother’s family. a bit racist. We fear that the foreigners will continue to create difficulty, Why do you think there are Sarita Shrestha: But it’s time our will take over Nepal. particularly because the youth do not problems in getting your citizenship authorities see that it’s not just about Sarita Shrestha: The authorities try to understand the seriousness of situation. Subin Mulmi: The youth of the country is very gullible. They can easily be tricked into believing something that is not true. And it’s their this attitude that irritates me the most. They are so sure that the citizenship problem will never happen to them. But a wise adult will always think for others and will try to seek a solution so that in future his own family won’t suffer. We have to understand that this is not just about me or you but about how this could affect the future for all of us. One problem will always lead to another. Saroj Bista: I think the youth of the country are so politically saturated that it is hard to divert their attention to anything other than politics. They are reluctant to listen to any crucial matters because they now believe that some things with the Nepali government will never change.

Entertainment//Buzzmaker 78 Keep calm and drive

(onso and off berthe field) So what does a leading policeman in the crackdown against drunken driving do after his MaPaSe session?

Text by abhaya raj joshi Whenever we imagine a stereotypical You said you follow football, which is your policeman, we conjure up an image of a favorite team, and favorite player? pot-bellied man. Is it true? I have always been a Liverpool fan. Steven SSP Rajendra Shrestha was chief of Metropolitan Police Range Office, I believe that a member of the police force Gerrard is my favorite footballer, he also Kathmandu during “interesting times”. He was the investigating officer in should be both physically and mentally fit. plays golf. For example, if a criminal sees a bhude You recently won the Asia Energy the Gita Dhakal (Koirala) murder case, and a leading figure in Nepal Police’s (pot-bellied) policeman standing guard, he Security Golf tournament in Kathmandu. You campaign against drunken driving. will obviously think that he will be able to have also won many other tournaments. How outrun the man in uniform. That is why we did you take up golf? organize regular endurance tests to gauge When I was posted in Dharan few years ago, my friends introduced me to golf. I So what does SSP Rajendra Shrestha do that when someone who is drunk gets found that the sport is good for both your on a Friday evening? behind the wheel, he will either harm physical and mental health, so I took it up. The first thing is that I rarely drink. It himself or other people on the road. So how did a young man Obviously, when I was posted in hilly areas would be a lie to say that I don’t drink from Bhojpur end up in like Lamjung I couldn’t continue playing. But at all. But when I do plan to drink, I In cities outside Nepal, the ban on Kathmandu, and in the whenever I have time, I play golf regularly. take a driver along so that I don’t need drunken driving is not absolute. For police force? to drive. Normally on Friday evening and example, in many European cities you Isn’t golf an expensive sport? on Saturday, I go out with friends to play are allowed to drink a certain litres of When I was growing up, Well, it is not as expensive as people golf. alcohol per hour. So long as you have football was a pretty popular think. When you buy a golf club, it is an less than 0.5 grams of alcohol per litre of sport – thanks mainly to the investment, even your grandson will be able Could you elaborate on why Nepal Police blood, drinking is tolerated. But why isn’t spread of football culture to play golf with it. The only cost I see is decided that it was time to crack down it so in Nepal? that of the golf course. But in Nepal, access on drunken driving? Well, in Nepal, you get the same in the neighboring areas of to a golf course is not very expensive. You Four years ago during Dashain, when I punishment for drinking three bottles or Darjeeling and Kalingpong. don’t go to a golf course every day. That is was stationed in Kathmandu, 10 people just sprinkling alcohol on your clothes. As a kid, I would run around why I have a small golf area in my house died in three days in traffic accidents – I have always said that there should with a football whenever I where I practice putting. all of the accidents took place because be a law to increase the quantum of of drunken driving. The accidents had punishment according to the seriousness had time. When I came to How have your friends in police taken your taken place just before the holidays had of the crime. I believe that the current Kathmandu to pursue my interest in golf? begun. So we decided it was time that penalties against drunken driving are bachelor’s degree, I got There are a few former policemen who we took action. We setup checkpoints in not a deterrent against the crime. It has the opportunity to play for have taken up golf. But I haven’t come 50 locations of the Valley, and caught become a chor-police game of sorts. across anyone in the force who has taken people who were driving under the Boys Union FC. Looking at up the sport seriously. I have friends who influence. When someone was caught, After Nepal Police launched a crackdown my performance, the police have had golf clubs for years, but were we would ask the person concerned to on drunken driving, there were reports football club (I also got too shy to go to golf club and play. I have call their guardians, and we would let that said that bars in Kathmandu lost lot the chance to play for the introduced the sport to many friends. them go. of costumers, and business was badly The results of the campaign were affected. Did you not see this coming? national side) recruited me On the golf course, what do you like to do immediately visible, we didn’t have any We haven’t said that there should be into the force. A few years the most? road accident casualty in Kathmandu for no night life in Kathmandu. We should later, I became inspector, I enjoy the drive the most. I have received the remaining part of Dashain. encourage people to go out at night. and the rest is history. four awards for the longest drive in This helps the economy. In a city like different tournaments. Did you get late night calls from friends Kathmandu, which sleeps pretty early, and relatives who were in trouble for tourists are forced to go to bed early. So are you a sportsman who is also a drunk driving? They have the money, but don’t have the the fitness level of our men and women. policeman or a policeman who is also a Yes, I did. There were some people place to spend it. Any member of the force who wants to sportsman? who called me up to ask where the The only thing we say is don’t drink go on overseas duty must now pass the I have never let go of sports. Whenever I checkpoints were for the night. For those and drive. Many bars now have drop endurance test. have time I try to spend it on improving people, I sometimes arranged drivers services, and I recently read an ‘driver There have also been instances where I my fitness. Sports is like meditation for myself, and other times I myself went to for hire’ advertisement. Why don’t we use have warned junior officials to take care of me. But at the moment, I consider myself pick up friends who were about to drive these services, instead of risking our own their fitness. I have even personally helped a professional policeman who is also a under the influence. You should know lives and that of others? a few policemen get back in shape. sportsman.

Think//Sports 80

As the ICC World Cup is being played among the best teams in the world, a brief look at what it would take for Nepali team to be part of the revered competition in 2019. For 2019 Text by Aashis Raj Joshi n March 2014, Nepal’s “The departure of a good player for the simple reason that this fails to address another major men’s national cricket team impediment—rain. With no indoor participated in the ICC World he could not see himself making a living by playing cricket pitches and training facilities T20 tournament, the winner for the country is very depressing and concerning.” available, the national cricket team’s of which is crowned world opportunities to play and practice champion in the 20-over format regularly are severely restricted Iof the game. It was the first top- during those months when it rains. tier tournament that the team had decade ago was lost, and its progress long-term financial security. I know As a result, skills stagnate, fitness played, and with 2 wins out of 3 in stalled. for a fact that Chaugai, who I went drops, and the standard of play the group stage, they narrowly missed That team had such capable to school with, gave up cricket and inevitably worsens. qualifying for the Super 10 stage players as Binod Das and Mehboob moved to the United States for this Another crucial problem that that would have pitted them against Alam, pace bowlers who could be very reason, thereby depriving the needs solving is the way domestic- stalwart teams such as Australia, relied upon to take wickets, and Nepali cricket team of a batsman who level players who do not get selected India, South Africa, and Sri Lanka. Kanishka Chaugai and Paras Khadka, could have been a mainstay of the for the national team are left on Following this laudable talented and technically sound batting line-up for many years. the wayside without guidance performance, the team won the batsmen. Although all these players The departure of a good player and supervision, while those that ICC World Cricket League Division are either in their late twenties for the simple reason that he could do undergo a rigorous period of Three tournament in Malaysia, or early thirties and are therefore not see himself making a living by training and mentoring ahead which secured them a position at the age where most cricketers playing cricket for the country is of international tournaments. in the Division Two tournament. show their best performances, only very depressing and concerning. Such neglect stalls these players’ The team did well enough to be Paras Khadka remains in the team, This unfortunate situation has been development and makes domestic awarded Division Two status in this where he is now the captain as well remedied somewhat by the Cricket tournaments less competitive, which tournament, held in Namibia in as among the most consistent and Association of Nepal’s awarding ultimately means that fewer talented January this year, with performances dependable players. The reasons contracts to national team players. cricketers, who may challenge for a that were spirited despite being a bit for the others’ decline and absence However, although the contracts— place in the national team, as well as short of consistent. They qualified could be anything from loss of form based on those of other national for victories against other nations, to play in the 2015-2017 ICC World and technique over a prolonged teams such as India and Australia emerge. Cricket League Championship, period, the emergence of players who where players are grouped in tiers Despite these challenges, the the results of which will determine outcompeted them, or that some of based on their experience and men’s national cricket team has whether Nepal will achieve the them realized that playing cricket performances and paid accordingly— somehow managed to build itself coveted one-day international (ODI) professionally in Nepal was perhaps go some way towards securing into a competitive, cohesive unit in status, and a most prized and sought- not a viable path to ensure them players’ futures, the amounts are recent years, which has seen them after berth in the 2019 World Cup. pittances when considering that perform steadily better against other Such steady, consistent progress these young men devote the most associate member teams that also indicates that the standard of play, formative and crucial phase of their have the same lofty goals of gaining along with less tangible qualities lives to playing cricket for the country ODI status and playing against the such as tenacity, fight, and what’s instead of getting an education or best teams in the world. This is no called a winning mentality, is on entering a trade. It is no wonder that doubt an admirable achievement— an upward trajectory in the men’s despite the massive popularity of the result of devotion, passion, national cricket team. Yet there was cricket among children and teenagers and hunger for success on the a time only a decade or so ago in Nepal, few would think seriously team’s part, and the support that when the cricket team then about taking up the sport as a CAN has provided them in terms seemed to be progressing career. of contracts—however, within as well as the current Then there is the issue these provisions there is still one is now. It had achieved of whether there is room for substantial monetary promising results in the enough technical and improvement, and a team of Asian Cricket Council (ACC) infrastructural support dedicated, experienced coaches and Trophies in the early- to mid- for those who have trainers. The goal now is to build 2000s, including appearances already become on this platform and qualify for the in semi-final and final matches, professional 2019 World Cup (although this will which suggested that participation cricketers. be difficult for any associate nation, in the most important tournament Foremost among since the ICC has decreed that of them all—the World Cup—was such issues is only 10 teams may take part in that not far off. However, while teams the scarcity tournament, down from the current such as Ireland, Afghanistan, and of cricket 14). The players are getting ever Namibia, which had started from grounds closer to the standard required to the same affiliate member status at with decent play against the top teams, and they the ICC and had had to make the pitches that certainly have the mettle to take same progression up from the lower allow players them past the hurdles. But in an age divisions during a similar timeframe, to hone their where success depends to a large have already participated in World batting, bowling, extent on whether a team has world- Cups or are doing so in the current and fielding skills. A class facilities in which to play and one, our men’s cricket team hasn’t new cricket stadium train, the lack of such infrastructure managed to secure its place in the is under construction might conspire to prevent this World Cup yet. In fact, it is yet to in Mulpani, Kathmandu dream from becoming reality. That be awarded ODI status. Somewhere to alleviate the need would be a real shame, and another along the line, the early promise for a standard cricket setback for cricket in Nepal, just like shown by the Nepali cricket team of a ground, but even the one a decade ago.

Think//Music 82 Reminiscences of his music Prem Dhoj Pradhan is popularly known as the king of romantic melodies of Nepal since his music’s inception in the local scene in 1944. On 26th February, Prabhakar singing for about two years. When Gautam and Pravin Shrestha coordinated a talk program at Martin Chautari to he re-emerged with several songs including ‘Goreto Tyo Gaunko’, he discuss the veteran singer’s views on the local music industry and its intricacies. was declared as the winner of the best Text by Girish Subedi voice award during the All Nepal Modern Songs Competition in 1963. “In our times, going international he conference room “There were times when even I had to re-adjust the lyrics for musicians required them to travel of Martin Chautari for my songs accordingly. Let’s just say that we were not to India for their recordings. I also at Thapathali was became a part of the movement when filled with enthusiasts, allowed to make political statements. And ofcourse, we I decided to record some of mine who were all ears for had to avoid the use of sensuous words!” likewise,”said the singer. He also Twhat the veteran singer had to say, mused about how easy it has become regarding his personal experience and nowadays to do the same due to the use of the Internet. Pradhan had views on the Nepali music industry. Sumsher Thapa that was banned for of songs, Pradhan gave a very satirical recorded his hit songs like Maya Na As questions poured in from the using the word ‘Maat’ (intoxication). answer. “Although it was not such a Mara Mayalu and Ruka Ya Na Ruka participants of the talk program, Although Pradhan’s songs adjusted democratic society back then, there in his first everL .P discs (78 r.p.m.) Pradhan, with his soft-spoken to the censorship accordingly, his were times when it was similar to back in 1963. As of now, he seems to demeanor, explained each detail with poetic preference of lyrics written by what people usually practice in today’s enjoy talking about one of his sons’ ease. his favorites—M.B.B. Shah, Ravindra context.” Smiles of appreciation efforts of putting up some of those Born in Chautara in 1938, Prem Shah, Kiran Kharel, Ratna Sumsher spread across the table of the talk masterpieces over the Internet. Dhoj is a popular composer, singer Thapa and RatnaL al Shrestha—did show. It was now easy to guess that Although Pradhan praised the and a regional playback singer in all the justice it could to represent the being the only audio media of the World Wide Web for providing easy Nepal’s music scene. His career has romanticism of his era. This could be nation, Radio Nepal used to be in a access for audio and visual contents, led him to produce a total of sixteen observed via his popular ones such as state of continuous scrutiny from the however he seemed a bit worried albums—eleven of which were Timilai Achel Kaha Vetau, Ghumti public, unlike today where we are about the royalty of musicians. He produced by himself—with a record ma and Rajamati Kumati. Known as equipped with hundreds of mediums mentioned several FM and television of about 700 songs on Radio Nepal. a veteran in both Nepali and Nepal to represent out thoughts and stations to be sincere but was His musical endeavors continue Bhasa (Newari) singing, Prem Dhoj creativity. pessimistic when it came to others, till date as he was last noted to be had already established himself as a “At that time, Gorkhapatra and including those who unofficially touring Australia (Wesley Conference legitimate modern singer of his time The Rising Nepal was the only print post songs on the net. He even gave Stadium) in 2013 in front of a group in his mid 20s. Of course his personal medium too,” added the singer. As his an example of a producer, who, of expats as a part of the reputed Paleti history goes way back in 1952 when statement ended with the silencing of during the days of his prime, secretly music series. he passed the vocal test in Radio this particular topic, another question produced his album. During the talk program at Martin Nepal at the early age was raised. This time, it was about His frequent breakthroughs in Chautari, an interesting question of sixteen. the prevalent notions of the lyrics music include his duet performance was put on the table by one of the When asked back then and now. To this, Pradhan with Asha Bhosle in Bombay for participants—in relation to the about whether assumed that in those days, patriotic the movie Mayalu and with Usha protocols for music censorship there was songs were the prototypes whereas Mangeshkar for Maitighar. His back in the early 60s and 70s in nepotism back in the lyrics of present day context are constant recordings of Newari Radio Nepal. Pradhan responded those days in the focused more on the society and songs had also led him to become a with a smile, “There were times transmission personal experiences. mainstream icon amongst the Newar when even I had to re-adjust It was evident now that Prem community. A regular duet partner the lyrics for my songs Dhoj’s musical journey had been a for his shows during the time was his accordingly. Let’s just say revolutionary one. Apparently, he friend Yogesh Vaidya. His songs in that we were not allowed to was one of the foremost individuals the collection album ‘Kichah’ are still make political statements. to bring forth songs that spoke of one of the favorites of the audiences And ofcourse, we had personal experiences, especially in the of his generation, particularly to avoid the use of matter of love and lament. Ultimately amongst the residents of Patan. His sensuous words!” He this became a social debate where masterpieces in Nepal Bhasa, along also gave an example one could relate themselves to the with the folk revival of Rajamati of a song written situations of the protagonist of the Kumati for the epic movie ‘Rajamati’ by lyricist Ratna songs. Whether it being the singer or include Wochu Galli Tochu Galli, the lyricist is a different case altogether Balabala Chingu Mikha Ohu and though! Upahar Thu Mati Naya. Although the singer had also sung As Prabhakar Gautam, the host for some patriotic songs in the beginning the event officially concluded the talk of his career, his masterpieces were program, the participants excitedly recorded in the mid sixties. But this squeezed in with the singer for a came forth as a result of an ailing photo shoot. In a brief conversation health that led him to make close after the program, as a tip for aspiring acquaintances with the guitar. In singers, he reveals that even today he 1961, he was faced with a non- exercises regularly- “A vocalist should malignant growth of polyp in his left be always be in a good shape if s/he vocal cord. This prevented him from wants to perform without any flaws.”

Think//Feature 84 Jhhochhen Flashbacks An integral part of Kathmandu’s identity has been sculpted by the experience of the 60s in the lane next to Basantapur. The project, Freak Street Revisited, looks to shed light on this past that very well lives into the present.

Text by Lucia de Vries Photo Courtesy: Ed van der Kooy

ifty years after Jhhochhen To those urban youth living through the 60s and 70s, and for But in some ways ‘Freak Street’, developed into Freak being the symbol for the hippie era, Street, an oral history some even the 80s, Freak Street meant inspiration and escape, never died. Kathmandu is one of the project aims to collect and an opportunity to meet soulmates from across the world. few places in the world where Bob the memories and images Marley can still be heard singing his Fof the hippie era. Its motto: ‘Let the redemption song. The introduction magic begin once more’. featuring the hippies of Kathmandu. started visiting Freak Street in the of youth to contemporary music led To those who hang out in Deepak: “We let our hair grow long 80s: “Meeting travelers from all over to the development of a lively music Jhhochhen or Freak Street nowadays and smoked dope. The whole thing the world opened up my mind and scene. Fashion became commonplace it is hard to believe that this once was a big learning experience. We helped me to understand that learning and so did English literature. Sexual was a world renowned destination. learned a lot of music, a lot of poetry is expanding conditional beliefs with and societal norms were challenged Songs were composed about this and met so many amazing people.” direct experience. Since then my life and the hippie era lay the foundation place. Restless youth around the world Or Jimmy Thapa, the artist who has become an adventure and the for today’s tourism industry. dreamed of reaching here. Those on introduced Nepali paper as a perfect discovery of Self.” For the Nepalese hippies ‘Freak the overland journey from Europe to art medium. He ran an outlet for However, the person who is Street’ meant different things. For Asia would long for the bakeries and hashish and drinks called Jimmy’s unanimously regarded as the Deepak it was all about learning and hang outs of Freak Street, the final Wagon. The artist got attracted to the quintessential Nepalese hippie is having fun. After a few years he ‘just destination. American poet Ira Cohen and his Trilochan Shrestha. The founder moved on’. He still has great respect for A generation of bohemian youth partner German actress Petra Vogt, of Ying Yang restaurant befriended the 60s generation: grew up with the promise of Freak who came on a short visit but fell countless bohemians before For others Freak Street was a Street. These flowerchildren will under the spell of the place ‘where it continuing his spiritual search as ‘Sun spiritual experience that continues till probably never forget the sight of the was not difficult to believe that, as long Baba’. “As a child I loved spending today. Jimmy combines his art with place after getting off the bus that as we remained, we would stay young time in Pashupatinath with the babas”, stargazing and healing while Trilochan brought them here all the way from forever writing poems touched by the says Trilochan, “Babas are the real continues his spiritual search through London or Amsterdam. magic of high tantric strivings under hippies, I have so much respect for meditation. But Freak Street was not only the blue cloud-filled skies’. them. Hippies are the sadhus of the They remind us of that famous song important to foreigners. To those Cohen, together with Velvet twentieth century.” in the musical, Hair, which expresses urban youth living through the 60s Underground drummer Angus “Apart from smoking dope we the hopes and aspirations of the Freak and 70s, and for some even the 80s, MacLise, followed bohemians such experimented with magic mushrooms. Street generation: Freak Street meant inspiration and as Ian Alsop, Francis Brooks and We listened to The Grateful Dead. I When the moon is in the seventh escape, and an opportunity to meet Simon White in developing small met many wonderful souls. One was house soulmates from across the world. press publications in Kathmandu. Eight Finger Baba, who at the age And Jupiter aligns with Mars Their lives were greatly influenced by Jimmy would occasionally join their of 84 introduced trance to Nepal,” Then peace will guide the planets the experience. No wonder they call poetry sessions in The Spiritcatcher recounts Trilochan. And love will steer the stars […] themselves ‘Freak Street graduates’. Bookshop, founded by John Chick. The hippie era came to a rather No more falsehoods or derisions Ask Deepak Rana what music Cohen encouraged Jimmy to abrupt halt in 1975. As part of a clean Golden living dreams of visions was played in Freak Street and he prepare illustrations for his Bardo up campaign for the coronation of Mystic crystal revelation breaks out in song. “Black magic Matrix series, printed on Nepali rice the late King Birendra, over 1000 And the minds true liberation woman”, “Let it be.” “The times paper. Jimmy: “Ira and Petra were flowerchildren were unceremoniously they are changin’.” As a teenager he larger than life. They were tall people loaded onto trucks and dropped The Freak Street Revisited project is an felt attracted to the music and the and always wore black. I joined Petra across the border in India. Some Freak initiative by Prabod Shrestha, Deepak ‘chicks’ of Freak Street. He joined the sometimes during her visits to the Street entrepreneurs were charged Rana and Lucia de Vries. The oral history full moon parties at The Bakery in cremation grounds. We used to talk with corrupting youth, and put in project focuses on collecting and preserving memories of the hippie era, from Nepalese Swayambhu, sleeping out in the open about astrology and sketched together. prison. Drugs were outlawed but at the hippies and bideshi bohemians who stayed with other smokers and music lovers. She was called bokshi by some Nepali same time the arrival of hard drugs behind. Together with his friends he was women. She didn’t mind – Petra from India and Thailand spoiled the Those who like to contribute their story recruited by Dev Anand to act in the enjoyed the effect she had on people.” scene. The flowerchildren increasingly or photographs can contact the team at 1971 movie Hare Ram Hare Krishna, And there is Prabod Shrestha. He felt sidelined. [email protected] 85 Entertainment//Friday Shop Fr!day Prints are hot this spring! Mix it with a pair ofsandals and a blouse for a casual outfit. 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This large brown leather hobo bagis essential to accommodate a busy girl’s essentials. Rs.6490 (40% off)

Also don’t forget to give your precious feet some air. Rs.1990 A watch is the (5% off) most important accessory a man can own. This bright watch radiates Shield yourself from the frosty a laid back and winds with this lightweight, fresh outlook trendy and technical windcheater. on life. Rs.6990 Cruise the street or park in style and These orange lush towels are Rs.14990 (10% off) ease with this multicolored skateboard. perfect to brighten your day. (20% off) Rs.9990 Rs.5990 (5% off) Available at Sastodeal.com “where the best deals hang out !” Entertainment//Friday Shop 96

U.S Polo Assn Discount Contact 4224971 This denim vest style 10% jacket with patches of the American flag has a certain distinct flair to it and exudes rugged masculinity. Rs.7799

Don’t worry about dressing yourself in strong vertical stripes because Remember to purchase it in neutral and it’s all about pattern matching and bold colors. The sweater vest can be this shirt speaks volumes for the adorned from work to weekend. Rs.4699 professional man. Rs.4399

Looking for something to beat the approaching heat, this parrot green top for women should do the trick. Rs.2999 Style your little one with these trendy red chinos. Rs.3299 This sleeveless jacket would be ideal to keep your cuties warm. Rs.4399

Since light washed denim has become quite the Camouflage print might need a bit of Pair this olive t-shirt with a sensation after its style revival, they are essential effort, but when you get it right you’ll monochromatic other half and you’re to complete your casual outfit.Rs.4699 definitely stand out of the crowd.Rs.2599 good as gold. Rs.2599

Entertainment//Flash Back 98

For the fifth year anniversary, we looked back at our first 5 issue to see what has changed Then then VS now and what hasn’t? 1 2 3 4

ots Ciney Gurung used to 3G service play on one of the “open mic” nights at Bourbon Room Restro-Bar Saurabh Jyoti Director, Jyoti Group Now How many pairs of Then Then Then suits do you own? Rumors of McDonalds Four Resorts reopening in Nepal Telecom All set to Then heading to Kathmandu Chitwan National Park establish ots 3G service 10 to 15 suits. Now Now Now Still a dream for many. All of them along with NT installed WCDMA based Now We almost lost KFC too. others are no longer 3G system which offers 384 Still 10. He further says: Let’s hope, by our 10th running inside Chitwan kbps of downloading and 64 “Congratulations on Fridays anniversary, we can National Park after kbps of uploading data speed. There is live music 5th Anniversary. Friday has totally say the popular Ministry of Forestry You can now Video call, watch everyday performaned by really grown but my suit eating chain is in town. refusing to renew the video of users’ choice which Subhani Moktan, Dikshya collection has not. No progress. lease agreement contract. are available in NT video Thapa and other bands. Still own only 10 suits.” server, watch live TV channel, connect to the internet.