Every Thursday issue 283 Rs 40 12 April 2016 30 r}q 2072

On the Bright Side As the Nepali New Year arrives and Fr!day returns, Evana recalls her year as Miss 2 Kickstart//Out and About Newsfeed k ckstart For !The Nights You Won’t Remember, With People You Will Never Forget! of a new era. Whether it be the addition of the VIP section in the parties or the colored theme, the company has experimented with different concepts in the short span of time and will only grow with each experience.

Subin Shrestha, Marketing Director – “We had a vision to elevate the entertainment standards in . We started the company driven by our passion for music, entertainment and partying. We want to take the party scene in Kathmandu to a whole new l e v e l .” Ashik Shrestha, Marketing Director – “RunKtm was started with a concept to bring innovative party concepts into the Nepali nightlife culture. We noticed a huge opportunity in this field since we felt like all the parties we attended had the same layout and it felt really monotonous to us. We also seek to unite the entire Nepali nightlife by featuring some of the interesting parties that we happen to personally attend. I see immense scope in the nightlife industry here unKTM, an event planning company, of the business aspect for the events. Being in Nepal.“ promises to build nights around extra the only female member of the group, Sahara Namgyal Lama, Director – “We just try ordinary music, great people and Joshi looks after the finances of the company. and be different in every event we do so that Runforgettable memories. With a name While Ashesh Pradhan, the most creative everyone has an experience of a lifetime.” inspired by the 80’s rap group RunDMC, person in the group, plans out the theme and Ashesh Pradhan, Creative Director – who ruled the revolutionized the rap music creative aspects for the events. And lastly, “RunKTM takes into consideration every industry, RunKTM is looking to transform adding the fun and craziness to this group is little detail from the stage designs to the the Nepali nightlife culture. Namgyal Lama, a pilot by profession, who setting of the place while deriving the concept The company was formed by a group of makes sure everyone is having a nice and of the parties”. young entrepreneurs in 2014 and has been smooth experience. Sahara Joshi, Finance Director – “Our team successfully hosting the best and most well- The company undertook its first event is motivated to provide people that come to attended parties in Kathmandu in the past two ‘Amnesia’ in the New Year’s Eve of 2014 and our parties to experience something new in New Year Eves. Each of the group members after that it’s only gotten bigger and better. The every event that we do, relish to some good add an element to RunKTM which makes company has tried to do something new and music and make sure boys don’t have all the this group what it is right. Ashik Shrestha, innovative with each passing event. Taking up fun!” popularly known around Kathmandu as DJ from Amnesia, RunKTM organized ‘Setojatra’ Neptek, regularly plays music in the best clubs during last year’s Nepali New Year’s which was The RunKTM team is determined to provide a new experience in each in the capital on a regular basis and with his an entirely white dress code themed party. of its events and that is what the party goers of Kathmandu can look experience gives RunKTM events the most And to welcome 2016, RunKTM replaced the forward to. The readers will soon be able to hear about their next suitable music for their events. Subin Shrestha legendary ‘Sinners in Heaven’ party held at venture. is the brainchild of the group and takes care Hotel Yek and Yeti to truly mark the arrival Kickstart// Month that Was 4 MOnth WAs General Katawal’s autobiography released in English The English edition of General Rookmangud particular window every ten minutes during the Katawal’s autobiography ‘Rookmangud Katawal – high-voltage face-off between him and the Maoist My Story’ has been launched amid a function at Prime Minister, Dixit asked what would have Nepalaya’s r-sala in Kathmandu on Saturday. happened if he would be visible from outside in Katawal handed over copies of the book 12 minutes instead of 10 minutes. “They would to Mikel Dunham - researcher and writer on certainly storm in to free me,” a witty Katawal Himalayan issues, and journalist Kunda Dixit replied. to formally launch the book after an hour long “What if you had given into the greed and conversation with them. Prachanda would have succeeded?” Kunda asked The book covers the story of truly historic again. proportions told from the unique perspective of “If I had given in then, we probably would Katawal, who served as the Chief of Army Staff not get to gather here for the book launch today,” during the tumultuous years of Nepal’s transition Katawal quipped, “And, Nepal would have from monarchy following the decade-long Maoist become another North Korea.” insurgency. Besides the issues of political and strategic With his characteristic insight, perception significance, Katawal has covered stories of his and candor, General Katawal has transcribed childhood, magical journey to Kathmandu, and the inside stories of the Army’s stance over the beginning of his army career in the book. In the Maoist issues and his friction with Maoist Nepal’s modern history, Katawal is considered the Chairman and Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal first commoner to have reached the high post of Dahal as well as many other events of historical Army Chief. significance. Dahal was forced to step down from The book was originally written in collaboration the government after an attempt to sack Katawal with journalist Kiran Bhandari. Bhrikuti Rai has as the Army Chief. translated it into English. “The original edition of Dunham, who has written Foreword of the this book has remained the fastest selling book book, hailed the autobiography as a political in our catalogue. The book invited many opinions thriller. “One can’t put the book down till the last from people from various walks of life. But I am page,” he said in during the conversation. glad to share, none of the living characters in the “General Katawal’s autobiography will remain book have contested the content of the book” said as a reference book forever,” he said, opining that Publication Nepa~laya’s Kiran Krishna Shrestha. anyone who wants to study Nepal’s history will “We are glad to have published this book in have to read it sooner or later. Nepali and now in English.” he added. Referring to Katawal’s instructions to the Army The book is priced at Rs 725 and is available to rescue him, if he failed to show himself at a at major book stores.

‘1st International Women’s Trade Expo 2016’ The Federation of Women Entrepreneurs’ Associations of Nepal (FWEAN) organized the ‘1st International Women’s Trade Expo’ at the Army Officers’ Club in Sundhara. The expo had a total of 75 stalls. These stalls showcased products like candle, soap, carpet, clay craft and garments, and agri-business products like honey, pickle, dairy products, spices, tea, coffee, juice, natural fiver, cotton, and cardamom, among others. There were 10 stalls of women entrepreneurs from SAARC region and the Philippines. The President of FWEAN – Rita Bhandari heaped praises on women entrepreneurs throughout the country for staying in business despite lack of opportunity, market, capital and support from the government. President Bidhya Devi Bhandari inaugurated the three- day event on 1st April.

The Smarter Entertainment Weekly D.A.O. Lalitpur Regd. No.77-066/67 ECS Media Pvt. Ltd, Kupondole, Lalitpur, Nepal. 5011571. Sub-Editor: Avash Shrestha No. 283 21 April 2016 In-house writer: girish subedi Color Separation & Printed at: Creative Manager: Sunil Maharjan World Wood Day WordScape The Printer Pvt. Ltd. Design Executive: Samir Raj Tamrakar Bhaisepati, Lalitpur, 5590306, 5591112 Design Assistants: ashmin maharjan, Ishan Maharjan A joint initiative by the Ministry of Forests and Soil Photographers: Prajwal maharjan, Amar Rai, sajana Conservation and the International Wood Culture Society Publisher: ECS MEDIA Pvt. Ltd. shrestha, Chandra s. magar celebrated the World Wood Day with a three-day event with Editor: Sunil Raj Shrestha Business Development Head: Rabin maharjan Sr. Manager, Editorial & Marketing: SUDEEP SHAKYA Business Development Assistant:maltee bayalkoti, Legal Advisor: Hira Regmi an aim of promoting wood culture through sustainable simran agarwal management. Reminding people of the true value of wood SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION COORDINATOR: in various life activities—culture, religion, wooden products Suraj Lama Disclaimer Ad Enquiries: [email protected] and construction, participants from various countries Details of the event listings are accurate as per information received before the date the highlighted the importance of sustainable forest management weekly goes for printing. Fr!day is not responsible for any changes. Columnists are entitled to their own views and opinions. They do not necessarily reflect Sr. Executive, Production & Distribution: Bikram shrestha for sustainable future. The opening day of the event also the views and opinions of ECS Media and the organization cannot be held liable for the showcased cultural performances from artists, who used wood- same. Readers are encouraged to write to us at [email protected] www.facebook.com/fridayweekly based instruments and forest products, from countries ranging Official Digital Marketing Partner - ADS MARKET PVT. LTD [4218069] Our sister publications from Russia, Egypt, Benin, Iran, Kazakasthan, Peru, China and Switzerland. 5

Bazaar Mahindra KUV100 Hits Nepali Roads The Mahindra KUV100 was launched at an spoiler with body side cladding, this SUV has a annual sale at Index Furniture event held by Agni Incorporated, sole distributor fresh look. The height-adjustable driver’s seat, of Mahindra four-wheelers in Nepal, in Hyatt cooled glove box, tilt electric power steering, Index Furniture Nepal is new apartments and houses. Regency on 4th April. The entry-level SUV is puddle lamps on all doors, LED interior roof be having its “Annual Sale” As Index has a wide powered by all-new mFALCON G80 1198cc lamp and adjustable headrests for all three petrol engine; the SUV delivers a maximum passengers in the second row are some of the from March 15th to April variety of furniture in power of 82 bhp at 5500 rpm and a peak torque features that ensure comfort. 30th. This 45 days campaign Thailand, there are always of 115 Nm at 3500 to 3600 rpm. The SUV All this in the price of a hatchback is, without a offers discounts up to 50% new items coming in as offers an impressive mileage of 18.52 kmpl. doubt, going to be one of the major attractions on a variety of items which Index imports several Mahindra KUV100 with its aggressive styling for vehicle buyers in Nepal, according to and dominating SUV stance remains true to the the company. Agni Incorporated has been includes bedroom sets, sofas, containers a month. At the tough and rugged Mahindra DNA. The entry-level successfully delivering Mahindra’s services stools, home entertainment, moment, the showroom SUV delivers an impressive mileage of 18.15 among Nepali people since 1991, and, today, it shelves, kids bedroom set, has expanded its space to kmpl and offers a ground clearance of 170mm. is Nepal’s leading multi-utility vehicle distributor dining table, dining chair and increase its variety of Home With an aggressive front looks and sporty rear company. much more. All the items Decorative items. This are exclusively imported includes bed sheets, duvet from Index Living Mall in covers, photo frames, wall Thailand, of which Index clocks, decorative pieces, Furniture Nepal is a sole vases, etc. franchise. With the help of the This is the perfect designers at Index, all opportunity for everyone customers can use 3-D to buy products that they rooms to show service to like at a much lower price show the layout of the rooms. or even furnish your house Do make sure you do not or apartment with high end miss out on the opportunity product for a lower price. to grab the new items that Index Furniture has its have just arrived as well. annual sale every year as this For details contact: is the beginning of spring Lazimpat – 4415181, and people are moving in to Jawalakhel – 5000270 1 2

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5 Women ‘Make it Happen’ March 8, Basantapur

Women in Concert 2015: Women and their bands was held at Lainchaur to the theme of last year’s International Women’s day motto – ‘Make it happen.’ The concert was supported by The Swiss Embassy in Nepal as well as many local businesses. The concert attracted a massive crowd of eight thousand and we were very encouraged to see many girls in the crowd participating with enthusiasm. Since the programme was one that also aimed at men participating for what seems like an exclusive women oriented show – it gave a positive and nonthreatening message to the other half, that issues regarding women cannot be dealt without an inclusive outlook.

6 1. Ishara Chamling 2. Robin Tamang and Sunita Thegim 3. Rhythm Guitarist of ‘House of Hope’ 4. Bassist of ‘Gorkhali’s Girls’ 5.Megha Shrestha 6. Shree Tara Girls Hall of Frame

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Hits FM Music Awards March 11, Army Officers’ Club, Sundhara

The grand finale of the 19th Hits FM Music Awards was dominated by BipulChettri and ‘ZindagileHisaabMaagchha’. ‘ZindagileHisaabMaagchha’, sung by Ajar Jangam, won four awards including Record of the Year. While, folk rock artist, BipulChettri received 3 three awards for his popular song ‘Syndicate’ and his album ‘Sketches of Darjeeling’. Hits FM Music Awards also paid tribute to folk legend Dharmaraj Thapa who is best known for his song ‘HariyoDandaMaathi.’ Singer Kumar Basnet performed Thapa’s popular song ‘Nepalile Maya MaaryoBarilai’ onstage. Those attending the event were entertained by performances from Kali Prasad Baskota and Sakchyam band, Trishna Gurung, Rohit John Chettri, Baanika Pradhan, Deep Shrestha, What The Funk, Karna Das, and Monkey Temple.

1. Pasang Lhamu Akita Sherpa and Nir Shah 2. Rohit John Chettri 3.Prajwal Mukhiya 4. Aayush Shrestha 5. Usha Khadgi 6. Kali Prashad Baskota 7. Shristi Shrestha and Richa Sharma 8. Rythm Dahal 1 2 3

Samsung S7 and S7 Edge March 9, Hyatt Regency

Samsung Electronics Nepal launched the flagship Samsung phones – the Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 Edge – at a gala launch ceremony. HHP Division Head of Samsung Electronics Nepal, Pranaya Sthapit belives that both the phones are brighter sharper and more convenient while also being elegant and providing a seamless mobile experience. Nisha Adhikari, Nawayug Shrestha, 1. Deepak Malhotra, Sabita Malhotra, Zenisha Malhotra, Dikesh Malhotra Bal Gopal Maharjan and Adrian Pradhan demonstrated the 2. Rena Sharma 3. Anjil Maskey functionality of the new phones at the event showcasing the video making abilities and water proof functionality at the event.

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Etiquette Training at 4 Annapurna Hotel Annapurna

The final contestants of Miss Nepal 2016 were all given dining etiquette training at Hotel Annapurna. The hotel staff first gave a presentation on dining etiquette and then gave each of the contestants a little bit of a demonstration and advice on the way to use their utensils while eating. This program is a part of a month-long training and grooming period for these contestants. 1. Ayushman Ghimire 2. Kusum Thapa Magar, Karuna Khadka and Sajun Katawal 3. Asmi Shrestha, Anshu K.C, Prerna Adhikari and Pravita Dawadi 4. Sandipa Limbu, Anita Karki and Kritima Rimal Hall of FrameMiss. Nepal

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RB Diamond Deliver Miss Nepal 2016 Crown March 14, RB Jewellers, New Road

RB Diamond Jewellers unveiled the Hidden Treasure Miss Nepal 2016 crown at a pre-event in the lead up to the Miss Nepal contest 6 in the coming month. The final contestants were given their first glimpse of the crowns that they will be vying for. Each of the contestants expressed their expectations of the crowns before the unveiling and were not disappointed with the glamorous crown which embedded the Nepali cultural aspect along with the glitz that is needed for a Miss Nepal crown. 1. Ramesh Maharjan 2. Kusum Thapa Magar 3. Subekshya Khadka 5 and Rachna Gurung 4. Riken Maharjan 5. Subarna Chhetri 6. Gopal Sundar Lal Kakshapati and Anshu K.C 9 Entertainment//Drinks enterta nment !Miss. Nepal 2016 Contestants The Hidden Treasure Miss Nepal 2016 is just around the corner and we asked the contestants to tell us a little about themselves and the importance of winning Miss Nepal for them.

Compiled By Avash Shrestha

successful entrepreneur. For her winning Miss Nepal would mean an opportunity to #15 Sandipa Limbu – represent Nepal internationally. Personally, this opportunity will make her more Brought up in , Sandipa grew confident to do something for Nepal. up in a big family which given her a kind heart and also helped her to be honest. #1 Ashma KC – #6 Aayushma Shrestha – #11 Asmi Shrestha – If she wins, she would like to explore Recently completed her BHM from NATHM the deep depths of the country and be College, Ashma is passionate about dance Taplejung A person filled with aspiration and dreams, Chitwan a voice for encouragement, hope and and music. She also loves travelling, Asmi recently graduated in BBA from Ace Aayushma loves playing basketball and dedication. sports and adventure. A self-motivated and Institute of Management. With six years swimming. Travelling has always been a hardworking person, she never neglects of modelling experience, Miss Nepal is part of her life and it helps her to learn an opportunity and believes in change. the next milestone that she set for herself. #16 Srijana Regmi – about different cultures and traditions. If She aspires to become Miss Nepal and Winning for her would mean winning the she wins Miss Nepal she will use her voice Kathmandu continue the legacy of bringing pride and hearts of a million people and being an to influence and encourage the youth. She Srijana recently graduated in Business glory to our country and is fully dedicated ambassador of our country to the world. would also want to prove to the world that Studies from National College. She towards achieving this. She believes winning comes with a lot of she can handle this prestigious title. believes that winning the beautiful responsibilities which one has to wear with crown of Miss Nepal comes with great #2 Kritima Rimal –Ramkot the crown on her head. responsibility. It would give her a Kritima is a fourth year law student at #7 Roshani Khatri – platform to initiate her dream projects of the National Law College. She is very Bungamati #12 Karuna Khadka – helping society and being an ambassador passionate about cooking but also loves Roshani is an IT student at St. Xavier’s Karuna is studying BBA and is a first year of the country. to travel and explore. Winning Miss Nepal College. Roshani is very passionate about student at Siddhartha International College. would mean winning over her dreams. music and literature and engages herself in She loves dancing, singing and travelling. #17 Prativa Dawadi – She also believes this would help her in reading whenever time allows her to do so. As a person she is simple, caring, helpful fulfilling her family’s wishes. It would also She is very talkative and funny with people and most of all hardworking. Being Miss symbolize the victory of a common girl over close to her. She believes that winning Nepal would be a dream come true for Prativa has recently completed her her greatest fear with pure dedication. Miss Nepal is not just about becoming a her and an opportunity to do social work bachelors in business administration. renowned personality of Nepal but also and contribute as much as she can to our She is very passionate about public an inspiration to others. Winning the title society. speaking from a young age. She #3 Sajum Katwal –Kirtipur would help her become an independent, believes that Miss Nepal is a platform Sajum is doing her Bachelor’s in Platinum socially responsible and inspirational for young girls to be acknowledged and Management College. She loves interacting personality. #13 Anita Karki – an opportunity for her to stand for a with people and getting ideas and learning purpose. from them. A fun loving girl, she always Solukhumbu Anita is currently doing her bachelors in keeps a positive attitude which helps her #8 Soniya Sharma – nutrition and dietetics studies. She loves develop. Winning Miss Nepal would help #18 Namrata Shrestha – listening to music and travelling. The Miss her win the trust and faith of people all Swoyambhu Soniya loves to read and listen to people Nepal stage would be the biggest platform Kathmandu over the country. She believes winning so she can learn from both. She also loves for her where she would be able to groom Namrata is doing her bachelors in social Miss Nepal will help her make a difference being alone and at peace where she can herself and represent the country on a world work. Being honest, she admits she is in people’s lives with the opportunities reflect on her life. Winning Miss Nepal stage. Being from a remote area of Nepal, an introvert and may take some time to she will get to work with underprivileged is about achieving her dream and infact, she believes winning would a blessing for open up to people. But she loves dancing people. living the dream. It has been a childhood her. and for whom success is about making dream and it would be a big step in her others happy. If she wins Miss Nepal she #4 Sachina Shrestha – becoming independentit worked. We ended will take advantage of it in a productive up breaking a window. #14 Barsha Lekhi – Saptari manner. Dolkha Barsha recently graduated from Patan Sachina is currently doing BBA from Multiple Campus in environmental science. Himalayan White House International #9 Anshu K.C. – She likes to engage herself in various #19 Prerna Adhikari – College. She likes to speak less but listen Jharuwarashi volunteering activities and awareness Danchhi more, which she believes helps her to programs. She also likes painting and An MBA student at DAV College, Anshu Prerna is an A levels student and will learn. Winning for her means a golden travelling. Winning Miss Nepal would be is interested in dancing and sketching. be pursuing arts education at Grinnell’s opportunity to represent Nepal on an a stepping stone in her career. It would Winning Miss Nepal would mean adding College. She is fully aware of the international platform and leave a positive give her the responsibility to address the another milestone in her life. It would help influence that the Miss Nepal title mark on the world. challenges of women and be able to help her stand as an even more confident lady holder can have and will use this as them in lobbying and advocating the and an ideal daughter of the country. an opportunity to address social issues #5 Jubi Joshi – Kuleshwor problems of society. related with sexual harassment. Jubi recently completed her Bachelors in Business Administration. She is passionate #10 Kusum Thapa Magar – about dancing, travelling and meeting new Butwal Hidden Treasure Fanta Miss Nepal people. Winning Miss Nepal would mean Kusum is currently a student at Little th fulfilling her dream and an opportunity to Angles College of Management where 2016 will be on 8 April 2016 at Hotel make an identity. It would also help her she is doing her BBA. She is very fond become a better person by fulfilling her of dancing and playing table tennis and Annapurna in Kathmandu. responsibilities towards the society. volleyball. Her aim in life is to become a 10

On the Cover Stylist- Rojan Shrestha Make up Artist- Sonu Gurung Designer- Manish Rai Location and Props Courtesy- Craftsman Furniture, Uttar Dhoka

The Woman Who Dreams from The Heart Text by Paula B Magalhaes Designer- Mishu Shrestha 11 Cover Story

“Hello everyone, Namaste!” she walks in for a my journey even further, even after Miss What happens after a Miss hands photo shoot, gracefully juggling two big bags, Nepal. If you don’t see things as a once-in-a- in her crown? a long dress and two phones in her hands. lifetime opportunity, you will not be able to “Every Miss Nepal has her own path of Evana Manandhar is the twentieth Miss broaden your horizon”. success. To me, it is to wholeheartedly Nepal, and although her reign year is coming Besides ‘risks’, adaptability and persuasion be a motivation, to enlighten women in “to an end, she feels like her journey is just were two important words for her as Miss Nepal and encourage Nepalese women starting. “The opportunity you get right after Nepal. She laughingly tells me: “I started around the world to come to implement your crowning year is to work on a project practicing persuasion by convincing my their knowledge in Nepal. That would where you really feel your heart and soul can parents to allow me to leave everything in be something graceful to do for our be attached to. Once a Miss, always a Miss”, America to pursue becoming Miss Nepal”. country”. she says smiling. While getting her make- Besides that, the qualities Evana describes Handing in the crown is not the end up done for her last cover photo shoot as include “the capacity of multi-tasking and of Evana’s involvement with Miss Nepal. Miss Nepal World 2015, we talked about her taking a leadership role”, and “being generous In fact, she hopes that the next Miss memorable experiences during her turbulent and genuine, qualities a Miss Nepal must have Nepal will see her as a sister, someone reign year. besides a charming personality”. Furthermore, to be mentored and inspired by, in order Having been crowned just one week she stresses the importance of being a to gracefully represent Nepal and face before the earthquake on April 25th 2015, communicative “peoples’ person”. “I think the challenges and responsibilities that Evana defines her year as a Miss as having beauty will fade, so these are a few things I come with that task. “I want to help been “a blessing in disguise for our entire really believe that I have, that I can make shine her keep my legacy and embrace all country. It was a learning year for the country through over the years and keep consistent”. opportunities that I will be helping to and for myself”. Far from photo shoots and provide her”. glamorous catwalks, Miss Nepal World 2015 What qualities did you have to Speaking of future plans, as a did not get to be the limelight right after her acquire as Miss Nepal? business student, Evana sees the title of crowning, as it is usually the case for a Miss. “Being composed, poised, humble and down- Miss Nepal as being more than a beauty Instead, Evana started her reign by working to-earth. And the ability to be a sponge and prize, but as a ladder to grow towards for the improvement of hygienic conditions always absorb knowledge”. her career passions. After successfully for women and children living in shelters as completing her reign year, she intends a consequence of the earthquake. Evana feels What do you think Nepalese women to focus on finishing her MBA studies that she got to “touch their hearts not just as need to hear from you? in the USA to become an entrepreneur. Miss Nepal, but as a Nepali woman, and that “In Nepal there is still submission to males. As the multitasker that she is, she also is what I showed at ”. Because of I think women really need to be fearless, wants to work with brand endorsement that, she considers herself the “luckiest Miss bold, independent, and practical and really for her family’s business and become an Nepal to date”. identify their soul search and show their self- ambassador for international causes, “so In the context of the earthquake, Evana reflexion. I think the biggest fear of Nepalese that Nepalese are recognized all over the got to work with people who not every women is not that they are going to fail, but w o r l d ”. Miss would otherwise get to know. And she the fear of identifying what they really want Keeping her goal to always leave took that as a great opportunity: “At Miss for their lives. Nepalese women are already an inspiring legacy behind, as we said Nepal training they would say ‘absorb as a such multitaskers and emotionally stable and goodbye, she asked me to end our sponge’. I was that sponge, gathering so much persevering, and really strong human beings, meeting with a quote. Confidently, she information from people all around me. even more than males in Nepal. But they really picked up my recorder and said: “When Everyone thought the reign year would go need to strive to the very end until they reach one dreams from the eyes it makes one just the ordinary way, but mine was definitely the change they want to see in the society. chase that dream, but when one dreams special. I got the opportunity to work closely You could be a change and example to the from the heart it makes one live it in with communities from different areas of society. You don’t have to be a public figure, be reality. I am the twentieth living legacy Nepal, from to remote an example in your own fields. That is what I in the history of Miss Nepal to have areas I had never been before. I made the want from all of you [Nepalese women]”. lived a dream that came from the heart”. most productive time out of this year.” Having had such a busy and unusual reign year, I asked if it would be possible to describe Five highlights of Evana’s year as Miss Nepal World 2015 a ‘typical day’ in her life as a Miss. “There is a typical day in which I won’t put make-up on, will just be myself and people won’t recognize “The night I got crowned. It was Mother’s Day and that was my gift for my mother, Era. She me!” she laughs. Whenever she has time for is the light behind me. She cried more than I did that night. [chuckles]. She is a designer herself, she makes it a priority to share it with and the one who groomed me into becoming a graceful woman. My family from America came her family, which is split between Nepal and 1to cheer for me and I remember my uncle Niraj hooting on the stage. Family is really what composes me. I am so thankful for my family and friends in America too”. the USA. On another kind of day, she will be rushing through events “going insane, “When I became the Biodiversity Ambassador for National Trust for Nature Conservation without time to even pick up my mum’s call (NTNC). A really memorable thing was to hold a python and release it in the wild. A wild, and trying to focus on the events I have to Burmese python! I thought snakes were lethal but then I felt that they were the most peaceful creatures. I think animals have the same amount of emotions and feelings as humans, I really attend. I always make it a point to leave a 2felt that. Touching and embracing Nepal’s wildlife was a stepping stone to really flourish my motivational speech at every event that I go inner walls of becoming Miss Nepal”. t o”. She wants to inspire women and “The earthquake and my birthday happened on the same day [April 25th, 2015]. It was a blessing and a disgrace, and combined it was enlightenment. It brought enlightenment and youngsters to “come out of their comfort zone awareness to Nepalese people who tried to rebuild Nepal in a different direction, especially and take risks and opportunities with pride, 3in terms of tourism and foreign aid. I thank all countries, US Aid, United Nations... whoever instead of regretting never taking the step. came to provide aid. It was a moment of bringing togetherness to the country by the whole That is what I do”. Evana has been through world”. two traumatic events in her lifetime from “When my parents were in Sanya, China, and had a four-people-sized flag of Nepal on the which she came out stronger. “I had a car stage of Miss World while my video “Travel for Relief” for the ‘Beauty With A Purpose’ accident in 2013, when I came back to Nepal, 4competition was telecasted live from China to billions of people.” and that really broadened my horizon of ”My dance at ‘Dances Of The World’. I was top 7 and that will really be something I will taking opportunities, because you get them remember for life. I danced with all my heart there. I chose that song because I wanted to only once. And also the earthquake... These signify myself as a Nepalese woman. A pride I will keep forever is that people recognized me are two things that happened in my life that 5as ‘Nepal’ rather than just ‘Evana’”. will always make me take the risk and push Entertainment//Music 12

crew was also not an easy ride. Not accustomed to trekking in such high altitudes, she almost did not make it all the way up to Thorang-La Pass. She questioned her decision to take up such a project and felt it was not worth all the pain that she was going through. Kim’s father had also made the trek along with her daughter. Having studied music in France and pursued her career as a piano player abroad for long durations, she felt she had a sense of detachment from her father. Therefore, she had specially prepared a song dedicated to him that she had planned to play during her Guinness Record attempt. However, her father could not make it all the way to Throng-La Pass. Due to altitude sickness, her father had to stop a day’s trek before the location of the performance. Though, Kim is a bit disappointed about not being able to perform the special song for her father; The World’s she was thankful that her father made the attempt. Kim also believes she grew closer to her father during the trek and will always be grateful for all the fond memories they shared together in Nepal. On 21st October, 2015; Karam Highest Note Kim successful performed the highest Text by Avash Shrestha musical performance in world history. Nevertheless, Karam Kim also aram Kim had never been to several times and like most tourists Kim was surprised with the reduced expressed with fondness the way Nepal. Neither is she an avid who visit this beautiful country had number of vehicles on the road. But the sound of her music sounded in trekker. Therefore, when her developed a love for this place. He she was then informed of the unofficial the high altitude of the inhibited manager, Mr. Chul Ho Jin had also trekked in the Annapurna Indian fuel embargo that has heavily Thorang-La Pass. The sounds of her Kbrought the idea of doing a Trekking circuit and seen the beauty affected the daily lives of Nepal. Her music disappeared quickly but could musical performance in the Thorang- of the region. Therefore, when the motivation to help Nepal grew even be heard echoing as it presumably La Pass at an altitude of 5416 meters, tragedy struck Nepal on 25th April more. The Assistant Director for the travelled the expansive Thorang-La she thought it was crazy. Everyone else there was always been an urge to project, then contacted Wangchu Pass and returned after hitting the high who heard about the plan thought the help out and contribute towards Sherpa of Trekking Camp Nepal who mountains beyond. With her love for same and were also worried about the the rebuilding process. Exaggerated organized for the logistics in Nepal all kinds of music, Kim plans to visit possibility of her talented fingers being news of Nepal’s total devastation and and the transportation for the piano Nepal again for a charity performance affected due to frostbite. However, with the huge reduction in the number to Thorang-La Pass. A group of 13 and is also looking for an opportunity her passion for music and her interest of tourists from South Korea and all Sherpas and one cook led by Lakpa to participate in the annual Jazzmandu. in bringing about awareness of the safe over the world, brought about the Sherpa were assigned with the task. Her love for all genres of music situation in Nepal after the earthquake; opportunity for Karam Kim and her While, Kim and her team took the resonated on the way she quickly learnt Karam Kim decided she would make team to organize a performance that regular trekking route from Pokhara the tunes of ‘Resham Firiri’ which she this attempt that has also got her into would help to bring about awareness of via Ghorepani to Throng-La Pass; the played for underprivileged children the Guinness Book of World Records. the safety for tourists in Nepal. Naming piano was transported to Jomsom and in Pokhara after completing her Not short of accomplishments, Karam the project ‘Piano and Ice Cream’, in then carried to Throng-La Pass by historic Thorang-La Pass performance. Kim has already won the Piano World relation to piano representing peace the porters. Kim was very thankful to The proceeds collected from the Championship back in 2001 and also and ice cream denoting to joy; Karam the Sherpas who carefully and safely performance were also used to treat the best prize at the International Kim formed a team and set out to carried the 500 kg grand piano to such these underprivileged children with Concours de I’ile-de-France. Nepal. a high altitude. ice-cream to help bring them a sense Kim’s manager had been to Nepal On arrival at the Kathmandu airport, The trek for Karam Kim and her of joy.

Ruslan is broken by his circumstance in the fantasy world to meet magical AMAZING ADVENTURE but hasn’t lost his fight. His sets out characters like Pirouette (Sunmina in search of discovering himself and Sampang) and the warriors who fight unraveling the wonders in between. On his the world. The show is crafted under the MUSICAL BROADWAY SHOW ride to the unknown he meets beautiful supervision of Yulia Koirala the Executive mystical characters, who escort him into Director and Founder at SAA. Koirala has Text by Vijayshree Sukhani a land of magic, mystery and fantasy. been working passionately to promote The story begins with Ruslan narrating and support Arts in Nepal. Her vision to he story of a young orphan named individuals being trained in over all as in older man. The young boy in Act 1 open the dance academy was to elevate Ruslan, encapsulated in a beautiful performances and full artistry in singing before the entry of young Ruslan, is an the dance training available in Nepal to a musical broadway show has been and delivering high quality shows. The T outstanding dancer and definitely raises higher standard. doing its rounds in Kathmandu all of story is about Ruslan, a young orphan the bar of theatre in Nepal. His dance March. Ford Nepal organized a special who despite having a strikingly dark past moves are seamless and his pain is Act 3 is about an offence that has been screening for its clients to witness believes there is something better out agonizing. Then enters young Ruslan who committed and Ruslan must suffer the the magnificence of Broadway style there for him. It was an inspired idea of narrates his years of child labor and ill consequences. But this time he has more performance in the valley & also interact Alize Biannic the Artistic Director at SAA treatment. Ruslan’s Godmother (Maradee than just faith to save him, his Godmother with the valuable customers. to write a story about an orphan who is de Guzman) breathes life into him and intervenes to restore the fantasy world and The stunning presentation rode living in a wonderland. Having spent 4 rescues him to a dreamy fantasy world. unite as one with nature and each other. the audience on a journey of visual and years at the Royal Ballet in she UK Biannic The whole show is represented in dancing, chorographical elegance. The concept has explored new creative challenges. Lasting for an hour and a half the show acting, singing and poetry. The music is designed by Sushila Arts Academy (SAA) What started as a dream and concept is resonates of love, hope and illusions. In enchanting all the actors performances a selected group of first generation now a full blown amazing show. Act 2 Ruslan and his godmother arrive is endearing,

EQ Feature Story 14 Thinking to Reconstruct Kasthamandap? Love Thy Mud, Brick, and Wood First.

Text by dR. Sudarshan Raj Tiwari

s the earth trembled violently on that of listed monuments with 151 collapses, of promotion and use of indigenous day, a blood donation program was 474 suffering heavy damage, and about building knowledge system and about to conclude at Kasthamandap, 500 others suffering minor damage. All technology. Indigenous building culture Awith the participants collecting to line seven monument zones of the Kathmandu anywhere develops without the play of up for a photo session, when the cherished Valley World Heritage Sites (KVWHS) external processed knowledge. Its origins heritage building that gave its name to the suffered similar damage, with as many as follow the dictates of local geology town and the valley, collapsed, killing 10 38 monuments collapsing and 157 heavily and building materials and progresses people. damaged. through technological trials to meet the Almost immediately, calls for While the international heritage demands of local natural environment. earthquake-resistant reconstruction conservation community requires and Within the constraints and limits of the of the monument were made, seeming seeks of Nepal maximum efforts to retain building materials, the monuments of as though an autopsy by those who and regain the outstanding unique value, KVWHS have incorporated the summary knew had concluded that the building authenticity, and integrity of KVWHS knowledge and long experience of its was inherently weak. One should not in reconstruction works, the national builders in facing inclement earthquakes. forget that Kasthamandap had been discourse of post-disaster reconstruction Thus, even as destruction and damage shaken several times and by much larger has been dominated by unmitigated wrought by this earthquake on our earthquakes earlier, and had stood up well concern for building earthquake resistance traditional architectural heritage has until 2015. Such performance should be as the primary requirement. Nepal’s been massive, the indigenous knowledge telling enough for experts not to decry its heritage architecture is pre-industrial, and and experience need to be expounded in design, but look elsewhere for the reason uses natural building materials and locally reconstruction. thereof. Moreover, protecting its values has developed technology, all of which stand in Unfortunately, although the Nepal to be the primary priority, and increased stark contrast to the earthquake-resistant Earthquake 2015 Post Disaster Needs earthquake resistance a desirable side gain. planning and building code requirements Assessment names Cultural Heritage Besides massive loss of lives and that are based on industrial materials like under Social Sector and places it as its property, the destructive April 25 steel and concrete, and the knowledge/ sixth sub-head, it disastrously defines earthquake and its huge aftershock analysis systems that promote them. recovery needs of cultural heritage as ‘to of May 12 brought about a heritage However, reconstruction of heritage build back better through the use of high emergency, damaging more than 90% buildings needs to be backed by a policy quality building materials and structural EQ Feature Story improvements for seismic strengthening’ (NPC, 2015). A recent official document states that ‘for the reason that old buildings built with brick in mud mortar are not earthquake-resistant structures, they were totally destroyed killing many lives’ (JICA, 2015). When national policy to ‘built back better’ is informed by assessments so insensitive towards the values of the heritage, they make nothing less than sharp instruments of terror pointing at the architectural heritage of the Valley. Lack of established tools and computational coefficients to integrate property of specific type of mud mortar and brick walls reinforced with a system of timber posts, plates and ties, aggravates the potential harm, as the application of modern building system led damage assessment, vulnerability analysis, and structural retrofitting/ design/strengthening systems are preferred. Such incongruities are likely to add up when the other traditional elements of earthquake resistance, such as solid brick terraced plinths, wooden collectors and packed joist floor diaphragms, connectors and wedges, double framing of doors and windows openings, symmetry, proportions and measures, cornices, ring ties, and struts link between roof ends and walls, etc., are neglected. In the cacophony of alien knowledge systems, if such marvels of our heritage as Kasthamandap are devalued, why reconstruct at all? Let’s hope that our conservation engineers will apply sensitive anamnesis, diagnosis, and therapy, while assessing our architectural heritage. A partial archaeological trench cut across the sanctum floor of Kasthamandap to study its geological setting and foundation has revealed that a deep strip foundation using brick and mud mortar and width equal to the thickness of the core walls that enclosed the sanctum had been provided, and is in well preserved state. Another shallow brick strip foundation is provided for the plinth wall in the perimeter of the building. The bottom of the foundations appears sandy and wet. A one-brick-wide thin divider wall, corresponding to the inner sanctum square formed by the massive timber posts, appears to divide the building trench into nine pits, as was ritual then. And, the thin divider wall and the uniform backfill indicate that the whole sanctum area was dug out first, the Almost a year after ritual walls constructed and back-filled that the base timber ties laid on floor to tie the disastrous as construction progressed, so that these the 16 pillars (‘shorakutte’) were removed earthquake, we look the assessments of earthquake damage walls did not take any lateral pressure to make the modern floor paving, into the progress of take a three pronged basic stance: (i) and had no retaining function. But the reconstruicting the study the traditional design, materials, severely compromising the stability of the oldest monument of crossings of the divider walls so exactly columnar design. It is essential to study Kathmandu. and technology, and their performance, define the position of the posts that they the history of renovations, interferences, (ii) assess and avoid the mistakes and could well have supported timber plinth additions, and subtractions made on the anomalies made in the past restorations, ties in the past. heritage building. Assessments indicate and (iii) state of maintenance and decay It is also clear that the foundations that some of the ‘restored’ heritage of wood connectors, collectors, and ties have been constructed at one time, and monuments suffered spectacular damages and their joints. If any retrofit is needed, there has been no change or additions more due to poorly thought out recent the principle must be to use traditional during its long history. The brick floor post-concrete interventions than the material and method, improving over is recent, and no sills of any kind defects or decay in historical design, their performance through innovative are observed, both of which indicate detail, or material itself in KVWHS. composite construction of wood and compromising interventions. It appears It is therefore recommended that brick system. Entertainment//Timeoff 16

The 8th Enfield Poker Run

Text by Ankit Shakya / Nepal Autolife 17 Entertainment//Get Started

inging in the New Year amidst Police escort till the outskirts of the valley the park either. You will have to give it your a writhing mess of sweaty and back up vehicles, mechanics, and spare proper attention and effort if you ever hope bodies drunkenly flailing to parts in stock there is very little chance of of creating a bond with your machine. For the really loud tunes of a local anyone running into any major problems. the fortunate ones who do create this bond, DJ just doesn’t cut it. Roaring Not many would really believe that the the experience is definitely rewarding. through the highways riding first edition of the Poker Run started off Your motorcycle becomes a medium of a loud mechanical steed, on with just 10 riders. Rabi Thapa (CEO of expression and it will take you places in Rthe other hand, seems more like it. And Sacred Summits Pvt. Ltd) in association ways you could never experience inside a that is exactly what many Royal Enfield with an Australian friend Stewart Mclean, rolling cabin. enthusiasts have been doing to welcome the had initiated the event in 2009 in memory Despite the different characteristics Nepali New Year for the last 8 years. They of their riding friend late Binod Chhetri, an and uniqueness, there is an unmistakable call it the Enfield Rendezvous and Poker adventurer and a die-hard fan of the Royal sense of camaraderie between the riders Run. Enfield motorcycles. which keeps bringing them back together In its core, the Enfield Rendezvous & Royal Enfields run the show at the Poker year after year. This year, Sacred Summits Poker Run is a non-competitive annual Run, and apart from the occasional Harley has pushed it up a notch with the 8th motorcycle riding event aimed at bringing Davidson, Triumph, or a decked out Honda Royal Enfield Rendezvous and Poker Run. together Royal Enfield and other classic CB you will be hard pressed to find any It will take place from the 12th-14th of vintage motorcycle riders for a ride other run of the mill motorcycle. And it is April 2016 and riders will be able to enjoy through the Nepali countryside. To make no coincidence either. You won’t find me the accommodation and facilities of The things more interesting, each rider gets to lugging my generic commuter bike amongst Fulbari Resort &Spa Pokhara along with draw a card at each pit stop to accumulate these retro and classic motorcycles. It isn’t free flowing alcohol and BBQ dinner to a single hand of Poker where the winner just about the image though. What you usher in the Nepali New Year 2073 BS. After receives and award along with some have to realize is that anyone who gets a the celebrations, the riders are welcome to massive goodies. . In addition to that, there Royal Enfield doesn’t just get one for the partake in the charity ride organized to help are also other various specific awards and sake of it. These machines are not primarily and support a local school the next day. the check points offer free food, drinks or used to get from point A to B and people The Poker Run is Nepal’s biggest lucky spots prizes. who acquire one for that purpose are truly extravaganza on two wheels and they are The event is a well orchestrated affair missing out. These motorcycles come from not too coy about it either. Even if they which is a commendable feat considering the stables of one of the longest running tried, keeping a patrol of 200 Royal Enfields there are over 200 Royal Enfield companies in the world and their century silent can be a gargantuan task. By the looks motorcycles thundering through the route old heritage commands respect and passion. of it, no one really appears to be trying to to Pokhara at a single go. However, Sacred Owning a Bullet entails that you take in its hide their presence. And that is exactly how Summits Pvt Ltd has been doing a splendid culture and heritage, which is why you see you welcome a new year, loud, proud and job of organizing the largest motorcycle so many people purchasing old beauties with unbridled passion. Hold on to your rally in Nepal consisting of riders and people discard as junk. To be honest, horses for the loudest and biggest reunion participants from all over the world. With owning and caring for one isn’t a walk in in Nepal– The Enfield Poker Run. Entertainment//Sports 18

IPseasonL is well and truly on2016 and not even a week since the end be fought out in a league-cum-playoffs format. After playing home and away of the ICC T20 World Cup, the will matches with each of the other teams, the top 4 teams will qualify for the take over our television sets. With the 3 million USD up for playoffs. The top two teams will then play a semi-final match for a berth in the T20grabs, the players of the eight franchises will be giving it their finals. While the loser of that match will get to another shot at the finals when all to add to their already huge salaries. This year’s IPL will feature two new they get to play a match against the winner of the eliminator between the 3rd teams, namely the Gujarat Lions and Rising Pune Supergiants in absence of and 4th placed teams. Here is a guide to picking your favorite team or your the suspended and Rajasthan Royals. The contest will guide to placing the right bets.

Text by aVASH SHRESTHA

Gujarat Lions Even though Gujarat Lions is a new franchise, the Rajkot based team will be one of the favorites in this year’s IPL. Captained by the ever-consistent Suresh Raina, Gujarat have a host of T20 expert Daredevils overseas players Yet to win the IPL, the #DilliBoys have all to prove in this year’s tournament. Though like Brendon the team from the capital have finished top of the league twice, the Daredevils have McCullum, Dwayne consistent all-rounder will be eager failed to make an appearance in the finals of the eight earlier editions of the IPL. Bravo, Aaron Finch, to show his leadership qualities in Quite possibly with the largest or at least the most diverse fan base, the Daredevils Dwayne Smith and his bid to prove his credence and must prove their fearlessness. They have recently hired Rahul Dravid as the team James Faulkner and to show to Indian selectors that it mentor, who though in his playing days is more associated with his calmness in probably the most is not only Dhoni and the longest format of the game, will add a much needed experienced head in the dangerous paceman who can the Indian team. otherwise young squad. South African all-rounder JP Duminy will be the star man in in the world in In addition to Raina’s right arm off- the Daredevils team and his ability to contribute both with the bat in the late stages of Dale Steyn. Raina break bowling, Ravindra Jadeja is the game and use the spin friendly Indian pitches will be key to the team’s success. who has been in another skilled spinner who knows the forefront of the the Indian tracks well and will be a Indian team as a dangerous.

Kings XI Punjab The most important aspect of the Kings XI Punjab team is that a number of their players is knocking on the doors of the Indian team selectors and will be more than ever determined to impress in the IPL. Rishi Dhawan, Murali Vijay, Gurkeerat Singh, Axar Patel and Mohit Sharma. All these players have had short stints in the Indian team but will be making their bid to becoming regulars. Punjab also have the expertise of the solid South African, David Miller and the dynamic Australian duo Glenn Maxwell and Shaun Marsh, to help post huge scores. Mitchell Johnson, who has recently retired from international , will look to torment the opponents’ batting line up with his tremendous pace and his Hulk Hogan style moustache. 19 Entertainment//Sports

Mumbai Indians talent to pick from and are being Jasprit Bumrah are all very The defending champions will be pitched as tournament favorites. proven bowlers who can walk looking to emulate the suspended Kieron Pollar, Corey Anderson into any T20 team. With Ricky Chennai SuperKings in being and Hardik Pandya are all very Ponting (head coach), Shane the only team to successfully handy with the bat and bowl but Bond (bowling coach) and Jonty win the IPL two years in a row. will not be guaranteed places Rhodes (fielding coach) acting as Captain Rohit Sharma along with in the team. , the support staff; the Bollywood legendary team mentor, Sachin Mitchell McClenaghan, Time team will be looking to ‘rock the Tendulkar, have a vast pool of Southee, and world’!

Royal Challengers Bangalore RCB are slowly picking up the reputation of being the entertainers of the IPL, but this time will try and add a championship to their entertainment value. Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, and Shane Watson are proven match-winners for their national teams who will look their bowling by restricting the to emulate their stardom in opponents in posting big scores. With this year’s IPL. While Mitchell team ambassadors like Katrina Kaif, Starc, Adam Milne and David Deepika Padukone and the Mallaya The Hyderabad team can be labelled as the dark horses of this year’s IPL. Wiese will need to give those family cheering them on; RCB will Captained by fiery Australian, David Warner, the Sunrisers will be boosted by superstars the support with always be a team to lookout for. the costly addition of . Along with Kiwis captain, Kane Williamson and Three Lions captain, , this team is full of experience, leadership and most of all the skill that is all required for winning the IPL. Trent Boult, Bhuvaneshwar Kumar and Mustafizur Rahman are all expert pacemen who will give the pitch curators of the Rajiv Gadhni Cricket Stadium in Hyderabad more than one reason to prepare pace friendly pitches to add to the home advantage.

Kolkatta Knight Riders The two-time IPL champions will be looking to give reasons to their superstar owner, Shahrukh Khan, dance to the team’s theme song, ‘Korbo, Lorbo, Jeetbo Re!’ and hopefully add to their trophy cabinet at the end of the tournament. A well-rounded team, KKR, also Rising Pune Supergiants have a star-studded coaching staff in as head coach Even though the Pune team are in their inaugural and Wasim Akram as bowling coach. Cool and composed veteran, IPL tournament, the Supergiants team will be one will once again captain the team while Sunil of the best bets to win this year’s trophy. With three Narine will be vital in his exploits of the sub-continent conditions. international team captains in, Mahendra Singh Colin Munro, Shakib Al-Hasan, , Chris Lynn and Dhoni, Faf du Plessis and Steven Smith; the Pune Morne Morkel will be fighting for the four overseas players spot team will be looking to snatch the IPL crown from allowed in the starting XI. their Maharashtra neighbors. and Ravichandra Ashwin are both experienced Indian All IPL matches will be telecast in screens at Rodi Bar, bowlers that will boost the new team, while Mitchell Soaltee Crowne Plaza starting from 9 April every evening from Marsh, Thisara Perera, Albie Morkel and Kevin 8.00 PM onwards. Pietersen will give them the international firepower to becoming debutant champions.

5 most expensive auction buys of each team An important part of the IPL happens even before the start of the tournament when all Nathu Singh (Bowler) - Rs 3.2 Royal Challengers Bangalore crore Shane Watson (All-rounder) - Rs the teams go head to head together at the auction table. A grand total of IRs. Rs 329.72 Tim Southee (Bowler) - Rs 2.5 9.5 crore crore was spent when 94 players were sold to the various teams. Here is a list of the 5 crore Stuart Binny (All-rounder) - Rs most expensive buys of each franchise Krunal Pandya (All-rounder) - Rs 2 crore 2 crore Kane Richardson (Bowler) - Rs Delhi Daredevils (Wicketkeeper) - Farhaan Behardien (All-rounder) - Kishore Pramod Kamath (All- 2 crore Pawan Negi (All-rounder) - Rs Rs 2.3 crore Rs 30 lakh rounder) - Rs 1.4 crore (Bowler) - Rs 50 8.5 crore Dwayne Smith (All-rounder) - Rs lakh Chris Morris (All-rounder) - Rs 2.3 crore Rising Pune Supergiants Travis Head (Batsman, 7 crore Dhawal Kulkarni (Bowler) - Rs Jaydev Unadkat (Bowler) - Rs 1.6 Mitchell Marsh (All-rounder) - Rs Wicketkeeper) - Rs 50 lakh Carlos Brathwaite (All-rounder) - 2 crore crore 4.8 crore Rs 4.2 crore Ankit Singh Rajpoot (Bowler) - Rs M Ashwin (Bowler) - Rs 4.5 crore Sunrisers Hyderabad Sanju Samson (Wicketkeeper) - Kings XI Punjab 1.5 crore Ishant Sharma (Bowler) - Rs 3.8 Yuvraj Singh (All-rounder) - Rs Rs 4.2 crore Mohit Sharma (Bowler) - Rs 6.5 John Hastings (Bowler) - Rs 1.3 crore crore 7 crore (Batsman) - Rs 4 crore (All-rounder) - Rs 70 Kevin Pietersen (Batsman) - Rs Ashish Nehra (Bowler) - Rs 5.5 crore (Bowler) - Rs 2.1 lakh 3.5 crore crore crore Colin Munro (All-rounder) - Rs 30 Irfan Pathan (All-rounder) - Rs 1 Deepak Hooda (All-rounder) - Rs Gujarat Lions KC Cariappa (Bowler) - Rs 80 lakh crore 4.2 crore Praveen Kumar (Bowler) - Rs lakh Thisara Perera (All-rounder) - Rs Mustafizur Rahman (Bowler) - Rs 3.5 crore Marcus Stoinis (All-rounder) - Rs Mumbai Indians 1 crore 1.4 crore Dale Steyn (Bowler) - Rs 2.3 crore 55 lakh Jos Buttler (Wicketkeeper, Aditya Tare (Wicketkeeper) - Rs Batsman) - Rs 3.8 crore 1.2 crore Entertainment//Timeoff 20 Innovative Food in an Inviting Atmosphere Bú Kebá provides quality organic fare in a delightfully rustic environment.

Text by Evangeline Neve

knows exactly where This was a great vegetarian dish and There’s so much variety in what’s the food they serve is while looking through the menu I on offer in the menu here that I coming from and also was impressed by the good selection would highly recommend ordering allowing the farmer to and choice available here—if you’re a a selection of dishes to share with get a better price for his vegetarian I think you’ll be pleased to friends rather than each person product by selling to them find that the options here are different getting their own meal, so that directly. As an example, from what everyone else is serving. everyone can have the opportunity the buckwheat—used in The Buckwheat Spinach Pancake with to try some of the more out-of-the- Bú Kebá’s signature dishes mushrooms and mozzarella looked ordinary things that are served here. of pancakes and mo:mo— particularly tasty. Krishna Khatri, Executive Chef at he first thing that struck comes from Upper Mustang. After the paneer we dug in to the Bú Kebá, oversees a team of five me on entering Bú Kebá in And while of course this Pizza “Diavola,” topped with jalapeno chefs that each focus on different Bakhundole, Lalitpur, was the focus on healthy ingredients is all well slices, black olives, and chilli flakes. cuisines and they have certainly Tamount of care and effort that and good, it wouldn’t matter if the Spices and more chilli are provided done an amazing job of creating has gone into the décor. It’s lovely food wasn’t tasty – fortunately for us on the side so that you can spice up and serving a menu that brings and rustic, and everywhere you turn all, it is! your slice even more if you want to. variety and tastiness to the local there are seating areas just beckoning We began our meal with the Masala Pizzas seem to be a popular item with dining scene. you to come in, sit down, and relax. Fish, one of the dishes from this customers here, and we really enjoyed Currently Bú Kebá is open In addition to indoor and outdoor week’s special menu. In addition to the ours. Among the choices is also Goat from 12 noon to 10:30 pm, though tables, you can sit under a tented restaurant’s regular menu, specials are Cheese Pizza, as well as a Tandoori Rekha Khetan told us they will canopy, or climb the stairs to a relaxed also offered on a rotating basis with Pizza, both of which looked excellent, soon be open for breakfast, too. upper seating area, which is private new items each week. I’m a real fish and if you don’t find exactly what Every Friday there’s a live band with and beautiful with cushions on the lover, and I’m happy to tell you that you’re looking for, there’s always the Shrijana Tandukar, featuring Sufi floor and delicate curtains blowing this is one great dish. Steaks of rahu option of customizing your own pizza music. in the breeze around you. The overall fish were cooked to perfection—still from the list of toppings on offer. Bú Kebá takes its name from effect of the place is reminiscent of an moist and tender—and topped with Our last dish from the specials two Newari words—Bú meaning a upscale jungle lodge; the kind of place a spicy, crunchy topping of finely menu was the Timbur Chicken, large paddy farm and Kebá which you would like sit and relax all day, a shredded spring onions and spices, cooked with celery and highly is a small vegetable garden like you peaceful atmosphere to unwind in. predominantly jwano. I was afraid the seasoned with timbur and other spices. might have at home. Somehow this Bú Kebá was opened five years ago spices might overwhelm the fish but This is a great choice for those who sums up their intent to bring farm by Rekha Khetan and specializes in instead it provided a perfect, delicious like spicy food, and like much of what to table in a way that is not only organic cuisine. She told us that they balance. The portion was generous we tasted, would make a perfect snack healthy but also delicious. This is a try to ensure that at least 60-75% of all too, which was a good thing as it was with something cold to drink as you place that is definitely worth a visit. the ingredients used in their kitchen so tasty we all kept reaching for more. relax in the evening. The pleasantly You won’t be disappointed. are completely organic. One way that The second dish we tried was mouth-numbing effect of the timbur they have done this is by developing from the normal menu, Paneer with the juicy chicken made this a Bú Kebá: The Organic Village Cafe relationships with and sourcing Tika—again, I was impressed by the dish that we all really enjoyed, and it’s is located in Bakhundole, Lalitpur, opposite the SNV office. Open daily directly from farmers in various generous portion size: large, tasty something a little different from the from 12 noon to 10:30 pm; villages and districts; this has the dual chunks of spiced paneer served with a usual Chicken Chilli or other chicken Tel. no: 5524368. benefit of both ensuring that Bú Kebá fantastic fresh and tangy mint sauce. snacks. 21 Entertainment//MovieEntertainment//Cocktail Review

The Sky Has No Limit

tequila and orange juice is mixed and poured into the glass along with ice and then added with grenadine which settle down in the bottom of the glass, giving the drink a feel of the sky during sunrise presumably the reason for its name. The signature drink of Sky Lounge to go along with its theme is the Blue Horizon. The relatively strong cocktail is a mixture of vodka and tequila along with blue curacao lemonade. Served in a martini glass, the classy drink along with the blue ceiling will make you feel you are at the right place. However, all the cocktails of Sky Lounge are impressive and of a of this place with the choice between the relatively affordable price range so you can sophisticated hard drinks or the chilled enjoy more than just one glass of it. bright cocktails. The most popular cocktail in Sky Sky Lounge mocktails Lounge is definitely the vodka based • Rum Based – Capirinha, Mojito, Pinacolada, Bluw Hawaiian, Mai Tai ‘Sex on the Beach’. This fruity cocktail • Gin Based – Dry Martini, Blue Sky, Singapore is a shaken mixture of vodka and peach Sling ituated just a block away from schnapps along with cranberry and • Vodka Based – White Russian, Black Russian, Durbar Marg, Sky Lounge is a orange juice. Since this drink is all shaken Sex on the Beach very inviting lounge bar which is • Whisky Based – Old Fashioned, Round the together before being poured in, there World, Manhattan, Mint Julep a perfect merger of a relaxed and are no layers that one would enjoy more • Tequila Based – Margarita, Tequila Sunrise, Selegant setting. The graffiti filled walls than the other. A very sweet cocktail, this Mexicola, Blue Margarita provide a colorful backdrop to the classy alcoholic drink is relatively very easy to • Hot Alcoholic Drinks – Irish Coffee, Coconut touch that the cozy lush-looking seating Coffee, Hot Rum Punch drink and will make you wanting more of • Long Alcoholic Cocktails – Long Island Ice area. The ceiling of the entire lounge it with every glass. Sex on the Beach sports Tea, Sunset Island, Boston Iced Tea transforms into a beautiful blue giving a provocative name for a harmless fruity • Mocktails – African Beauty, Honeymoon, customers the breezy feeling once the drink. Cinderella, Mint Cooler, Virgin Pinacolada, Sweet Dream, Yeti’s Smile drinks start flowing. Another favorite of the Sky Lounge is Talking about drinks, Sky Lounge has the ‘Tequila Sunrise’. With a cute lime cut an excellent selection of excellent liquor in the shape of a sun adorning the glass Every Friday DJ Umesh takes control of the along with a colorful variety of cocktails edge, the layered tequila based drink is a music at the Sky Lounge. Please contact 9849552341 if you need more information and mocktails. Therefore the drinks slightly strong drink but still sweet enough or for queries. menu perfectly resonates the ambience to make you order more than one. The Entertainment//Movie Review 22

Fight of the Gods! Text by Vijayshree Sukhani

atman V Superman – Dawn of Justice Director hard to find? Kryptonite, everyone seems Superman’s acts in Africa where is created is a much darker and at times even Zack Snyder to own a little bit of it and in some dirty mass destruction because the woman he frightening version created by Zack Starring undertaking Luthor acquires the whole ship loved could have shot or blown but stands Ben Affleck, Henry Synder. If one was hoping for PG type of it – White Portuguese, something Batman strongly by his action. Hunter seems to be B Cavill, Jesse Eisen- justice league, Michael Keaton Batman and berg, Amy Adams, also wants his hands on. Having played dazed by her own character and to make Christopher Reeves Superman the movie Diane Lane, Gal Mark Zuckerberg in the Social Network matters worse her hair is even stranger than would be a through disappointment. This Gadot (2010) before Eisenberg retains some of the Luthors. time fear and uncertainty is compelling Genre arrogance required by the character and Christopher Nolan revamped Batman the characters to make bad decisions super Superhero/Action portrays a convincing psychotic but fails with Batman Begins in 2005 followed by heroes are just not supposed to make. DC short to deliver it with any charm. The Dark Knight and The Dark Knight was bold enough to create a conundrum for Many are left wondering why Superman Rises with a more humane, glossy, and with the fans to engage till the end. and Batman pitched against each other, it combating modern battles. Connecting Superman, Clark Kent (Henry Cavill) takes a deeper understanding to recognize with Christian Bale was seamless because of is undoudtently heroic but the mass that these are both conflicting characters, his human touch but in the DC universe it destruction he has inflicted often to save the still a little uncomfortable in their own skin seemed to be pushed to far trying to use it women he loves, Lois Lane (Amy Adams) and struggling with their special identities. like a readymade formula; Watchmen, Man has left the people of earth questioning his That being said the values they stand for of Steel both which were directed by Snyder. integrity and intentions. Batman, Bruce should put both of them on the same side of When two of the greatest super heroes Wayne (Ben Affleck) has the urge to kill the line and not against. Their desire to fight are pitched against each other it is the Superman fearing his actions are often gone each other has no solid grounds and they darkest of the dark. Those who have read unchecked and has to be put in place. For a forming a friendship over a common ground the comic’s before are aware of the standoff mere 2 hours and 33 minutes there is a lot is even funnier. Diana Lana plays Martha between the two but in the big screen it’s happening and the number of things one has Kent, Superman’s mother whose only role more about the conflict of the ideologies. to grab are one too many. was to provide her name to stop a fight that One of the few scenes praise worthy Hyper expensive scenes are drawn out would have changed the course of the DC is a casual conversation between Clark for the ultimate battle between Batman and universe. Alfred (Jeremy Irons) feels more Kent, Bruce Wayne and Luthor at a press Superman whilst a new threat, Doomsday is of a mechanic than a butler. He lacks the dry conference. It’s the kind of build up one built by Lex Luthor (Jesse Eisenberg) Man humor or warmth like the old Englishman looks for and showcases the superiority of of Steel’s nemesis. A new ally decides to who played him before. The only time he the characters without their superpowers. join in, Wonder Women, Diana Prince (Gal makes a compelling case is while warning Marvel released Dealpool in February Gadot) who definitely is a breath of fresh air Batman that taking on Superman would be that was applauded for its cheekiness and and full of Meta! Super strong with a cool suicide, as you don’t mess with immortals. derision but sadly Batman Vs Superman: kind of badassery, wonder woman seems Lois needs Superman bit too often for The Dawn of Justice is mediocre and to get more done than both the super boys her own rescues. She is the journalist at delivers nothing like its predecessor’s charm put together. It’s pretty clear where the 250 Daily Planet where editor Perry White or camp value. The movie gives a glimpse million have been spend. Not a day is passed (Laurence Fishburne) constantly reminds of what’s to come in the years, which could in Metropolis when things are not blown up us newspapers are worth nothing. Clark presumably be a equivalent to Marvel’s or torn down. Frankly Metropolis becomes Kent and Lois try to infuse the angle that Avengers. a playground for the superheroes and too by publishing Superman’s virtue stories it much damage is done too often for reasons would be doing the right thing but the effort Batman V Superman Dawn of Justice is often unexplained. is futile. Holly Hunter plays the Senator who being shown at Cine-de-Chef, Civil Trade Luthor is an antagonist who hides detests Luthor and makes it her sole mission Center, Sundhara. For ticket booking contact behind his shabby hair and trying-to- to not fulfill his irrational demands. She is +977-01-4248402, 4248403 hard funny jokes. You know what’s not also on the hearing committee to evaluate Still not sure where you want to go this Nepali New Year’s Ever? Fr!day’s Party Guide makes it easier. With a range of options, the guide will help you choose Nepali New Year's Eve Party the right venue in accordance to the ambience and the atmosphere that you are looking for. Be it a family restaurant where you can spend a cozy and relaxed evening or a hip and happening party that will not disappoint, this Guide guide will lead you to the perfect party happening around the K-town.

Samabesi Dinner 207373 Date: 16 April Time: 7.00 pm onwards Entry: Rs.1,499 per person Special Room Package Available at: Rs. 2073

Cloud Zero at the Airport Hotel will be a fantastic family venue to see out the end of the Nepali New Year. With a selection of authentic Nepali cuisines ranging from Himal, Pahad, Upatayka and Terai, this can be a celebration of the year that saw the country unite in more than one way. To complete the Nepali ambience, instrumental Nepali music will be played throughout the night so that everyone can enjoy something more than just the delicious food.

DJ Night @ the Sky Time: 7.00 pm – 2.00 am Venue: Sky Lounge, Hattisar, Kathmandu Contact: 9849552341 Entry: 1000/-

Sky Lounge will be lit up all blue with music by DJ Umesh for Nepali New Year’s. With a comfortable seating area and also a more private room, people can drink and dance till the early hours of the Nepali New Year. With a range of cocktails and mocktails on offer, customers can party to celebrate a new beginning.

Bukeba’s Sufi Night Time: 6.30 pm onwards Venue: Bukeba Organic Village Restaurant, Bakhundole Contact: 015524368, 9841097355

Bukeba Organic Village will be organizing a live Sufi music night so people can relax their way into the Nepali New Year. With one welcome drink, along with a tempting ‘buy two get one free’ offer on the cocktail menu and a 10% discount on the entire bill; customers will be able to enjoy the mouthwatering organic food with chilled cocktails for the entire night. The ambience and the environment of this restaurant is very friendly so that the entire family can enjoy the night together.