705 2 - 8 May 2014 20 Pages Rs 50

#705 2 - 8 May 2014 20 pages Rs 50

The Inked Zone PAGE 10-11

PICS: JAN MØLLER HANSEN THE SETI TWO YEARS LATER FLOOD At 9:10am on Saturday, 5 May 2012, a huge Freedom wedge of rock fell off the south ridge of Annapurna 4. The ensuing avalanche and fl ood killed more than 72 people downstream. This has happened before, and it was nature’s warning about cataclysmic Himalayan of expression tsunamis in future. PAGE 16-17 ore than 80 tattoo artists from all over the world, including Japan, Thailand, SPECIAL India, Australia, and UK participated in the three-day Nepal Tattoo Convention INTERACTIVE Mlast week. This puts Kathmandu fi rmly on the world tattoo map, and is perhaps PACKAGE a refl ection of the freedom of expression granted by the interim constitution. nepalitimes.com However, on World Press Freedom Day on Saturday we may JEFFREY KARGEL need to remind ourselves that despite constitutional guarantees, JUST FREE both democracy and press freedom face restrictions. At a time EDITORIAL GAME of prolonged political transition, when the three pillars of PAGE 2 democracy are fragile, the media’s fourth pillar must help OF DRONES buttress the system. But the criminalisation of politics has encouraged self-censorship Psst. Unmanned aerial vehicles are here. and the press is, willingly or unwittingly, allowing itself to be a part of state-sponsored PAGE 15 witch-hunts. PRATEEK RAJBHANDARI/MONTAGE 2 EDITORIAL 2 - 8 MAY 2014 #705 JUST FREE

years of the peace process, the and constitutionally guaranteeed freedoms, media has repeatedly struggled to we see an inexplicable erosion of commitment protect not just its own freedom, to healthy public debate. There is an attempt but also the political rights of to justify controls, excuse the use of political citizens. violence, and instead of being a check on abuse of Many times over the past power the press allows itself to be a part of state- 60 years, the media has been at sponsored witch-hunts. the forefront of successive pro- Willingly or unwittingly, it plays cheerleader democracy movements in Nepal. to the state. It becomes an enthusiastic ally in We in the media have often been deflecting debate away from human rights to singled out for attacks by both the foreign investment in the media. The past weeks extreme left and the extreme right offer lessons to the proponents of a free press for this activist role. These two that constitutional guarantees are not enough to poles of the political spectrum protect freedom of expression. Freedom is like are by nature pro-populism and a rubber band, you have to stretch it to make it anti-pluralism, for control and work. Press freedom must be defended by its against transparency. We have maximum application. seen in our own recent history A society that doesn’t stand up for justice for how both the radical right and survivors and relatives of victims of the conflict left are in cahoots to squeeze the cannot guarantee social justice either. If the voice middle democratic space. of conflict victims can be silenced, what hope is n 3 May the world will mark Press Freedom Whatever Freedom House may say, one can’t there for journalists to be heard? When transitional Day. Although dedicated to journalists who be ‘partly free’. Freedom is an absolute. The mechanisms do not respect international laws, Ostruggle for the freedom to uncover the fourth estate’s role is to be a part of the checks and foreign investors will lose their confidence in the truth, the day actually commemorates the citizen’s balance in a democracy, the necessity of playing an rule of law. A media that deliberately misuses right to know. Journalists are only defending that adversarial (but not partisan) role to the power of freedoms to sow confusion and disinformation World Press right to information every individual must have the state. At times of prolonged post-war political cannot be a defender of fairness and justice. As to allow the system of democracy to function transition like the one we are going through now, we have seen elsewhere in region and the world, Freedom Day as designed. battered democratic institutions are trying to get xenophobia and ultra-nationalism is then the last is a timely Democracy needs participation of the people to back on their feet. The legislature struggles with refuge of scoundrels. vote so as to stimulate collective action for societal performance legitimacy, the executive is rent with In a society cursed by inequality, reminder for us betterment. But participation is not possible contradictions and infighting, the independence discrimination and exclusion, it is not as without free and open communication. For the of the judiciary (as we are seeing in the Supreme important for the media to be objective as it is in the Nepali Nepali media it has been one long struggle to create Court drama this week) itself is compromised by to be fair. To be fair is to give more weightage to an open society and defend press freedom. politicians. those who don’t have a voice, the downtrodden media to protect From the Rana period to 30 years of the It is at times like these, when the three and the left out. For tens of thousands of Nepali the freedom to partyless Panchayat system, through the post- pillars of democracy are fragile, that the media’s families who can’t yet have closure, the war never 1990 democracy years and the decade of conflict, fourth pillar must help buttress the system. ended. And if it hasn’t ended for them, it hasn’t be fair. the return of an autocratic king and the past seven Unfortunately, despite its long history of struggle ended for the rest of us either.

YOUR SAY www.nepalitimes.com

THE EVEREST SAGA If, indeed, a coordinated mechanism interest. Unless the demands come from higher peak fees to reduce crowding, WOUNDS OF WAR What does it mean if you summit a for change could be accepted and strictly 'climbing Sherpa guides' without reducing the number of expeditions Has anyone compiled a list of all known mountain by passing all the risk onto supported, it must determine priorities any infl uence from trekking operators and climbers allowed on the mountain, human rights abuses during the civil someone else (“Taking chances on in consideration of work opportunities and owners, we won’t be fi nding a and required pre-expedition experience war (“Haunted by ghosts of the past”, Chomolungma”, David Durkan, #704)? and long-term environmental effects decent solution for climbing Sherpa of clients. Rubeena Mahato, #704)? Which leads If the high altitude workers set up all before engaging in more focused guides. Tenzing to the deeper question: Was it a civil the ladders for you, are you really a deliberations about pay scales, pay Karsang Sherpa war, or are we calling it the ‘confl ict’? “mountaineer” in the traditional sense? equity, fees, expedition staff roles and The only good thing that the Namah I recognise that “Instant Everest” responsibilities, insurance, limitations David Durkan's enthusiasm is vital offi cials of Nepali government are Compensation of human loss by brings Nepal, the Solo Khumbu on the number of climbers, scheduling, to raise important questions in this good at is corruption (“A dangerous money is not a remedy for victim. region, and high altitude workers much vetting of climbing companies and other serious matter of people losing their place to work,” Jon Gangal, #704). All @raj_srn needed income but I feel that a real aspects. I cannot stress enough that lives at work and families being left Sherpas should unite and go on strike re-assessment of value for the work without a trans-stakeholder approach, behind. At the same time, the tourism and cancel all future expeditions. This MUSEUM REVISITED and risk that these high altitude engaging multiple stakeholders industry is vital to Nepal. It is easy for is the only way to teach a lesson to After reading this and seeing the workers carry will only happen when in reasoned, patient deliberations us westerners to say “take the mountain Nepali offi cials. photos I can't wait to pay a visit to they get much more recognition for the leading to coherent policy formulation back to us climbers”. What right do we The recent disaster on Everest that the Patan Museum (“Patan’s living support they provide to visitors who and – essentially – implementation, have? And what would that mean to the saw more than a dozen Sherpas killed museum, Hariz Baharudin and Toh Ee fl ock to Nepal with Everest in their improvements in the mountaineering people who work in the tourist industry is a grim reminder of the tremendous Ming, #704). It’s been a while. eyes. context will remain wanting. and to the sons, daughters and wives risks these people face on expeditions. Saroj Shrestha Sangita S IGS who need food, shelter and education. (“Dangerous business,” Editorial, It’s time for action, not retraction. It is #704). Over the years, even amateurs From what I have seen, it’s This Everest tragedy must in the We have not realised the appalling time to address safety and mountain have climbed the peak, thanks to the gorgeous. same way not be blamed on – as conditions the Nepali people have to workers rights, such as education, Sherpas. Stuti Basnyat some writers have done – solely on endure on the world’s highest mountain payment and insurance. It’s said that the Sherpas literally pay scales or fi nancial inequities or so others can earn great money. The Randi Skaug carry most of the mountaineers from job responsibilities or fi nancial greed writer is right to challenge injustice. abroad on their shoulders to the top. or inhumane selfi shness by foreign Punya There would be no “Instant Everest” Yet for all the hard work, they’re not Weekly Internet Poll #705 climbers or incompetent bureaucracy if the government did not want it. It is the adequately paid. Therefore, in light of Q. What do you value more? or incoherent expedition planning by There are a lot of good points made government’s duty to ensure that Nepali the grave risks they face on the slope government and so on. All of these by David Durkan. But the points would parties i.e. high altitude workers are of the peak, it’s only right that they Total votes: 353 elements may have had a part to have been better made if the author had compensated fairly and are not abused ought to be adequately compensated. play and, therefore, any solutions for kept the sarcasm, cynicism and hate by richer, cleverer foreign parties. Hari Prasad Wagle mitigating the effects of future disasters out of his writing and presented it more Satya Nepali must address all stakeholders and objectively. The relationship between all potentially contributing factors Paul Krugman There is no need to run down climbers and porters must change, as a whole—a system, and not as other climbers with this judgmental, formally (employment conditions and individual aspects to be dealt with by The joint demands from Everest holier-than-thou attitude. Toning down insurance) and informally (“Instant diverse departments, agencies and Base Camp had many operators and the rhetoric would have made your Everest,” Bhrikuti Rai and Matt Miller, Weekly Internet Poll # 705 other stakeholders in an uncoordinated owners as some of the signatories, points much more persuasive: better #704). To vote go to: www.nepalitimes.com fashion. and this brings an absolute confl ict of work conditions for the Nepali staff, @pigreen Q. How do you rate Sushil Koirala's premiership?

Publisher and Chief Editor: Kunda Dixit Associate Editor: Tsering Dolker Gurung | Online Editor: Bhrikuti Rai | Design: Kiran Maharjan Published by Himalmedia Pvt Ltd | Patan Dhoka, Lalitpur | GPO Box 7251 Kathmandu [email protected] | www.nepalitimes.com | www.himalmedia.com | Tel: 01-5005601-08 Fax: +977-1-5005518 Marketing: Arjun Karki, Surendra Sharma [email protected] | Advertorials: Ram Krishna Banjara | Subscriptions: Santosh Aryal [email protected] Nepali Times on Facebook Follow @nepalitimes on Twitter Printed at Jagadamba Press | 01-5250017-19 | www.jagadambapr.com 2 - 8 MAY 2014 #705 3 4 NATION 2 - 8 MAY 2014 #705

Saroj Mishra, the minister of education Chitralekha Yadav wasn’t even aware of the confrontation until very recently when she came on an official visit to Janakpur. DHANUSHA -- While 50,000 The NC’s Ram Krishna plus students who gave their SLC Yadav, who won 2013 elections examinations last month from Dhanusha-2, did raise anxiously await their results, the issue on the CA floor, but 1,070 students from three centres most Tarai-based parties and in Dhanusha district still have politicians have remained their Social Studies paper to shockingly mum. The future of complete. thousands of students is at stake, many of whom see passing their SLC exam as a way to break out of the cycle of poverty despite the staggeringly low pass rates. It is at times like these when political parties’ grandiose HERE WE GO promises of promoting the Trishna Rana Madhesi identity and bringing the concerns of historically marginalised groups into the On the early morning of national mainstream ring 25 March, during a quotidian hollow. security check at centre The unfortunate event at ‘Kha’ in Yadukoha, parents Yadukoha and Dhabauli once became unnerved when police SURESH YADAV/NAGARIK again highlight unwarranted frisked their children, which then police brutality and impunity led to a heated argument and in the region. The police could scuffle between the guardians have fired tear gas or used and a female police. The rubber bullets to disperse the tension spread to the other two A Tarai test case crowd. Instead they resorted centres and, unable to control to firing live rounds into an the belligerent crowd, security Police firing at an exam centre in the Tarai and apathy of politicians unarmed group of agitated personnel opened fire at the exam parents and students. hall in nearby Dhabauli injuring make slogans about uplifting marginalised groups ring hollow “Yes, parents and students two students. were also at fault, but so far Seeking to defuse the crisis, past weeks, student unions have board with decades of experience the Office of the Controller of nobody has even bothered to officials from the CDO, District shut down schools in the district does not seem to have a clear Examinations in Kathmandu find out who was responsible Education Office, and the police and announced a general strike to action plan or guideline in the to let the students retake their for the shooting. The state is assured students and parents pressurise the government to take case of an emergency when exams Social Studies exam,” says CDO trying to cover up the police’s that there would be a retest quick action. are disrupted and questions are Hari Prasad Mainali. “Now it is misdeeds” says Mishra. and convinced them to let A three-member probe released early like in Dhanusha. up to the SLC board to decide.” The government needs the remaining exams proceed committee set up by the Ministry “We didn’t make any promises The state’s lackadaisical to move swiftly and make a peacefully. of Education arrived in Janakpur of retest that day because we attitude and sluggish response decision not only on the fate However, more than a month on Wednesday to assess the don’t have the authority to make have disheartened students of the 1,070 students, but also after the event, the future of the situation and prepare a report. It such decisions. We told guardians and guardians. According to prosecute the police personnel students remains in limbo. In the is baffling that an examination that we would recommend student leader and youth activist who pulled the trigger.

One of the judges from the Appellate Court recommended by the Judicial Council is Cholendra Samsher Rana, who was named for action by three divisional benches, including one of former Justifying the justices Chief Justice Khil Raj Regmi. Rana was accused of giving a clean chit to many corrupt figures when he was in the Supreme Court. BINITA DAHAL The choice of Gopal Prasad Parajuli, Jagadish Sharma Poudel and other judges over fter a three-year delay, the Judicial serving temporary Supreme Court justices Council finally recommended eight who have performed well in the past three to Anames for positions in the Supreme five years has raised eye brows. Temporary Court last week, and immediately plunged justices bypassed by the Judicial Council were into a huge row over its choice of disputed endorsed twice in past parliamentary hearings. figures. And while there are two vacant posts The Judicial Council led by Chief remaining for permanent and almost ten posts Justice Damodar Prasad Sharma, included for temporary justices, the Judicial Council Law Minister Narahari Acharya, Justice has recommended only eight career judges. The Judicial Ram Kumar Prasad Shah, and two lawyers The remaining two permanent posts have Upendra Keshari Neupane and Khem apparently been left vacant for two members Council and Narayan Dhungana. All had reportedly recommended by the then Nepali Congress- pushed their own candidates for the vacant led Nepal Bar Association and the Jhalanath the Law positions in the Supreme Court. Khanal cabinet respectively. Minister have The appointment of the controversial Initially, the Judicial Council had asked judges have raised questions of Nepal Bar Associaiton and Legal Department come under accountability of the Judicial Council itself, to recommend ten and five figures respectively with blistering attacks from the Nepal Bar to be justices. In the end, the Judicial Council fire for their Association, the second largest party in ignored those names and chose controversial parliament the UML, former chief justices, career judges, paving the way for them to be Supreme and the legal community at large. ultimately named Chief Justice. Analysts have pointed out that at a time The Judicial Council has been embroiled Court when the performance of the executive and in controversy in the past for appointing the legislature leave much to be desired justices with political affiliations. There was nominations during the constitution-writing process, the an infamous case two years ago of some judges role of an independent judiciary becomes appointed to the appellate court immediately even more important. However, they say, going to the UML headquarters to thank party the new appointments will raise questions leaders. about the integrity and independence of the The recent retirement of five temporary Supreme Court itself. Supreme Court justices had left only five Former Chief Justices Min Bahadur serving justices including the Chief Justice Rayamajhi and Anup Raj Sharma have resulting in a massive backlog of 17,000 cases. been sharply critical of the appointments, Chief Justice Sharma and other members of questioning the motives of the Judicial the Judicial Council are under heavy pressure Council in bypassing temporary justices of to clarify the criteria for their appointments. the Supreme Court, who have been at their The controversy means that the ratification of jobs for the last five years and distinguished the nominations by parliament will also run DIWAKAR CHETTRI themselves with some landmark rulings. into trouble. 2 - 8 MAY 2014 #705 BUSINESS 5 BIZ BRIEFS FIFA Madness To go or not to go Four lucky customers of Hyundai will get to enjoy an all-expenses paid trip more expensive. It is a matter of to Brazil to catch the ﬁ nal match of perception that a UK degree is FIFA World Cup 2014. Winners will be selected from the pool of customers more internationally recognised. who have purchased Hyundai vehicles under Laxmi Intercontinental’s latest The British College tries to change scheme ‘Journey to Brazil FIFA World Cup 2014’. that by being practical, affordable, and ensuring the same quality of Awesome twosome instruction, says Kandel. After a 7-year hiatus, Tuborg is back with its Maha The Nepali faculty is screened Jatra gala celebration. Headlining the festivities will by university officials prior to be well-loved comedy duo Madan Krishna Shrestha ever teaching a class to meet and Hari Bansha Acharya. The Jatra starts on 26 May UK standards. There are guest at Nepal Pragya Pratishtan in Kathmandu. and visiting professors from UK as well. The British College currently started offering A-level, Gear up undergraduate and postgraduate United Traders Syndicate is organising level studies at its glaringly large a test drive week for those who want building in Thapatali two years to experience the feel of driving the ago. 11th Generation Toyota Corolla. Those Many Nepali students go to interested can head over to Vaidya’s UK because it is easier to get a student visa and stay behind. Organisation of Industries and Trading Some don’t even bother to enroll Houses in Tinkune, Kathmandu for the free trial which lasts until 4 May. when they get to London and stay on illegally. But with Britain Winning streak tightening the loophole, the Qatar Duty Free (QDF) has been If Nepalis can’t go to UK colleges, it seems UK number has come down to 3,000 named Travel Retailer from a peak of 20,000 in 2009. of The Year for the third consecutive colleges will come to Nepal “I personally have seen many year, at the 2014 DFNI (Duty Free students who went to the UK News International) Global Awards for Travel Retail Excellence. “QDF is totally ore than 3,000 Nepali to convince Nepali applicants that to study but actually wound up committed to providing travelers with the highest quality of service,” said students went to UK it is 10 times cheaper to get a UK getting nothing. They wasted their Senior Vice President Keith Hunter. Mfor higher studies last education in Nepal than in UK. time and they couldn’t get work,” year, and although student Kandel went to the University said Kandel. “If I had the option Sale! visa rules have been tightened, of Greenwich in the UK 15 years of getting a UK degree in Nepal I Kunal furnishing is oﬀ ering discount up to Britain is still a much sought ago when he was just 18. After would have done it myself.” 50 per cent on a range of furnishing items after destination for education. establishing the South London Kandel has his sights on not including curtains, rugs, furnitures and other selected items. The sale began just Nepali students, but ensuring All that may change with the College in Britain and dabbling in from the New Year. establishment of insitutions various other businesses, this is his that his college is a centre of like The British College in first venture in Nepal. “I wanted to excellence that can also attract Kathmandu. do something for the country that I foreign students. At present Shoot all If Nepalis can’t go to UK was born in,” he said. there are six foreign students in a Triveni Byapar, the authorised distributor of colleges, it seems UK colleges However, people still prefer student body of 530. Panasonic Appliances for Nepal launched will come to Nepal. The British a degree from UK even if it is Matt Miller Panasonic HC-MDH2 video camera recently. College is offering a British according to the company, the camera is suited education through its fully for shooting all events including weddings, seminars, documentaries and franchised partnership with UK- sports events. Leeds Metropolitan University and University of West England at its campus in Kathmandu. “I wanted to create an opportunity for the normal Nepalis who still want to get the UK qualification, but in a much more affordable way,” said Rajen Kandel of The British College. Nepali born Kandel speaks with a British accent and it is his job 6 NATION 2 - 8 MAY 2014 #705

To be sure, media in Nepal has grown from strength to strength since 1990. It survived the absolute monarchy, and was always at the forefront of the struggle for democracy and press freedom. It outlasted autocratic regimes that tried to stifle the people’s voice. It has exposed wrongdoing in high places, exposed human rights violations during the conflict and kept the issue alive afterwards. After King Gyanendra’s information blackout and censorship, media fought back with blank op-eds and empty editorials. The Nepali media has played its adversarial role, standing firm against powerful regimes. Today, the media is free from state censorship and journalists do not face an overt threat from the government. However, a weak law and order situation, insecurity, the political-economic interests of media bosses have turned many journalists from watchdogs into lapdogs. When reporters do get their salaries, they are too low to motivate them to do a better job. The Internet now provides a platform to bypass official controls, self-censorship and corporate infuence. The news of VAT-evading business houses and shoddy government deals may not find headlines in the Bypassing the bosses squeamish mainstream media, but journalists are blowing the whistle online. The content is On World Press Freedom Day, there are more reasons shared and magnified through social networking sites. As to be optimistic than pessimistic about the Nepali media the internet and smartphone penetration rates go up, n 3 May, we mark World statement, making familiar the ex-minister’s past criminal forced the Ministry of Forests to the information revolution Press Freedom Day. The pledges. The next day, we will go record. But not with the same take immediate action against will transform the country, Oweek will be replete with back to doing what we do best: prominence as it earlier printed illegal sand mining and stone strengthen the Nepali media and self-praise by journalists, owners making the most dim-witted look his garlanded picture after he crushing industries doesn't make with it democracy. of big media patting themselves grand in overblown profiles, won the CA elections riding from headlines anymore. That's not In her recently published on the backs for upholding reprinting press releases and Dhanusha on money and muscle because all illegal industries have book The Past as Present: being satisfied with the shallow, power. Both were news, packaged been shut, just that the country Forging Contemporary Identities superficial and puerile. differently but sold to the same has moved on and so has the Through History, prominent Two-and-one-half decades public. media. Indian historian Romila Thapar into the free market, news has When the Khil Raj government The beauty of 21st century points towards the need for become another commodity to be proposed Lok Man Singh Karki corporate media is that it cashes multiple interpretations of bought and sold, and what seems as CIAA chief last year, apart in on tales of glory as well as historic events, since what has to matter increasingly is not its from a fringe section, the entire heart wrenching tragedies. been documented as history in content but how it is packaged. media fraternity was up in arms Celebrating movers and shakers the mainstream and academic BY THE WAY Two months ago, the Centre against the appointment of a then becomes as necessary as writings thus far is at best a Anurag Acharya for Investigative Journalism where man with questionable integrity getting the poor to enact their perspective and at worst an I am program manager exposed a in a constitutional body. A year misery on camera. Revenue is incomplete narrative. democracy and defending people’s politician for his explicit role in later, all is forgotten and the same governed by page views, hits and The powerful of society right to information. a terror attack which killed five media is highlighting his preachy news stand sales, so media creates may have been privileged in Editorials will be written and and injured scores of innocent remarks on good governance, his its own celebrities to perpetuate creating a selective history as newly elected functionaries at the people in Janakpur. Since then, past record air brushed over. itself. The public service role of Thapar claims, but their days of Federation of Nepali Journalists the mainstream media has An investigative report on the media is sidelined as it serves privilege over public memory (FNJ) will reprint last years’ brought out bits and pieces of plunder of the Chure forests that corporate interests. are over. This long spell of dry weather is not unusual for mid-April, but as the heat builds up in the Indo- Gangetic plains touching 40 Celsius in Dhangadi KATHMANDU and Nepalganj, there will be more chances of daytime cloud buildup. Kathmandu Valley will see some passing thunderstorms through the weekend, after long hot and hazy days. But because there is deﬁ cient moisture on the westerlies, it won’t bring much by way of precipitation. Which is bad news for living in Kathmandu’s dust bowl. FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY 30° 27° 27° #705 2 - 8 May 2014 14° 14° 13° MAGIC WITH The guy every girl wants on their BRUSH wedding day

HARIZ BAHARUDIN

yet,” says Sakil who is currently materialised in 2009 when Miss “They know that I am a focused busy mentoring the 20 Nepal Zenisha Moktan asked person and don’t do things just on a contestants of the Miss Nepal him to be her mentor for her whim,” he says. “Also, one is never too pageant which is all set to take Miss World Cup bid. He was 17 old to study so I thought college could place on 2 May. and self-taught. wait,” he adds. This doesn't sound like the But this was not his first Although, the pageantry world is his Sakil people told me about. job. In Singapore, where he first love, today Sakil is known more as a I’d heard Sakil was loud, was born and stayed until the MUA guy. TSERING DOLKER GURUNG opinionated, and extremely completion of middle school, “He is a thorough professional,” says critical of everything in front he earned pocket money one happy client who recently booked of his eyes. I was even warned putting henna on women in his him for a cousin’s wedding. t 21, Sakil Kunwar is Kathmandu's by friends to clean up a little neighbourhood and waiting Besides making brides happy on most eligible bachelor. Every girl in before my interview with this makeup tables at Pizza Hut. their wedding day, Sakil also freelances Atown wants this talented hair and guru. A few minutes into the interview I did “Growing up in Singapore taught me to as a stylist. He recently styled Odhani makeup artist. notice him studying my face. Thankfully he be forward looking and independent at a boutique’s collection for the TGIF fashion Not to get married to, but to paint them decided to keep his comments to himself young age. I haven’t asked for money from week and has a weekly column in M&S. pretty on their wedding day. Photo features and I was saved from the embarrassment you since I turned 17, hai daddy,” he says “Sakil has grown into an amazing of models look incomplete without crediting of hearing him go on about my amateur looking to his father, an ex-Gurkha officer, artist, he knows how to work on different him. There isn’t any ‘IT girl' who hasn’t attempt at caking my face. who is seated nearby. faces, keeps himself in tune with the called him for a word of advice or two. Is diplomacy something being in this Since the start, his family was supportive global makeup trends and is extremely The Singapore-educated Sakil, however, trade has taught him? “Yes, and no,” he of everything he did. His father even hardworking,” says Malvika Subba (pic, remains unfazed by all the attention. In all answers. “I had rubbed many people the accompanied him to India for a makeup bottom right), former Miss Nepal. modesty, he doesn’t even believe he’s all wrong way, very early on in my career so I course. After graduating high school in 2011 Sakil also worked with Miss Nepal that great. But top models, actors, happy have learnt to be careful with my words,” he from Rato Bangala School, while his friends 2011 Shristi Shrestha, who became the brides and bridesmaids all think so. admits. went to universities abroad, his parents first to make it to the top 30 at the Miss “I am grateful that people appreciate my Sakil always dreamt of becoming didn’t question his decision to work fulltime World pageant. "I believe I may have work but I am not sure if I am that good as of a beauty pageant trainer. That dream in Nepal. played a hand in that," he says. 8 EVENTS DINING

Cha cha cha, People of Karnali, learn one month's worth of salsa in four the Gallery Mitini opens to the public days. with an exhibition of photographs of the Rs 1,000 for singles, Rs 1,500 for Karnali region by Jiban Bhai Images. 4 couples, 28 April onwards, Monday to May onwards, SEA Centre, Lajimpat Thursday,7.30 to 8.30am/5 to 6pm/6 to 7pm, Salsa Dance Academy, Bhatbhateni In search of education, screening of a documentary on the Open house, diffi culties of getting a good education in featuring the work of artists Arpita Shakya, Karnali. Ashuram Khaiju, and Palpasa Manandhar. 3 May, 4 to 6pm, SEA Centre, Lajimpat Runs till 7 July, 11am to 6pm, Gallery Scooter Diva Cup, MCube Chakupat Open bazaar, safely race fellow female scooter riders Capital Grill, and win the Scooter Diva Cup 2014. new and old entrepreneurs share their this American style diner off ers a large Buddha Jayanti, Film Lab, 3 May, 10am , Monster Bash, Kupandol experiences. celebrate the birth of the great learn fi lm history, storytelling, 3 May, 11am to 3pm, SEA Centre, assortment of appetisers and entrees to philosopher in the country of his birth. scriptwriting, cinematography, editing, Lajimpat suit everyone’s tastes. Bhatbhateni 14 May project handling and network with professionals. Support the cause, Chez Caroline, Retrospective, Runs to 15 May, Docskool, Gaurighat, gather with like-minded fans to declare exquisite food, glorious sunshine a look back at the oeuvre of senior register at (01)4251335 your love and support for the Nepali and more. artist and cubism enthusiast Surendra cricket team. 9am to 10pm, Baber Mahal Revisited, Pradhan. Runs till 18 July, Park Gallery, Women water seeds, 1 May, 10am, Basantapur (01)4263070/4187 Pulchok, parkgallery.com.np an exhibition of oil paintings by Australian artist Fern York. Salt & Pepper, Ubhauli, 2 to 8 May, 10am to 4pm, Kathmandu espresso, mocha, latte, frappuccino, celebrate the arrival of summer with Contemporary Arts Centre, Patan Museum, cocktails, liquor, beers and fl avoured the Kirat people of Nepal. 14 May kathmanduarts.org, (01)5544880 Life is flow, shishas, with an outdoor lake-view an exhibition by photographer terrace. Susanna Ferran and poet Frederic Lakeside, Pokhara, (061)463484, Rampwalk, Hoff man accompanied by sound healer 9846210568, graduates from Design Chaitanyashree. Runs to 22 May, Image www.saltandpeppernepal.com Academy Mitini will Ark Gallery, Kulimha, Patan Darbar showcase their work at a Square Public Cave, fashion show. while its pizzas, sizzlers, and spring rolls 3 May, 12.30 to 13.30pm, By winds and tides, are a hit among customers, the main SEA Centre, Lajimpat an art exhibition. attraction is karaoke. Runs to 12 May, Alliance Francaise, Teku Dihikopatan, Pokhara, 9856032958 Rashomon, Fuji Bakery, watch the Nepali stage adaptation of one Motherland across the sky, tucked in Chakupat this bakery off ers of cinema's greatest whodunits. a solo exhibition of the works of poet and homemade goodies like apple pie, pain Rs 200, runs to 10 May, 5.15pm, Mandala artist Sandhya Regmi. Nepal Art Council, du chocolat, and banana cake. Thaetre except Mondays Babarmahal Chakupat, Lalitpur 2 - 8 MAY 2014 #705 9 MUSIC GETAWAYS

Byanjan Grill, Barahi Jungle Lodge, its open patio is a great place to sit, enjoy the fi rst eco-jungle lodge of Chitwan a book, take in the view, and gorge on directly overlooks the Chitwan National delicious cuisine as hunger kicks in. Park, spa, boutique guest room, Barahi Chok, Lakeside-6, Pokhara, individual and two-in –one private villas, (061)466271 including a suite with a private swimming pool. Andrauli, West Chitwan, Saigon Pho, www.barahijunglelodge.com spacious interior with authentic Vietnamese dishes. Lajimpat Atithi Resort, a perfect place to stay, nearby pool, BOL Chopstix, massage, sauna, and delicious food savoury Asian food cooked in true Chinese of your choice. elebrate the resistance poetry of Faiz footsteps of Khan Sahib Mehdi Hasan, fashion sure to charm and impress. Try Shantipatan, Lakeside, Pokhara, CAhmed Faiz with renowned Pakistani Begum Akhtar, Mukhtar Begum and the famous drums of heaven. Kumaripati, (61)466760, (01)4002077 singer Tina Sani. Discover Faiz as the Farida Khanum. In 2003, she received the (01)5551118 writer of romantic poetry, and the staunch 'President's Pride of Performance' award Rashid in Kathmandu, Glacier Hotel, advocate of liberty, equality and justice from Pakistan, and India decorated her go watch the great Indian vocal maestro good value and friendly service for in the left political tradition. His ‘nuskhae with the President of India’s award for Ustad Rashid Khan live, accompanied by travelers on the lap of Lake Phewa. wafa’ or ‘prescription for love’ will transport ‘Outstanding Contribution to Music'. Jyoti Goho, Satyajit Talwalkar, Murad Ali Gaurighat, Lakeside, Pokhara, you into a world where peace is possible. Khan, Yaswanth Golcha, Manoj Gautam, (061)-463722, www.glaciernepal.com 7 May, 6 to 8pm, Yala Maya Kendra, Patan and Salikram Ghimire. Tina Sani has been singing professionally Rs 1,000/2,000/3,000/5,000, 23 May, since 1979 and has trained with Ustad Featuring Iqbal Hussain on harmonium, 5.45pm onwards, Royal Academy Hall Nizamuddin Khan Sahib of the Delhi Shyam Nepali on sarangi, Nagendra Rai gharana, and later followed in the on fl ute and Pramod Upadhaya on table. Dance-mandu, Little Italy, party with 20 sets of performers from go vegetarian at this new Italian food Nepal and India, with other attractions chain and don’t forget to end your meal like cocktail bar, children's play area, with the chef’s special,chocolate bomb. djembe jamming, and a fi re juggling Darbar Marg Stockholm travelling show. 17 May, 10am onwards, Norling Restaurant, Darbar Marg Stopping by Kathmandu on their Asian tour of Thailand, Malaysia, and China are Kripa Unplugged, Postiljonen, an electronic dream pop trio young aspiring musicians give their own from Stockholm. Featuring Norwegian renditions of classics. vocalist Mia Bře alongside Swedish multi- youtube.com/user/KripaUnplugged instrumentalists Daniel Sjörs and Joel Nyström Holm, the band released their Starry Night BBQ, Buddha Maya Gardens Hotel, debut album 'Skyer' in 2013 to critical Lal Durbar Restaurant, catch Ciney Gurung live as you chomp on add value to your travel in Lumbini acclaim. Don't miss out a chance to catch authentic Nepali dinner with cultural your meat stick. with a stay at probably the best hotel in them live. shows. Rs 1,499, 7pm onwards, Fridays, the area. Hotel Yak & Yeti, Darbar Marg, Shambala Garden Café. Hotel Shangri-La, Lumbini, (71)580220, 9801033109, May 9, 7.30pm, House of Music, Thamel (01)4248999, [email protected] (01)4412999 (Ext. 7520/7515) [email protected] www.postiljonenmusic.com 10

The Inked Zone

PHOTOS: JAN MØLLER HANSEN

ntricate, snaking tattoos, tongue piercings, mohawks and body modifi cations of all kinds were on full display at the 4th International Nepal Tattoo Convention that concluded on 27 April. IMore than 80 tattoo artists from all over the ART ON BODY: world, including Japan, Thailand, India, Australia, and UK participated in the three-day event, which A tattoo artist works on an saw hundreds of tattoo enthusiasts in attendance. intricate face tattoo. Before even stepping in, visitors were greeted 1 by the distinctly audible, low buzz of the tattoo A Japanese tourist gets her fi rst needle as it danced across these human canvases. tattoo at the convention. All around, customers were splayed out in various 2 positions at tattoo booths patiently waiting for Jocke and his wife from Sweden the designs to be etched permanently onto their are both tattoo enthusiasts. skin. The mood was generally festive, with many 3 customers lapping up the attention as they showed Elin is an internationally off their body tats, and one even gamely winking for 4acclaimed tattoo artist from the camera. Sweden. One of the highlights was a body suspension show performed by a group of artists from North Raul, Alex and his wife from Team Suspension and Indigenak Modifi cation 5Spain strike a pose for the Industries from Spain. Aptly titled ‘Tolerance of camera. Pain’, attendees were left gasping visibly in shock during the show when artists were hoisted up into A woman adds a new tattoo to mid-air via hooks pierced into their bare backs. her collection. Organised by Nepal Tattoo and supported by 6 Mu’az Entertainment and Mohan’s Tattoo Inn, the Raul from Spain shows his full convention was truly a great celebration of the art 7back tattoo. form that is both appreciated and shunned in equal measures. 7 2 - 8 MAY 2014 #705 11

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the film seem weak. For example, Bibek’s wooing of Maiyya isn’t convincing, Kaji’s sidekicks are often redundant, and the gangster father passes off as a brute and not a formidable nemesis who has amassed fortunes by conning others. In retrospect, the Bollywood film Delhi Belly and the two Guy Ritchie movies it drew from are good reminders of what Gurung could have done with the plot. Still there are other reasons to appreciate Kabaddi. A day after it was released, its distributors deemed facilities at one cinema inadequate and had the HAPPENINGS MUST SEE confidence to remove KABADDIlapstick seems to be a Basnet) makes Kaji’s efforts the film from being screened. And, must in Nepali comedies. look amateurish and the each of if reports are true, the film’s crew SIn Nepali television, from them plot moves, as if they were exchanged salaries for stakes in the subtly scripted MaHa series playing kabaddi, to run off with the film’s profits, which means to popular TV shows like Meri Maiyya. filmmakers are now willing to take Bassai, the purposely loud The comedy gives way to a risks to finance their own projects. acting is exaggerated by absurd bit of drama when Bibek succeeds The producers of Kabaddi characters that have a penchant and the film shifts to Kathmandu. made Loot in 2012 and fortunately for crudeness. In our recent films, It turns out Bibek was previously for them the witty one-liner physical comedy has been refined cheated by Maiyya’s father, a formula is still fresh. Underneath by Daya Hang Rai who has to do gangster who runs an overseas the rustic humour, Kabaddi is a so little to get everyone smiling. labour racket, and he went all show of two halves that suffers It is precisely Rai’s cocksure the way to Mustang to abduct the considerably once the action but stumbling misfit of a hero daughter and obtain a ransom moves to Kathmandu and the that drives Ram Babu Gurung’s as revenge. Then, in a show of story becomes feel-good and BIKASH DWARE new film Kabaddi. Kaji (played commitment, the bumbling Kaji predictable. FINALLY HERE: Airport officials gather around the Chinese made Modern Ark by Rai) is a 30-year-old good for arrives in Kathmandu looking But like its predecessor Loot, 60 (MA60) aircraft gifted to Nepal Airlines Corporation by China on Monday. nothing son of the village chieftain for his one true love and rather Kabaddi will succeed in theatres who needs help from friends to coincidentally meets Bibek on his despite its flaws because Nepali chase Maiyya (Rishma Gurung). first night in the capital. Hilarity audiences crave a good laugh, For her part, she is trying to avoid ensues as both are forced to especially when it comes in their marriage with Kaji and wants to cooperate. own language. leave Mustang for Kathmandu to Ram Babu Gurung, who also study. The arrival of a relatively wrote this film, invests a lot of nepalitimes.com sophisticated city boy Bibek screen time to make us laugh, Watch trailer (played by Loot director Nischal and as a result other aspects of

DEVAKI BISTA DEAR MUM: Women pay respect to their deceased mothers by lighting lamps on the occassion of Mother’s Day at Pasupati on Tuesday.

BIKRAM RAI THINK INK: A tattoo artist is busy at work at the 4th International Nepal Tattoo Convention which concluded on Sunday.

DEVAKI BISTA HEAR US: Women’s rights activists shout slogans at a rally in Anamnagar on Monday demanding stern actions against perpetrators of violence against women. 2 - 8 MAY 2014 #705 13 The face of faceless art f you need a break from the hustle and bustle of waterless and powerless Kathmandu, you may want to duck into the Iretrospective of artist Surendra Pradhan at the Park Gallery at Pulchok. The relaxing exhibit is a window into the world you just left. On the street outside, the chariot of Machendranath is getting its finishing touches, and a long queue of motorcycles is waiting for fuel at a petrol pump down the road. Surendra Pradhan is one of Nepal’s greatest modern artists and the exhibition showcases some of his most striking creations from the past 30 years. Influenced by cubist greats such as Pablo Picasso and Henry Matisse, it is Pradhan’s obvious Nepali influences and emphasis that distinguish his work. ‘Surendra Pradhan – A Retrospective’ begins with his early watercolours and woodcuts made when he was a young student at the JJ School of Art in Mumbai. Scenes of TOH EE MING an ocean or a clean city street betray his European what Pradhan is known for. A musical band wearing They are familiar, and even without a face depicted on their influences. REVIEW Nepali topis with drums hanging at their waists, and head, or only a single eye, we know who they are. The people depicted in these predominantly a spattering of tika on the forehead of the subjects Together, the 40 pieces of Pradhan’s art paint the picture pastoral scenes are not the focus however, nor are are just the obvious examples of the influence and of Nepal. Each painting is a window, and what it frames stands they European. They are like the people you see everyday in expression of Nepal in his work. on its own. Each parade scene and gossiping neighbours your peripheral vision, but hardly notice. They are carrying Displayed in a two floor exhibit, the works resemble stands alone. Each is a window into life in Surendra Pradhan’s water across a green field, two friends chatting outside a mosaics or stained class windows. A combination of bright native land, and his identity. storefront in the town square. They are identifiable by their colours and earth tones, along with broad sweeping curves Matt Miller familiar setting, but they are faceless. meeting sharp points, characterises each painting. Where the This faceless theme carries over to the main portion of figure of a mother ends and her baby begins is inseparable. Surendra Pradhan – A Retrospective the exhibit. Walk through the tasteful open-air courtyard to But the faceless subjects are the most unifying and powerful Park Gallery, Pulchok experience the Aha moment. It is obvious these paintings are theme. The identity of the mother and baby is not important. Sunday to Friday, 10.30AM to 6PM

served as a decent base for the mapo tofu (Rs 330). The mapo tofu, with pork mince and tofu in a flavorsome aromatic sauce, is a satisfying dish and one that I’d go back for. The same cannot be said about the fish in hot garlic sauce (Rs 360) though. These tasteless overcooked fish balls were dunked in a sauce whose main or a place that claims to be ingredient was unmistakably the shopping and eating cheap tomato ketchup. In a word- Fcentre of Kathmandu, Darbar terrible! Marg is seriously lacking in good The verdict: Located in the restaurants. There are many places Sherpa Mall at Darbar Marg, but the quality of their food and Zanzibar is a convenient spot service, barring a few notable to meet up with friends or for exceptions (Koto anyone?), are a quick lunch. Also head here usually sub-par. when you want to seek comfort

So it was with great trepidation PICS: RUBY TUESDAY in Chinese food of the type that that I agreed to go to The Zanzibar THE ZANZIBAR we grew up with- the South Asian Restaurant. Do not, like me, more than just a plain platter of hybrid kind. be misled by the name for if cold meat. The tomato sauce with Ruby Tuesday ‘Zanzibar’ conjures up images of the cauliflower was bursting with exotic African dishes lush with RESTAURANT flavors, tangy sweet and slightly How to get there: The Zanzibar the aroma of a thousand different spicy all at once. Restaurant is in the Sherpa Mall spices, you will be in for quite a We decided to play it safe and Complex, right above Magic Beans rude awakening. stick to foolproof dishes and got Coffee Shop in Darbar Marg. In fact, Zanzibar serves Chinese the mixed chowmein and mixed food of a distinctly Nepalicised fried rice (Rs 260 each). The variety. There is nothing authentic chowmein was delicious. This about the cuisine here. And stir fried noodle dish in its many because they are so unapologetic avatars is one of our beloved fast about it, admitting that they cater food staples that surprisingly most to Nepalis and their dishes are of the renowned restaurants in designed to suit our palate, the Kathmandu manage to muck up, dishes weirdly enough work okay. and the best versions are usually We decided to go with our to be found in the little khajaghars server’s recommendation and tucked all over our valley. ordered the cold pork salad (Rs lashings of cumin and coriander appetisers came with. The one The folk at Zanzibar know 310) and spicy crispy cauliflower and should have been tagged as accompanying the meat had fish their clientele and cater to those (Rs 190) as appetisers. The pork cauliflower pakora for that is what sauce and garlic and chillies and taste buds. The noodles are an was well-spiced and cooked to just it was. was just perfect, for it added so improved version of that humble the right texture. The batter for the I want to take a minute to talk many layers to the boiled meat favorite - greasiness and all. The cauliflower had received liberal about the dipping sauces that our that it was elevated to so much rice was dependable enough and 14 2 - 8 MAY 2014 #705

GIZMO by YANTRICK absolutely essential to make the diagnosis. Perhaps the South Korean doctors wanted to monitor him more closely, resulting in more spinal taps than he wanted. KEEP COOL When he returned to Kathmandu, he again met epalese summers are synonymous with unbearable heat and unending Paudyal at Patan Hospital who load-shedding hours. Add the now-defunct refrigerators unable to strongly advised a special high Nkeep food fresh or a drop of revitalising beverage cold in, and you have resolution CT scan of his head a stuff y summer right down to a ‘T.’ to detect any leakage of the CSF Reputed home appliance manufacturers LG have come to the rescue with fluid to account for repeated their new range of Evercool refrigerators, which guarantee up to 7 hours of meningitis. Sure enough, a cooling after the NEA-man has cut-off the power. tiny break (dehiscence) at the Available in 310, 285, 190 and 185 litre variants, the Evercool refrigerators base of his skull was detected are designed for Nepali conditions. They are available in a variety of eye- which communicated directly catching colours, with the 310 and 285 litre with the back of his nose models available in Platinum Silver and Velvet (nasopharynx). So, bacteria Gardenia, the 190 litre model available in from the back of his nose in all Sparkle Pine and Blush Eden, and the 180 litre likelihood travelled to the brain model available in Neo Inox. The unique colour through the gap to cause these combinations lend the Evercool refrigerator repeated bouts of meningitis. models a distinctive premium feel, which As though confirming would not look out of place in any modern this, Palden again went kitchen. Multiple to Patan Hospital with All 4 Evercool models ship with transparent headache and fever, as well interiors, toughened glass shelves, low as what he termed “mineral voltage startability, and 10 year compressor Meningitis water” like discharge from only warranty. The top-of-the-range 310 and the one side of his nose. His wife 285 litre Evercool models boast Multi Air Flow told him that this was indeed technology, module LED lighting, humidity cute meningitis (swelling of was subsequently treated with very strange, that without controllers, deodorisers, 2-time twist icers the covering of the brain) antibiotics. catching a cold he had this and electronic temperature controls. The 310 Ais a life threatening illness His treating physician, Buddhi colorless discharge from his litre model also packs in a convertible box, and is in the news this week Paudyal, noted that the bacteria nose. Paudyal promptly sent which allows for independent temperatures because UML leader KP Oli has (Neisseriae meningitides) was well the nasal discharge to the to be set for that box. The lower-end 190 and been admitted to hospital for its known for causing meningitis. laboratory. 185 litre Evercool models, on the other hand, treatment. Fortunately, the patient improved A simple microscopic compromise on some of the high-end features. But imagine suffering rapidly and went home. study of the material revealed That being the case, they do boast anti- from meningitis 14 times and But he returned with similar that the discharge was CSF bacterial gaskets, load bearing wire shelves surviving to tell the story. That complaints again and again. fluid tracking down from the and fast ice-making capabilities. is exactly what happened to In fact, it became an annual hole in the base of his skull The USP of the Evercool refrigerators range ritual for Palden to come to his nose. He was referred undoubtedly is its 7-hour cool air retention to Patan Hospital and be treated to eminent neurosurgeon ability. For most refrigerators, stored food starts with antibiotics. Amazingly, he Upendra Devkota, who getting spoilt within 2 hours after a power cut. was cured of his illness each time, skillfully repaired the But the ‘Power Cut EverCool’ technology incorporated by LG ensures that the without any medical complications dehiscence at the base of the ultra-chilled air of the refrigerator is retained and the freshness of the food such as stroke and deafness. skull. Palden recovered safely is preserved for up to 7 hours. Although most rival brands’ refrigerators are Palden then went to South and has been meningitis free equipped with cooling retention technology, the off er is limited only in the DHANVANTARI freezer sections. Buddha Basnyat, MD Korea as a migrant worker. He for many years now. was wise enough to have a legible Stories like this However, the Evercool refrigerators also provide cool air retention in note in English from his Nepali are probably common the refrigerator section, resulting in your food staying fresh and edible for 50-year-old Palden Lama (name doctor stating clearly that he in Nepal, where an astute longer. Tests have concluded that in an average fridge, the refrigerator section changed) from Samagaon in suffered from recurrent meningitis clinician and a competent temperature rises from 0°C to 20°C, 6 hours after a power cut, while the the Budi Gandaki Valley. He which responded well to a set of surgeon work together to help Evercool refrigerators recorded air temperature is 10°C in the refrigerator had come to Kathmandu when antibiotics. He had two bouts of a patient in need. Many years section after the same amount of time. he suddenly suffered severe meningitis in South Korea. ago, this level of diagnostic headache, fever and vomiting The doctors there had to sophistication and treatment Yantrick’s Verdict: It’s the beginning of May, and the Nepali After a series of laboratory perform so many spinal taps that was unavailable here. summer is already in full swing. With the weather expected tests including a spinal tap to he decided to return to Nepal. But suffering from to be no less forgiving in the coming months LG’s Evercool test the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) The spinal tap is an invasive meningitis 14 times must be a range seems perfectly suited for the Nepali household. At least which bathes the brain, he was procedure, and for many, a world record good enough for Yantrick can enjoy a cold beer, if nothing else. diagnosed with meningitis and painful one; but the procedure is the Guinness book to consider. 2 - 8 MAY 2014 #705 NATION 15 Nepal has no laws for unmanned aerial vehicles GAME OF but drones have enormous potential for conservation DRONES and tourism. And surveillance.

SUNIR PANDEY

t Col Chakra Shah of the Nandabaksh Battalion Linside Chitwan National Park has been on daily jungle patrol guarding the endangered species inside Nepal’s most famous nature sanctuary. The work of Shah and his fellow soldiers has paid off: not a single tiger or rhino was poached in the park in the past 12 months. But his work in Chitwan and the army’s support for conservation could get a huge boost if it could deploy drones to replace the drudgery of foot patrols. In fact, Shah has seen for himself how effective drones can be by serving as the eye in the sky. From mid-2012 onwards, he PICS: CONSERVATIONDRONES.ORG has been part of an effort by the in future disasters like floods EYE IN THE SKY: Two rhinos crossing a World Wildlife fund (WWF) and and earthquakes, and help in stream (zoomed, inset) in Chitwan National Chitwan National Park to try out search and rescue efforts. When Park in an image captured by a camera on unmanned aerial vehicles to help seasonal roads get wiped away by a drone. Conservationist Rupak Maharjan in conservation. The results were landslides, drones could deliver (left) launches the drone for a test ﬂ ight over so encouraging that the National small packets of high energy food, Chitwan. Park is keen to start using the medicines, cell phones and other devices as soon as possible. essentials to remote areas. Even or not fixed with land airships, also be here with our without “The long-term future of journalists could use drones for helicopters, kites, gliders, hang government regulations. national park protection lies in investigative reports. gliders, microlight, balloons and Yet there is ample evidence the replacement of patrols with But Nepal’s laws don’t spell any other flying machines.” on Youtube that people have drones,” says Shah. Currently, the out the legality of drones, which The most recent annual report already brought in drones and are army can only assemble and fly is why the Chitwan initiative of the Civil Aviation Authority using them. Don’t be surprised the vehicles but can’t maintain or is stuck. Article 2(d) of Nepal’s of Nepal too doesn’t mention a next time you hear a high-pitched repair them if they crash. Civil Aviation Act, 1996, single drone being licensed for whine above Patan Darbar Co-founded by Singaporean defines aircraft as “any machine private, public, or commercial use Square. ecologist Lian Pin Koh and Dutch which can derive support in in the past year. Just like Nepalis primate biologist Serge Wich, the atmosphere from reactions are flying radio-controlled fixed- nepalitimes.com the organisation Conservation of the air, and this term also wing model planes without See video Drones (CD) has been training includes balloons, whether fixed any permission, drones will national park and army officials to fly drones and analyse data from them. From the feedback they received, CD has selected the particular drone that would be most suitable for Chitwan. Based on a drone named after a potent Brazilian cocktail called Caipirinha, the ‘Caipy’ is capable of flying for 25 minutes sweeping 20 sq km area at a speed of 13 km/h. Weighing only 630g fully loaded with fuel and a GoPro camera on board, the craft can be controlled with an Android app on a phone or tablet to launch the drone as well as log into check points across the surveillance area. Koh says the possibilities for drone use in conservation are unlimited: 3D mapping of forests, monitoring deforestation rates, using heat-seeking cameras to detect poachers or illegal loggers, using WiFi to download images from camera traps, tracking radio- collared animals. Conservation is not the only area where drones can provide help. A drone was used in the production of a spoof video of the Game of Thrones shot on location in Nepal through stunning aerial shots. Fixing a camera on a drone gives photographers and filmmakers a unique travelling vantage point while trekking or mountaineering. Drones can also be useful 16 NATION 2 - 8 MAY 2014 #705 Machapuchre Annapurna III Anatomy of a 6993m Himalayan Sabche Cirque tsunami 4 5

KUNDA DIXIT avalanche that fell into the Seti. Farmers told Kargel’s team t was a bright and sunny that two weeks before the flood, Saturday morning on 5 May, the Seti had suddenly stopped 2012 and many people from flowing. They concluded that the I 2 Pokhara had come to cool off in river must have been dammed by a the Seti River, or were taking a dip small landslide that can be seen in in the scalding hot springs on its aerial photographs. 12 banks. Both groups of scientists have High above them, Captain pieced together the probable Alexander Maximov was piloting sequence of events. A gigantic a two-seater plane on his second wedge of the south ridge of tourist sight-seeing flight of the Annapurna 4 estimated at 15 morning. Suddenly, Maximov million cubic metres fell nearly noticed a billowing brown cloud 3,000m vertically on an ice shelf below Annapurna 4. Minutes pulverising itself and releasing the later, he saw that the normally cloud of dust that Maximov saw. white Seti River below him had Within two minutes, the mixture turned turbid brown. A wall of of rock, ice, debris fell another water carrying mud, boulders 2,000m along a 2km swathe to and tree trunks was surging down the Seti gorge below, creating STRUZSTROM the Seti gorge. Maximov turned shockwaves that flattened forests. AtAt 9:10am on 5 MayMay 2012, a huhugege rock wedwedgege tore off the south ridgeridg of his plane around and raced the Landslide expert Dave Petley flood, radioing ahead a warning to of Durham University thinks the AnnapurnaAnnapurna 4, tritriggeringggering a dust cloud that was witnessed bbyy the pilotpilo of a Pokhara airport. rock and ice went straight across sightseeingi h i plane. l ThThe debris d b i tumbled bl d 55,000m 000 ddown to the h gorge of f the At Sardi Khola on the banks the plateau falling into the Seti’s Seti River sending a wall of water and boulders racing downstream, killing of the Seti, 13-year-old Chahana gulley system. 72 people. Two years later, we haven’t learnt any lessons from the Seti Pun and her family were among “The debris flow consisted of fl ood, which was nature’s warning of cataclysmic events in future as global hundreds bathing in the river ice, water and sediment from the warming melts the Himalaya. when they heard what sounded main collapse event, so there was like thunder. There were screams no need for another landslide to warning, and the lesson for the An aerial as people climbed to higher create the flood,” Petley explained. 12 future is to have permanent early photograph of ground. Chahana and a sibling Whatever the origin of warning systems on Himalayan Annapurna 4 and the were lucky, but the angry river the water, the flood roared rivers vulnerable to flashfloods Sabche Cirque last washed away their parents downstream at 50km/h and week shows everything especially after earthquakes. It is and a baby brother. At least 72 within 30 minutes had arrived at to be quiet with recent also a warning not to have large people were killed that morning, Kharapani where villagers didn’t snowfall covering the settlements and not locate many including three Ukrainian tourists. stand a chance. dust and debris fi eld. big projects along the same river. The calm is deceptive, Many of the bodies were never The Seti has seen catastrophic and scientists say the found. floods before. One was 12,000 nepalitimes.com event two years ago Maximov downloaded the years ago, and another probably was nature’s warning video from his wingtip camera and in 1255 AD when an earthquake STRUZSTROM of cataclysmic fl oods in Special Interactive Package was astounded to see the brown could have blocked the river with OLAV MYRHOLT future. cloud, providing first proof to a landslide, and the lake located scientists that the flood was not a in the Sabche Cirque subsequently result of a glacial lake outburst as burst. Both caused cataclysmic originally thought, but caused by floods downstream, depositing huge rockfall on Annapurna 4. debris 60m thick where Pokhara Halfway around the world at city is located today. Columbia University’s Lamont In his paper titled The Pokhara Doherty Earth Observatory in New May 5th Flood Disaster: A Last York state, scientists had detected Warning Sign Sent By Nature? a 4.3 magnitude earthquake Hanisch warns that a flood like triggered by the rockfall at 03:24:56 the one 750 years ago would have GMT (09:09:56 Nepal time) on 5 an apocalyptic impact: about May and precisely calculated the half a million people live in volume and direction of the slope PokharaValley today. failure on Annapurna. Experts want a detailed In the two years since, the Seti investigation of the reasons for the flood has been closely analysed by 5 May flood and the possibility Nepali and international experts. that global warming could have Two studies published recently triggered the rockfall. Both on NASA’s Earth Observatory previous Seti floods happened as website by University of Arizona the earth warmed naturally at the MILAN THAPA OLAV MYRHOLT hydrologist Jeffrey Kargel and in end of ice ages. 11 A photograph from the morning of 5 May as the angry river destroyed the village of Kharapani (left). The time imprint on the photo shows 9:38, just half the Journal of the Nepal Geological Capt Maximov possibly saved an hour after the initial rockfall on Annapurna 4. Photograph of the Seti fl owing past Kharapani last week (right) with the damaged bridge visible. Two Society by a team led by German hundreds of lives by radioing the years later, one can still make out the water level and the extent of devastation. See video of fl ood arriving in Kharapani. geologist Jörg Hanisch conclude that a chunk of the south ridge of Annapurna 4 broke off and tumbled down to the Seti gorge unleashing the flood either by causing an impounded lake to burst, or from the melting of falling ice. Kargel teamed up with ICIMOD scientist Sharad Joshi, helicoptered up the Seti gorge, interviewed locals, pored over satellite imagery, analysed silt and rocks downstream. Hanisch worked with Nepali geologist Achyuata Koirala and Netra P Bhandary of Ehime University in ALEXANDER MAXIMOV / AVIA CLUB NEPAL ALEXANDER MAXIMOV / AVIA CLUB NEPAL ALEXANDER MAXIMOV / AVIA CLUB NEPAL Japan and used satellite imagery 10 The fl ood as it approached crushers collecting boulders on 9 The leading edge of the fl ood was fi lled with fl oating logs as it 8 Capt Maximov caught up with the fl ood above Tatopani, to conclude that the disaster was the river bed as the fl ood arrived at the Pokhara-Baglung surged towards Pokhara at 50km/h. Capt Maximov’s warning where Ukrainian tourists were being swept away even caused by a ‘struzstrom’, a rock-ice Highway near Hyangja. was broadcast over radio and helped save many lives. as this picture was being taken. 2 - 8 MAY 2014 #705 NATION 17 Annapurna IV Annapurna II 1 The winter 3 of our spring The amorality of the market plays out on Everest, the laws of profit and price determine 6 the ultimate success of an expedition

TASHI SHERPA 7 y last name is an accident of birth and not an achievement. But in the past two weeks I am even more convinced who my heroes are. M The continuous outpouring of emotion from around the world JEFFREY KARGEL / UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA hasn’t stopped since 18 April. They call because of my ownership to a last name and brand that has dedicated itself to honouring the unsung heroes of 1 Point where a huge wedge of rock broke off the Himalaya. the south ridge of Annapurna 4 and fell nearly 3,000m vertically on the ice shelf below. The rock I have always been close to my idols Ang Thargay, Da Namgyal face is made up of tilted sedimentary rock strata ,Tenzing, Ngawang Gombu – names from an era almost forgotten, now metamorphosed during mountain formation. When precious as rare coins. I read their stories, reveled in the borrowed glory of this photo was taken 6 months after the event, there being next to them. I stood in awe of their indomitable spirit and the easy was a dust cloud from smaller rockfalls. humility of wisdom that signify everything the world knows as ‘Sherpa’. In the 1980s we boasted about a new generation of super Sherpas: our Pertemba, Ang Rita, Sundare, Babu Chiri and the biggest little man, Apa. And the women, too. World, please meet Pasang Lhamu and Pemba Doma. Their total summit counts began to feel like a stock index. They were feted and paraded, and then fi led away as footnotes to someone else’s glory on Mt Everest. We didn’t know how to brag, so when the fi rst ‘saabs’ came, ALEXANDER MAXIMOV / AVIA CLUB NEPAL they became our ‘sathis’. 11 2 The dust cloud captured by the wingtip video camera of a small sight-seeing plane piloted Even ordinary Pokhara 15km by Capt Alexander Maximov (inset) over the Seti on Nepalis took the morning of 5 May. See video: pride in the brief 8 9 10 dispatches in the media about summiteers. There was a sense of purpose and pure passion. But the Khumbuley didn’t care who was on top fi rst as long as they could get them to peak their summit and enjoy their day in the sun. The Sherpa got his quota of khadas, precious new down gear and money to last till next Losar. Meanwhile, the client went on lecture circuits becoming the motivational toast of the month featured in interviews, cover stories and reaping in the benefi ts of having tasted thin air on the peak of peaks. But then some sathis discovered troves of trophy seekers with easy money. Socialites, investment bankers, rich retirees, software moguls, wealthy Arabs, spoilt Asians, scions of big money, all came to Everest Base Camp which became a jamboree of high profi le expeditions with even higher profi le clients craving the ultimate high. No previous experience needed, KUNDA DIXIT MIKE SEARLE just high altitude training for six months, bring your pack and Amex or Visa, and we’ll do the rest. Those in the know knew what to charge and share with 4 Close-up of the eroded 3 The huge brown scar their partners in Nepal, but someone forgot to send the memo to the actual sediments of a former lake below Annapurna 4 taken Sherpa climbers, the ones who were supposed to ‘take care of it all’. bed in the Sabche Cirque. This a month after the event from huge lake was formed when the 9,000m above Pokhara out of The Sherpas watched in bemusement and in the quintessential Buddhist Seti was blocked probably by an the window of a Kathmandu to way of accepting what life throws at you, went about doing what they do earthquake-induced landslide Delhi fl ight. The Sabche Cirque best. Grateful that they at least had work for the season, they never thought about 750 years ago after the is still covered in dust from to question the specious generosity of being employed. As Nepalis we have mini ice age. when it burst it set the 15 million cubic metres of a built-in resourcefulness to the mixed vicissitudes of life. Few of us plan for off a huge Himalayan tsunami pulversied rock. The rocky peak the future, the distant horizon is too far, we focus on the next hill. that deposited debris 60m thick on the right is Annapurna 2. The amorality of the market plays out on Everest, the laws of profi t and where Pokhara city is located price determine the ultimate success of an expedition. Those who take the today. Scientists say there is most risk are assigned the lowest value in this bizarre equation. The Nepal geological evidence that another Government rakes in millions of dollars in fees from Mt Everest, western and lake in the cirque at the end of the previous ice age 12,000 years Nepali expedition agencies eagerly calculate the spring months to be their breakout revenue season. And every year, the queue for Everest gets longer ago also burst. 5 The Seti gulley system is so narrow, even the bottom while the proportion for the Sherpa remains woefully stagnant in the risk-to- is not visible. Avalanches and reward math. rockfalls from the steep slopes of So, skilled Sherpas are roped in to do the dirtiest and most dangerous Machapuchre and Annapurna on work. They fi x ropes, lay ladders, carry the heaviest loads and face the either side frequently block the brunt of the mountain’s treacherous moods. On 18 April an angry goddess river. The ice and rock from the avenged herself, entombing 16 climbers in ice. event two years ago sent debris The media weighed in with the poignancy of grief, fury against the unfair plunging into the river at very deck stacked against the Sherpa. There has been a universal condemnation high speed. OLAV MYRHOLT of the status quo but I am more sad than furious because in the end we let ourselves down. Nothing is ever going to be the same again. Why does it take a national tragedy for us to reexamine our bearings? Why could we not have foreseen that such a day would come and prepared ourselves for it? We do not blame anybody for the shifting of the mountain, that is the risk inherent in venture. What we cannot accept is the furtive manipulation and complicit acceptance of taking more and giving less to those who risk their lives for you. Summer is upon us, but the mountain blows cold. The chill we feel is not the wind but the desolation of families whose fathers and husbands and brothers will not be coming home. As a Buddhist, I will pray that the next realm bring them better fortune and as a Sherpa, I ask the Mother Goddess Chomolungma to be merciful and understanding. Om Mani Padme Hum.

JEFFREY KARGEL / UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA JEFFREY KARGEL / UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA Tashi Sherpa is the 7 A waterfall plunges into the Seti gorge which is still Forests in the slope above the Seti gorge were ﬂ attened by the founder and CEO of covered in ash-coloured dust and debris six months 6 shockwave from the struzstrom on 5 May 2012. Sherpa Adventure Gear. after the rock and ice avalanche. 18 FROM THE NEPALI PRESS 2 - 8 MAY 2014 #705

meeting. But it did not and even after nearly 100 days in office, the Sushil Koirala-led coalition has also failed to come up with names. Nepali politics has always been a victim of the indecisiveness of the political leadership. Prime Minister Koirala has been criticised for his lacklustre performance, and his inability to take swift decisions not just from the opposition but also his party’s own lawmakers. Delaying the nomination of the remaining 26 members raises questions over the political parties’ commitment to the drafting of the constitution within a year. The cabinet will decide on the nominations, but this requires “Mother” BIKRM RAI cooperation from all the parties. It Tombstone: Insurgency victims will not be fair if the 26 seats are divided among the parties based on power, money and influence. Rabin Sayami, in Nagarik, 29 April Incomplete house If it becomes a bargaining tool, then many candidates who lost the election will try to redeem QUOTE OF THE WEEK

Editorial, Kantipur, 29 April still remain to be nominated. In themselves or buy their way to the

their absence, there are many parliament through the remaining doubts about the legitimacy of CA 26 seats. These days the going rate for appointment at appellate“ courts The second Constituent Assembly decisions. The government should pay “is Rs 1 million. And those who want Supreme Court positions (CA) election took place six The Khilraj Regmi-led special attention to nominating have to start bidding from ten times that amount . months ago, and it has been four government should have initiated only those who can actually months since the first meeting of consultations with political parties contribute to the constitution Anonymous source at the Bar Association, Sanghu, 30 April the CA took place. But 26 members regarding the 26 before the first CA writing process. No to amnesty

parliament. The two bills were passed on Friday after making several amendments to the initial draft. Fourteen organisations consisting of families of confl ict victims released a joint statement on Sunday, requesting that the political parties reconsider some of the contentious provisions in the bills. “We strongly object to the provision regarding amnesty and reconciliation that don’t require the consent of the victims,” Himalkhabar.com, 27 April reads the statement. Sikkim to Mumbai Earlier this year, the Supreme Court released a decision prohibiting grants of amnesty for serious human rights Families of confl ict victims have raised concerns regarding violations committed during the armed confl ict. The court Nepal, 27 April done in a new way, I wouldn’t mind the possible eff ects of the amnesty provision for serious found that grants of amnesties, limitations on criminal heading to Bollywood right away. human rights violations in the Truth and Reconciliation prosecutions, and the 35-day time limit on fi ling cases do But for me, a good script is the most Commission (TRC) and the Commission on Enforced not conform to the standards established by the Nepalese Interview with Nepali-Indian actress important thing. Disappearances (CED) bills passed by the legislature Constitution and international law Geetanjali Thapa, 25, after she won What projects are you currently India’s National Film Award for Best involved in? Actress for her role in the 2014 fi lm I have been cast in a fi lm by Oscar Liar’s Dice. winning Serbian fi lmmaker Danis Tanovich called White Lies, alongside Nepal: What led you to acting? Emran Hashmi. The funny thing is I Geetanjali Thapa: I used to act in went for the audition just hoping to school plays, but I never wanted to meet the director, didn’t really think I become a professional actor. When I would get selected. FEMALE was studying in Kolkata, some friends suggested that I start modelling. One Have you faced any trouble in POLICE WOES thing led to another and I was cast in the industry because of your Prashant Rasaily’s fi lm Myth. After that Nepali roots? Surendra Subedi, Sancharika acting just kind of took off . There have been times when I have 21 April, been rejected because of my non- How did you land the role in typical Indian looks. But this is to Liar’s Dice? be expected because fi lmmakers Assistant sub-inspector Radhika I was in a fi lm called ID . Rajeev Ravi, are under a lot of pressure to cast BK has to stand at Thapathali the cinematographer of the fi lm, Indian faces. Still, I am happy with the for hours on end, trying to direct recommended my name to his wife number of fi lms I get. traffic at one of the busiest Githu Mohandas, who is the director intersections in Kathmandu. of Liar’s Dice. She then cast me in the Are you familiar with Nepali MIN RATNA BAJRACHARYA She has no time for toilet break. fi lm. fi lms and fi lmmakers? Recently, during a medical have their periods. are stationed in Kathmandu. Other I watched Darpan Chhaya when I was checkup, BK discovered she had Asha Singh, who works at than the regular paid leave, which What are your plans now? very small. The recent movies I’ve kidney stones. Doctors told her the police hospital, says there runs to 10 per cent of total work I am excited about receiving the award seen are Acharya, Katha, and Sungava. this was because she worked for is a greater chance of infection days, a two-month maternity leave, from the President of India. From now, Among the directors I only know long stretches without relieving if women do not go to the toilet and emergency sick leaves, there on it’s going to be a bigger challenge as Prashant Rasaily and Subarna Thapa, herself. for long stretches. “It can lead are no other special facilities at more people have come to know of my whom I met at a fi lm festival. “Whether it’s hot, cold, or to kidney stones and even renal work. work. Off ers have also come pouring raining, we have to do our job. failure,” says Singh. Inspector MTPD spokesperson Basanta in but I am being selective with my Do you have any plans to work The lack of toilets is our biggest Chanchal Shrestha, who works Panta says it is difficult to relax scripts. or stay in Nepal? concern when we are posted on at the Metropolitan Traffic Police duties just for female traffic police I’d like to work in Nepali fi lms as long duty,” says BK. However, her Department, says many of her because facilities for both men What kind of scripts attract as the fi lmmakers like my work and I male colleagues do not face that juniors have spoken to her about and women are equal in the force. you? like their scripts. I’ve never been there, problem. BK says she and her their predicament. “The men will complain if we give I prefer to act in fi lms that raise and my friends in Kathmandu always female colleagues have to work There are 155 female traffic special treatment to the women,” socio-economic issues rather than in ask me to visit, so maybe I will go once without breaks even when they police in the country, 90 of whom says Panta. musicals. If song-and-dance fi lms are the shooting for White Lies ends. 2 - 8 MAY 2014 #705 NATION 19 The Everest spring season is over Ascent’s founder. “Emotionally, mountain workers were being Mt Everest is pulled from all angles to make a choice: respect for the dead, officially still alliance to the better rights cause, open, but company loyalty, government and association pressure to continue, functionally family pressure and their own safety” he said in a blog post. closed due The last straw for those still at Base Camp was a series of smaller to factors, avalanches that dropped on the only one of same section of the Khumbu Icefall that was hit on 18 April. which is the Rainier Mountaineering Inc mountain (RMI) guide and 15-time Everest PICS: ANG JANGBU, IMG summiteer Dave Hahn summed it up in a blog: “For now, suffice MATT MILLER Large expeditions were WINTER ISLAND: A few tents remained and intimidation became too to say that the risks outweigh the allowed by the government on Monday (right) at the normally crowded dangerous to ignore. possibility of success.” to collaborate in chartering Everest Base Camp. The same place earlier in Others such as British guide limbing for the 2014 Mt helicopters to retrieve supplies the day before the tents were dismantled by Tim Mosedale and John All overtly nepalitimes.com Everest spring season already stored at Camps 1 and expeditions leaving the mountain. tied the threats to Maoists who now seems to be over. 2. Supplies are being allowed have hijacked the tragedy for their Taking chances on Chomolungma, #704 C A dangerous place to work, #704 The final decision was due to a to be stored under locked mesh political agenda. Working in high places, #704 combination of factors that led to coverings on the Western Cwm A commercial expedition For Western clients and Nepali “I still call him everyday”, #704 large commercial expeditions and until the next season. cannot get through the Khumbu high altitude workers, the decision As the majority of climbers Icefall, and eventually to the was not an easy one explained Extreme Everest, #704 their hired high altitude workers Dangerous business, #704 leaving Everest Base Camp from large expeditions return Summit, without the help of high Nepali Sumit Joshi, Himalayan last week after the devastating to Kathmandu via Lukla, more altitude workers. Smaller groups avalanche on 18 April that killed detailed accounts of their could still go, but without fixed 16 climbers on the Khumbu experiences following the 18 ropes and ladders, they will find Icefall. April tragedy have started being it much more difficult and costly. Mountaineer Alan Arnette posted on the Internet. There is The cost of negotiating the Icefall is tracks activity on Everest, and talk of a small group of Nepalis usually shared by all expeditions. in a blog declared the mountain who are bullying and harassing Nepali workers at Base Camp, ‘functionally closed’ for the those, who still wanted to climb most of them Sherpas, felt the season. As of Monday morning, all the mountain. avalanche was a bad omen and large expeditions on the southern The Nepal government, for decided not to climb the mountain Nepali side of the mountains have its part, says the mountain is still out of respect for their friends and abandoned their climbs. open. It has said climbing will not family who are dead or missing. Arnette reports that three be refunded, but an official told However, as anger rose at Base teams are rumored to still be at expeditions at Base Camp last Camp, some younger Nepali staff Base Camp including a Russian, week that their season’s permits of various expeditions ratcheted Chinese and American science will be valid for the next five up their agenda and issued a 13- team. Science team member John years. It is unclear whether this point list of demands that included All said in a post Wednesday applies to individual climbers, or higher compensation and political that the non-profit team would only to the teams as constituted in demands of representation in collect data on Himlung, a 7200m spring 2014. parliament in Kathmandu. peak on the border of Nepal and Large commercial expeditions, Senior Editor at Outside Tibet, rather than 8848m Mount like Himalayan Experience and Magazine Grayson Shaffer quoted Everest. At least 10 expeditions Asian Trekking, employ most of Base Camp sources to say that the from the northern Chinese side the Nepali high altitude workers group had threatened anyone still are currently in the acclimatising who do most of the rope fixing, wishing to climb. The mindset to phase and are proceeding as ladder setting and ferrying loads call it quits for the season is not planned. to higher camps. shared by everyone, but the threats 20 BACK SIDE 2 - 8 MAY 2014 #705

PAST PRESENT FUTURE In Gods we trust DIWAKAR CHETTRI hose of you who think that Dev, the terrible infant of the

Nepal’s politicians have current cabinet who thinks he is www.nepalitimes.com Tmade a mess of things God’s left hand man, just because and that there is no hope for that is what his name means. His this country -- you are wrong. Holiness the Tourism Minister What you don’t know is that our must have realised that sacrificing rulers are a god-fearing bunch black goats and sprinkling their and they have a special hotline to blood over the nose landing gears the Almighty who advises them of Twin Otters has not saved on important matters of state. them from mishaps over the past In fact, those who oppose this three decades, which must be government’s recent decisions are why he ordered a strictly vegan all godless atheists and disciples welcome for the new Chinese of the Devil. MA60 plane in Kathmandu this  week. Chairman Sri Sri Sri Sri Sri Gyanendra, PKD did modus operandi to protect the  Prachandacharya set the tone not decapitate the animal. First Republic. Our theocrats aren’t worried soon after he was elected PM in Comrade Awesome must have  because their High Level 2008 when he propitiated the had a hunch that if sacrificing Political Mechanism can refer gods by publicly worshipping five species of livestock, domestic It is understandable that Nepal’s any pending matters to an Yamaraj’s vehicle, the water fowl and household rodent in a secular rulers think they are Even Higher-up Authority in buffalo. In a departure from Tantrick ritual couldn’t save the gods because most are named Heaven and take guidance from his predecessor, Sri Sri Sri monarchy, he needed a different after Him. Take Comrade Bum Him. According to our special correspondent at the Pearly Gates, the workload there has expanded so much that God has had to set up a Special Task Force of Researchers and Analyeasts to deal exclusively with Nepal and doubled the number of His Handlers down here. Even so, from time to time the entire Mechanism has to go to the Kumbha Mela in Chhatara for a direct briefing with the Omniscient Being, or troop off for a meeting with God’s roving ambassador, Swami Kamalnayanacharya and other visiting Godmen in Pashupati. It must have suddenly dawned on those who killed, tortured and pillaged that even if they get temporal amnesty for past sins, they will still be sent to Purgatory. Unless they bribe the Gods. Nothing could be further from the truth. Insider sources tell us  that hectic behind-the-scenes Even Dash leader, Commiesar negotiations are going on even CP Gajurel, has been dashing as we speak. No, not within about touring holy sites around High Level Political Mechanism, the country after sacking his but between the High Level Dalit driver, because he was an Political Mechanism and God. A untouchable. (That last bit is true, breakthrough is expected soon, swear to God.) His hopes about God willing. a future for the Dash must have  got dashed because the Group of 99 fought pitched battles last God Himself is understandably week in Kirtipore, throwing worried about His status after chairs and desks at a rival faction. Nepal declared itself an Atheist Good thing we took away their Federal Republic and whether guns otherwise there would He will still be allowed to rain have been a bloodbath between thunderbolts down from heaven Comrade Cloudburst and Comrade when he gets the urge. Through Big Plop. this column, we would like to  reassure God on that score. As a God-fearing people, we It may appear to the casual would like to retain Him and his outside observer that the Pantheon as a government is stuck, because tourist attraction. constitution writing is still in So no need for limbo, 26 new CA members have Him to panic just yet to be appointed and the new yet. Minister for Vodoo and Black Magic has still not been named. The Ass

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