CONTENTS

Editorial 2 Ambassador’s Message Embassy of Nepal 3 Mayor’s Message City of Houston 4 Editorial Board NAH President’s Message 5 Advances in Technology Unconventional ..... 7

Editorial Committee: cdl/sg] nfOkm 8 Nirmal Shrestha Choosing Professional Career: SPORTS... 13 Anup Pande Breath Taking House 14 Tara Baral Rupak Rauniar Off-grid rural electification in Nepal: 15 Community Contributor 19 Marketing: Akleesh Memory 20 Madhukar Amatya Dinker Amatya Community Health Center Highlight 21 Paban Shrestha bvMb' hLjg 22

Contacts: Nepalse Student Association 25 Nepalese Association of Houston A creepy Scary...... 28 (NAH) gkfnL] cfdf 28 6776 Southwest Freeway, Suite 450 Houston, Texas 77074 Accomplishments and Milestones of NAH 31 Tel: (713) 773- 4348 NAH Executive Members 33 Fax: (713) 773- 1948 Who is Who 34 Email: [email protected] NAH Activities Glimpse 35 Web: www.houstonnepalese.org A tour of Indian/Nepalese cuisine in Houston 39

Layout Design: xo;6g" gkfnL] ;dfh 41 Kiran Shrestha efjgf=== 42 Kamala Dangol Waters from Heaven 45 SS Media Vision Tel: 977-1-5521266, 5553842 Welcome to Houston ! 47 email: [email protected] kmfxf] /] clezfk xg,} j/bfg xf ] 54 Trekking in Nepal 57 Cover: Mount Ama Dablam/ Kumari 2011 Community Service Project in Kathmandu: 59 Photo courtesy by: InStyle Nepal 63 Dev Dangol Suresh Maharjan lk8f leqsf ] dg 65 Uof:6fO\ l6;{ x?sf\ nflu efhg] tflnsf 66 wtL { === 66 Disclaimer A Story by Gautam Baje 69 The views and opinions, unless otherwise noted, contained herein are those of the authors and do cfdf ltdLnfO { ;Demg ] km;' b{ 5g} 70 not represent the official statements or views neither of the Nepal Vision or Nepalese Association Dashain with the season’s.... 71 of Houston. ;Gb/' aurf+} agfp“ 72 to the overall NAH’s mission. We appreciate and take pride in featuring InStyle, Nepalese Student EditorialEditorial Association, and Waters from EditorialEditorialEditorialEditorial Heaven in our current edition. Please feel free to contact the Dear Readers, shares with us on the advance authors of these article should you decide to be a part of these Namaste ! technology related to oil exploration and extraction. Similarly, Dr. organizations. In our community On behalf of the entire Nepalese Brijesh Mainali offers us with a contributor section, we feature Shri Association of Houston (NAH) and glimpse of challenges and Mukund Hari Gaywali. Similarly, the Nepal Vision 2012 team opportunities on off-grid under who-is-who section, we (Editorial and Marketing electrification in Nepal. A satirical feature Shri Bachcha Tiwari ji. Both Committees), it is my pleasure to read on American Life and Breath of these individuals share present you with the 2012 edition Taking House is refreshing. I am inspirational stories and have of Nepal Vision, the annual sure you would be able to relate exemplified as a community leader publication of our beloved your own experiences in the USA during various Nepali events and organization. The timely with these two stories. A visitor’s programs. publication of the 2012 edition guide, prepared by Vishnu Nepal, This year, NAH will hold its serves yet another instance of provides with many important election for the office of Executive achievement of our community information regarding Houston. For Committee. The current NAH members and leaders who believe those who are visiting Houston, or Executive Members wish best to the and share the motto of “NAH who have recently moved to new team, and remains committed belongs to Everyone!” Houston will especially find the to serve the community in times of This year’s Nepal Vision magazine article useful. Craving for some need. is truly an example of global Nepali food? Akleesh Katel’s (who As the managing editor, I would collaboration and contribution from passed away in 2012 –bless her like to thank everyone who had our friends and well-wishers who soul) field research of Nepali been part of making Nepal Vision have contributed with various restaurants in greater Houston city 2012 publication a success- contents for this 2012 edition. The is equally informative. For poetry including all the members of contributed articles serve as an lovers, the Nepali Vision offers editorial committee and marketing example of the power of Nepali several short poems on various committee, our sponsors and literature, our rich heritage and topics and subject matters that will advertisers, publisher, authors, values that we continue to embrace lighten up your mood. Nepal members of current NAH Executive even while being away from Nepal. Vision is also blessed to receive Board, and lastly a big thank you Like in the past, this year’s Nepal several submissions from our young to our readers. Vision stays true to the tradition of contributors. As you read their providing and instilling Nepali- articles (for example, choosing Jai Nepal ! pana to our readers. By sharing our professional careers or a creepy, ideas and knowledge, we create a scary night), you would be drawn progressive society. Nepal Vision to the imaginative and creative 2012 edition was aimed to serve minds of these young ones who such purpose. seem to have also developed a good writing practice worthy of In the current edition, you will find Rupak Rauniar publication. articles ranging from science and Managing Editor: technology to trekking adventures The current edition also features Nepal Vision in Nepal. In his article related to several local organizations in General Secretary, Petroleum, Dr. Rajendra Shrestha Houston that are aligned in purpose NAH

4 Nepal Vision 2012 Nepal Vision 2012 5 6 Nepal Vision 2012 Nepal Vision 2012 7 8 Nepal Vision 2012 President’s Message

Respected Nepalese and friends in Houston and Well-Wishers around the World, Happy Vijaya Dashami and Deepawali ! On this festive occasion I’d like to wish you and your family good health, happiness and prosperity in your lives.

“We believe: that service to In October of 2010, I had accepted humanity is the best work of the challenge to serve this life.” This is the last line of Junior association as a president with all Chamber International (JCI) creed the energetic board members. You and almost 15 years (1985-1999), are all witnesses for the projects I have recited this in Nepal and program held in these two Jaycees during my involvement in years. I am pleased to announce Jaycees. I believed in this and will NAH is moving forward and we have focused all our programs believe this all my life. driving its agenda in meeting the more in our children: be it fashion overall goals and aspiration of It is a distinct honor to write on show among the children and Nepalese in Houston. It has also this proud publication of Nepalese parents, or dance and song done an excellent job in Association of Houston “Nepal performance, or art competition in Vision”. Nepalese Association of coordinating with all Nepalese Nepal day, or kite making Houston (NAH), I believe, does non-profit organizations and competition in Dashain. bridging the ties between regional not need to be introduced anymore and national organizations. We are also proud to conduct and in the Nepali community in support different programs jointly Houston. I remember back in 1995 On behalf of the NAH board of with our sister organizations in when I first came to Houston, directors, I want to express the Houston: soccer tournaments with there was no organization among excitement of all the landmark Houston Nepali Soccer Team the Nepali community in Houston. activities (please check our NAH (HNST); Bhanu Bhakta Jayanti, I remember how it started: back in activities pages) of our beloved Siddhicharan Jayanti, Sheetkalin 1995, with a small gathering to community. This is a good time to Kabi Gosti and other Nepali literacy host a dinner party in honor of the update you about promises made programs with International Nepali famous Nepali artist Manisha and promises kept! We have Literary Society (INLS) Houston Koirala and singer Udit Narayan worked not only to provide Chapter; Pooja and religious Jha in Dr. Anjali Jain’s residence platform to uphold our culture programs with Pashupatinath at Memorial Drive. It was so hard heritage, but also integrate Temple and Radha Krishna to communicate each other just to ourselves with different Organization; different cultural and gather 30-35 people in that dinner organizations and communities. other programs with Nepalese party. Then, realizing the necessity We were all proud to celebrate the Student Associations (NSA), of an organization, Nepalese first “Nepal Day” in Houston, America Society of Nepales Association of Houston was which was declared by the Mayor Engineers (ASNEngrs), Instyle formed. In the year 2000, of Houston during our fourth NRN Nepal, The Big Mount Group, Nepalese Association of Houston Global Regional Conference 2010 International Artist Forum and (NAH) was formally registered in in Houston. We have celebrated more. the state of Texas with the our main festivals like Bada leadership of Dr. Rajendra Dashain, Teej, Holi, Krishna In addition, NAH organized and Shrestha. NAH has come a long Janmashthami, Maha Sivaratri, participated in different programs: way since then – with exemplary and New Years in our own style. It watch “Super Bowl”, watch “World accomplishments. I would like to is our obligation as well as an Cup”, musical Night with Deepesh thank and acknowledge Immediate opportunity to create examples in Bhattarai, New Year Programs, and Past President, Dr. Rajendra our words and deed that will bring fund raising program for Darshan Shrestha, for his steady hand in pride to us as well as the next Rauniyar etc. leading NAH to success. generation. Keeping this in mind,

Nepal Vision 2012 9 To benefit our community NAH am very much confident that, with in October of this year; I wish all organized panel discussion, talk help from each one of us we can the success to the newly elected program and seminar: “Challenges achieve our dream of establishing committee. Friends, NAH officers and opportunities of being a Nepali the first Nepali Community Center are only the torch bearers, while entrepreneur in Houston, in Houston. there is a whole contingent of photography session, and health members walking under this light. Recognition of outstanding program with IBN SINA are some You are the spirit and motivation contributors is one of the of the main ones to mention. of NAH and this organization has traditions of NAH. In keeping been founded for YOU and YOU NAH is very proud of the way our with this NAH recognized Ms. ONLY! Be a proud “life member” community came together in times Ganga Ligal, Mr. Chez Gurung, of this organization today. Let’s of emergency. NAH has held a Mr. Sanjeev Shrestha, and Dr. make a commitment to provide number of fundraisers to help the Rupak Rauniar for their our support through active humanity and Nepali community significant contribution to the participation and involvement in in Houston and around the world Houston Nepali Community. all of its activities because – at the time of need. NAH collected At this moment, you are leafing “NAH BELONGS TO US!” funds: to help people affected by through the Nepal Vision; a the Japan earthquake and tsunami, Finally, I am very thankful glorious example of teamwork. to organize a funeral for Late towards all of you for trusting me This became possible only with Deepak Dahal, to organize the and giving me the opportunity to the tireless effort and enthusiasm funeral and send body to Nepal of serve this wonderful organization of the editorial committee and the Late Manoj Shrestha, to help as a president. I will take this marketing team, remarkable school project and health project opportunity to thank the executive contribution made by article in Nepal, and to help build members, advisors, committee contributors, the articles children’s playground in Temple. chairpersons, program collectors, and generous support coordinators, friends and my On behalf of Nepalese Association shown by establishments giving family members for their daily of Houston, I would express my their advertisements. Also I would support. sincere thanks to Honorable like to recognize Mr. Kiran Mayor of Houston Ms. Annise Shrestha and Ms. Kamala Dangol Once again, I wish you, your Parker and His Excellency the of SS Media Vision in families, and friends a very happy Ambassador Dr. Shanker Prashad Kathmandu, Nepal for their Dashain and Tihar! May Goddess Sharma for their time to send the wonderful job by laying out the Durga protect us all and Goddess greetings messages in different articles, designing the cover page, Laxmi showers us with blessings, occasions. collecting advertisements in wealth, and prosperity! Nepal, and mailing the Nepal NAH appreciates the continued Jai Nepal and Jai NAH! Vision all around the world. They support and financial assistance have been publishing our Nepal Regards, received from our sponsors, Vision since 2004. Please be kind donors, business experts, local to give all of them a big round of artists and performers in different applause for their commendable programs throughout the year. job, which made this proud Madhukar Amatya One of the main dreams I had, publication of NAH possible. when I stood as a president of this President, NAH deeply appreciates Houston prestigious organization, was to Provider Management and Texas Nepalese Association of Houston build a Nepali Community Center Medical Rehabilitation Center for (NAH) in Houston. In my vision, this allowing us to use the venue for community center for the coming Email: the NAH Meetings, as well as generation will be our pride in [email protected] other programs. In the mean time, bridging our native land Nepal’s Web: www.houstonnepalese.org I would like to thank Sanjeev / rich culture and religious values Facebook page: http:// Linda Shrestha and Niraj / and transforming to this great www.facebook.com/pages/Nepalese- Manarupa Shrestha for hosting nation where we reside. The Association-of-Houston/ our NAH Executive lunch importance of all this will also 215183641845742?ref=hl meetings with delicious food in bring all together under a single their residences. umbrella to fulfill the common goals and objectives of all Nepali As we move forward, NAH is organizations based in Houston. I electing new executive committee

10 Nepal Vision 2012 Advances in Technology aid Production from Unconventional PETROLEUM Resources

- Rajendra K. Shrestha, Ph.D. Recent advances in drilling and source rock that can be made to when they occur subsurface. In the completion technology have been produce naturally generated SAGD process, two horizontal wells able to unlock tremendous potential petroleum. Shale reservoirs are with lateral section of 500 to 1,000 of unconventional petroleum different from the conventional m are drilled at a distance of 5 m resources such as shale gas, shale sandstones or carbonates in that they between the upper and lower wells, oil and oil sand, and open a whole have significantly low permeability the oil sands are heated by injecting new avenue in the oil and gas – the ability to transmit fluids high-temperature, high-pressure industry. The tapping of these through the rock - in the order of steam into the upper well, which resources, which seemed nanoDarcies, although their heats up the bitumen around the insurmountable until a few years occurrence is widespread. well bore causing it to drip into the ago, has been made possible thanks Therefore, production from the lower well as oil, and is produced. to the development in the horizontal unconventional resources invariably drilling, stimulation of the reservoir depends on the induced fracture The advances in breakthrough rock by multi-stage hydraulic system to enhance its permeability drilling and stimulation fracturing, and steam-assisted that can be achieved through technologies have helped gravity drainage (SAGD) hydraulic fracturing. Horizontal exploitation of vast reserves of techniques. Drilling serves to expose unconventional petroleum reserves significantly more rock to the well including shale gas and shale oil in According to the Annual Energy bore than the conventional vertical the past few years, steering the Outlook 2011 of the U.S. Energy drilling, contributing to a nation towards energy independence Information Administration (EIA), substantial increase in production and, most importantly, energy the U.S. shale gas resource potential from these reservoirs. In addition, security. It goes without saying that is estimated at 862 trillion cubic feet the advent of micro-seismic natural gas is an environment- (TCF), which is 34 percent of the technique has provided a tool to friendly clean-burning fuel. domestic natural gas resource base estimate the growth and orientation Furthermore, it is abundant and very of 2,543 TCF. Moreover, this data of the fractures induced by hydraulic affordable at the current trading does not account for the liquid stimulation, thereby affording an price, and has helped create tens of hydrocarbons contained in the indispensable aid to horizontal well thousands of jobs in the U.S.A. For unconventional Eagle Ford Shale, planning. example, the Eagle Ford Shale oil Woodford Shale and Utica Shale and gas production in South Texas that add significant value to these Oil sands have very low API gravity has contributed a $25 billion resources. As reported by Advanced (a measure of viscosity or internal financial impact, created about Resources International Inc., based resistance of a fluid to flow) equal 48,000 full-time jobs with 1700 on a global study conducted for EIA, to or below 10o and contain bitumen wells drilled, in 2011. 32 countries around the world not that is highly viscous, occur at including the U.S. have shale gas shallow depths, and require heating President, American Society of Nepalese resources of 22,016 TCF and to enable them flow. A sophisticated Engineers (ASNEngr), Founding President technically recoverable potential of technique known as "Steam-assisted and IPP, Nepalese Association of Houston 5,760 TCF. A shale resource system Gravity Drainage (SAGD)" is (NAH) is any continuous organic-rich applied to produce oil from oil sands

Nepal Vision 2012 11 lg/; ba' } xG5' . ;fem] ?kdf} eGgkbf' { ukm r6' /] a:g ] , 6xlng ] , 3fd tfKg ] , lztn tfKg] , lagf sf/0f ;fyLefOx?;{ uF lrof lkpg e63f6] ug{] ;do cx F k6Ss } xGg' oxf F . t/ klg cdl/sg] ;do ;fGbles{ rfhfF kf] hfF ] ldnfpg ] xf] eg ] cdl/sL] hLjg ;flRrsF } /dfOnf{ ] 5 . ;'ljwf;DkGg hLjg ofkg , k|b'if0f/lxt jftfj/0f / ljsf;sf] pTsi6tf[ / :j:y vfglkg ;fy } sfdsf] nfOkm oyf]lrt kfl/>ldsn] cd]l/sL hLjgnfO { nfenfUbf] ] agfPsf ] xf ] . kfgL km';{bsf] If0fdf klg slxn]sfxL sfdsf ] ;do xf;] of sfd , g 7Ug , lahnL' ,Uof;F ,vfBfGgh:tf blgs} lg;fl:;Ph:tf ] nfUg ] xfdL gkfnLx?n] ] kfOG5{ , g t 5Ng kfOG5{ . cfkmn' ] pkefUo] a:tsf' ] cefa slxNo } xb'F g} eflu/x] sf] ] cdl/sg] nfOkmsf ] s/f' ug{] rfxfbF df} 6Gg labf lnP/ a:g kfOg] oxf,F g t dxuLnF ] g } lk/fN5] . labf hdsf {] ub5{} ' . klxn ] t gkfndf] hfbfF klg xfOg] . sfddf clN5 nfUof ] xfkm ldnfP/ b]z ljb]z 3'Dg kfpFbfsf] ;fyLefO { / cfkmGtx?n ] dfq } ;fWby] ]] 56' 6L\ lnP/ 3/ hfp F eGg ] ca:yf klg cfgGbdf rflxF cdl/sg] nfOkmsf{ ] :jfb t/ cfhsn t ;;f/e/+ 5l/P/ /xsf] xb'F g} . o;n} ] g } cdl/sfdf] hLjg Ao:t uha } ld7f ] xG5' . ldqhg tyf kl/lrtx?n] nf]slk|o ePsf ] xf ] . gkfnL] nfOkmsf :jfb a;sf] ;fdflhs ;~hfn+ km;a] sdf' e6x] bfF' xfdLdf z?df' t cdl/sL] nfOkm;{ uF o:tf ] ;lawfef' uL] cdl/sL] hLjgsf] ;xh } ;fWg] ] sdg kZg| xf ] –xfp Oh 3nldn' xg' ufx }| k5 { . aflx/af6 xbf] { oyfy { Psfk66L\ 5 eg ] csftkm{] { gkfnL] of]]/]]] cd]]l/sg]]] nfOkm < u''8–'8–eGb'' } oxfsfF ] nfOkm hlt /x/nfUbf ] 5 , NffO{kmsf] Tof] df]xaf6 d'Qm x'g 5f6f] ] pQ/ lbP/ plDslbg ' l;jfo csf{] ef]Ubf Tolt g} sl7g klg . b}lgs g;ls/xsf] ] oyfy { klg xfdf| ] ;fd " 5 . ljsNk klg x'b}g . cd]l/sf cfPsf af/b]lv ;f]x| 306f ;ft} lbg sfd rfla;} } 306f hfuf /xg ] cdl/sL] ?l6g z'?sf jif{x?df t ;f/} ljhL 5 ugx?sf{] ] nfOkm{ ljZjsf ] hg;' s' } sgfdf' nfOkmaf6{ lbSs nfUbf gkfnL] nfOkmsf{ ] cdl/sg] nfOkm eGg ] ul/GYof ] cat a;klg] Ao:t dfq xfOg] si6kb| klg sNkgf dfqn ] klg xfdLnfO { cfglGbt Tof] ca:yf klg /x]g . lsgls xG5' . cdl/sfdf] /xsf] gkfnLx?sf] ] kfl//x]sf] x'G5 . sfdsf] km/s gkfnLx?sf] ] ljblzg] s] d« rf/ kfrF jif{ s/f' ubf { blgs} cf7 306f / kfrF lbg ;dotflnsfn ] ubf { cfkmg } kl/jf/sf otfb]lv lta|?kdf a9\g yfn]kl5 dfq} sfd ug]{ g]kfnLx?sf] ;+Vof ;b:o;Fu xKtfdf Psrf]6L e]6 x'g ci6lnof,]« hfkfg, Sofg8f, anfot,] t'ngfTds?kdf a9L 306f sfd dlZsn' kg {] lttf ] oyfy { xfdL cdl/sfdf] stf/ ,Oh/fPn nufPt ljb]zdf ugx?sf{] ] eGbf w/] } sd 5 . a:g ] gkfnLx?sf] ] 5 . sg' a} nf] cfkm' ;alt/} 5l/P/ /xsf] ldqx? plQs} km;' bdf{ ePklg cfkmgf\ / cfkmgf\ dg Ao:ttfsf ] efiff afln/x] sf] xG5g' \ . sfddf w]/} ;do lbg'k/]kl5 ldNg ] ;fyL ;utLx?F Ao:t eO/xbfF To;f ] t gkfnd] } klg km;' lbnfx?{ sd} 3/kl/jf/df vlrg{ ] ;do lgZro g} PSnfkgn] ] xfdLnfO { 3flr/x] sf] ] xG5' . el6G5g] \ cfhsn . sfdsfhLx?;uF sd xg' ] g } eof ] . labfsf lbgx?df / /fdf| ] nfpg ' , ld7f ] vfgsf' ] ;fy } w/] yf} /] } v/] kmfNg ] To:tf ] oy:6] ;do g } sxfF sfdsf ;do kl5 slxnsfxL] ;dfh as} + AofnG;] ug { ;lsP klg xfdLjLr xG5' / < t/ Ao:ttfsf ] dfqfsf ] 36a9 / ;dbfosf' e63f6] / hd36df lbOg] Ps lsl;dsf ] c;Gtfif] 5fOg{ } /xsf] ] eg ] kSs } xG5' . ;do t emg } Gog" xG5' . Tof ] ;do xG5' . xfdL cfkm } eG5f } oxf F ;lawf' 5 klg a8f ] dlZsnn' ] ldnfpg ' kg {] xG5' . t/ ;v' 5g} . k;f} 5 t/ ;Gtfif] 5g} . sfdsf ] ;dol;t ;Demftf} ug { l;Sg} dxTjk"0f{ ;dosf] Aoj:yfkg ug{ k5 { , ugg{' } k5 { . cdl/sg] nfOkmsf] ;lsPg , hLjg lhpg ;xh agfpg] c? lrhsf ] t s/' } 5f8f +} , dnfO { t dn" dGq g } oxL xf ] . sfd ;fgf ] xf;] dgf/~hgx?k] lt| pbfl;g eO { sfd / oxf F vnf' xfjfdf c3fpGhn] a:g] jf 7nf" ] , ;/sf/L xf;] of kfOe| 6] , 8n/s } dfq kl5 nfUbf hLjg Ao:t / /x/ dfqn} ] klg bz] ;Demfp5F , xl/of

12 Nepal Vision 2012 Nepal Vision 2012 13 14 Nepal Vision 2012 rf/df} lgwSs;{ uF 3Dg' ] rfxgfn ] g ]} bz] ;fyLx?;Fu latfPsf tL /dfO{nf / ;Demfp5F . ;fob w/] } gkfnLnfO] { o:tf] km;' lbnf{ lbgx?sf ] emnemnL ;Demgf nfUbf ] xf ] . To;n} ] t l/6fo8 { nfOkm{ cfp5,,F Tof ] ;Demgfn ] va' ;tfp5F . gkfnd] } latfpg ] xfdL ljbzdf] a:g] nfU5, gkfndf] Toltanf] ;do xfdf| ] w/] sf} ] rfxgf xG5' . azdf lyof ] clxn ] cdl/sfdf] ;don] xfdLnfO { aGbL agfPsf ] 5 . 3fddf al; ;fwF sf] ] cldnf ] vfPsf,] lrof lkpb } klqsf k9sf] ,] rp/df a;L – la6 ' s;L] a/fn, Xo:6g' , 6S;f;] . abd vfPsf,] cfkmg } af/L aurf+} 3d' sf] ,] Email: [email protected] kl/jf/;uF 306f +} 306f ukm u/L a;sf] ,]

Choosing Professional Career: SPORTS vs ACADEMIC Uttam Gyawali1, Sanhuv Joshi1**, Udaya Gyawali1 and Kavin Nepal2* Houston, Texas, **Moore, Oklahoma

Most parents prefer their benefits, it makes your brain sharper who chase their dreams will most children to select a career in the and think better as well. Sports likely never give up and succeed in academic field. Most children of this actually require a lot of strategy and that job. At the most, parents should era, however, want to have their own thought, and so a lot of brain power. allow them to succeed on what they choices and most object to the idea So, sports careers can be taken into want to succeed on, not force them of working in the academic field. serious consideration for your to do another job that they might not Most kids prefer to be in the sports children’s futures. enjoy. Forcing your children toward career to be famous and to do what Children should have their your job choice will more likely they want. For us kids, we do not options open for whichever job they stress them out and contribute want to shatter our parents’ want to do. Parents should toward their bad attitudes in school. expectations and dreams, but at the encourage their children to do what So overall, our conclusion about same time, we do not want to shatter they want even if it is in the sports sports and academics is neutral. our dreams either. Today, we are or careers rather than in the They both teach you something going to say something powerful it academics. Parents tend to decide amazing and interesting. Sports and might change the WORLD – or at that their children should become academics both teach you to use your least our Nepalese community! doctors, lawyers, engineers, mind, body, health, and to become The sports field is equally as businessmen, and other such jobs. a team player. Our other conclusion: challenging and competitive as the The academic field is not bad at all. parents you should let your children academic field. From stereotyping, Some kids actually choose these do what they want even if you don’t people tend to believe that the sports careers, and we encourage those like their choice. Either if it’s a field only requires physical friends! On the other hand, as basketball player or it could be an challenges. Certainly, sports careers mentioned before, if your children academic job like a doctor or an act on a person physically; however do not want to do what you want engineer. Parents, just support your this fact is not a negative and it is them to do, do not oppose their child and tell them to make the right not necessarily entirely true. ideas. Someday you will realize that decision. Thank you. Athletics makes you stronger, and your children will build great work it builds more confidence in ethic and other such skills because [*Authors in order of contribution to yourself. Also, exercise makes your they really enjoy what they the article; 1Grade 5, 2Grade 1.] heart healthier. Alongside all these themselves chose to do. These kids Minor Edition: Ritu Gyawali

Nepal Vision 2012 15 Breath Taking HOUSE - Rachna Rauniar

I always dreamt of having my own that finally I will be seeing the same whole city or perhaps the whole world house. A house so grandeur that house that I have been seeing had such a house. An absolute bliss to would make Taj Mahal look like a whenever i close my eyes, in my look at. I already felt myself to be the shed , royal pillars stronger than that imagination and in my dreams. I proud owner of this grand house. of Pantheon, beautifully carved was excited and happy . stairs made of glass that even I was so happy to see my dream Romans haven’t thought about, I had to go to work but i was house that I didn't think much about glowing color so white that would desperate to see the house. I thought my recent memory laps. My realtor, dazzle anyone’s eyesight, probably few minutes here and there won't late as usual, was nowhere to be the ninth wonder of the world. make much difference. I never use seen, I thought as I have to go back cell phones when I drive but that day to work I will check the house Around 5 months back, when I was different. That day there was a myself. After all, this is the place I ventured onto my quest for this strong urge to text back to my will be living all my life now. I majestic house, every night in my realtor. So I picked up my phone, climbed the stairs, reached near the dreams I saw this beautiful white saw the text and hit the reply button door, read the name plaque; it said color house just the kind i described and started texting "can you arrange WELCOME TO HEAVEN, YOU above, my dream home…... I myself me to see that house right now"? As WILL ALWAYS BE LOVED was surprised at my dreams and I was texting, my car moved from HERE. imagination. Nevertheless I kept my lane to the upcoming traffic lane. having the same image of the house All I remember is the sound of a big It didn't take me much time to every night I went to sleep. But crash and a flash of light and a realize my situation and where I don’t they say, "Shoot for the moon. running engine. actually was and why was I seeing Even if you miss, you'll land among this exact house every night. You the stars". I always think you should When I opened my eyes I was happy might say I was having premonition live in a house that takes your breath to see everything was fine and I was of my own death but actually I was away. not hurt. And what a surprise, I was really seeing the house that I had to standing just outside my dream house. live in. The house that even the One fine day as i was driving to work Yes the same house making Taj Mahal Romans hadn't thought of, the house when my phone rang..It wasn't a call look like a shed, with big royal pillars, that no one had in the entire city, but a text from my realtor. It read - beautifully carved huge stairs made the house that threw me in the air I have something to show you that of glass, glowing color so white that and took my breath away and of will throw you out in the air with would dazzle anyone’s eyesight, course the ninth wonder but NOT happiness. It’s not that I had told probably the ninth wonder of the of the world my realtor about my so called dream world. The hose looked so out of this house but somehow I got the feeling world. I was pretty sure no one in the One thing that still bothers me is did I text while driving because I had to meet my dream house or did I meet my dream house because I was texting. Anyways looking at the brighter side, I m living in the house that took my breath away.

16 Nepal Vision 2012 Off-grid rural electrification in Brijesh Mainali1 PhD Researcher NEPAL: A GLIMPSE Energy and Climate Studies, Royal Institute of Technology, KTH. Sweden.

Access to electricity has been recognized as an important element for the rural development in many developing countries. As per International Energy Agency (world energy outlook report-2010) about 44% of the total population of Nepal has access to electricity covering 90% of the urban areas and 34% of the rural areas. This is a relatively better access rate than compared to the African countries with similar per capita income. Figure 1 shows the rate of electrification in different least developing countries (LDCs) Figure 1. Per capita income and electrification rates in LDCs for year 2008/2009. with respect to the per capita income Source: IEA, 2008; World Bank, 2010 in 2008/2009. The electrification are the current choices in Nepal due are also involved in power rate of Nepal is relatively better than to the provision of government generation and the power generated in most of the LDCs with similar or subsidy under two major programs: by these IPPs is sold to NEA. The slightly higher per capita incomes. Renewable Energy for Rural major part of the power generation The figure also indicates that Livelihood (RERL) previously is from hydropower (2765 GWh) electrification does not come known as Rural Energy and a very little part (9 GWh) is automatically as a result of higher Development Programme (REDP), from thermal plant using fossil fuel. per capita income. The existing and Energy Sector Assistance There is also a huge part of electrification policies and Programme (ESAP). RERL is electricity (about 356 GWh) being programs, and the institutional supported by UNDP and World imported from India. Due to the framework also have a great Bank whereas ESAP is supported by insufficient power generation, Nepal influence over the electrification DANIDA and NORAD. has not been able to meet the market growth rate of a country. growing electricity demand in the On-grid electrification is developed country, and load shedding of more Both on-grid and off-grid solutions by Nepal Electricity Authority than 14 hours a day has been for rural electrification are promoted (NEA), the national utility practiced. The grid line only reaches by government policies in Nepal. accountable for generation, a limited number of urban areas and Off-grid electrification is promoted transmission and distribution of some more accessible village by Alternative Energy Promotion electricity. Community Rural development committees (VDCs). Centre (AEPC), the government Electrification Department (CRED) In fact, out of 3,915 VDCs in Nepal, body formed to promote alternative has been established under NEA to only 2,100 VDCs are connected to energy technologies. Among the perform community based rural the national grid. The contribution various technologies, micro hydro electrification. Moreover, some of off–grid electricity (micro hydro and solar photo voltaic technologies independent power-producers (IPPs) and solar PV) is small but has 1 Corresponding email: [email protected] Nepal Vision 2012 17 increased significantly in the last ten gap between the cost of rural Subsidy in USD/kWh years, and has been instrumental in electrification and its affordability Subisdy support in percentage increasing electricity access in rural by the rural people is very high. SHS (40 Wp) 0.604 areas. The tendency is for increasing Therefore, a funding mix is often 83 per system 0.147 importance for the off-grid needed to cover the cost of rural 0.24 technologies as electrification electrification which is normally Micro Hydro (25 kW) 0.280 reaches poorer areas and composed of community equity or 1736 per kW (Max) 0.032 geographically more isolated private developer investment, 0.11 populations. government subsidies and credit Source: AEPC, 2009; Mainali and from a financing institution. Silveira, 2011. The government of Nepal has given a high priority to rural Equity has become more important This indicates that subsidy support electrification. Since 1998, the pace in the total funding mix while loans in the solar home system is relatively of electrification has increased decreased substantially in the recent higher compared to micro hydro significantly along with the years. Subsidies have been used to technologies. Solar home system introduction of specific support improve affordability and facilitate has been instrumental in expansion institutions, programs and policies. energy access. This provides a of the rural electrification in the Market-oriented policies on positive indication that private rural remote areas. The expansion renewable based off-grid resources (local equity share) are of electrification can be understood technologies have been used as a available and can support rural in different ways when it comes to mechanism to promote rural electrification. Remittances could the increase in electricity coverage. electrification in Nepal. As a result, also be playing an important role in Basically, the expansion can result the renewable energy (RE) based the electrification process, in that an increase in the number of rural electrification market is case, the global financial crisis could households served with electricity expanding. Entrepreneurial forces slow down the pace of rural within electrified communities or in the country have been triggered electrification in Nepal. At the same densification of electricity provision by these energy policies. Along with time, the low importance of loans at the community level which is increased market size, the number in the total funding mix is also a physical or geographical expansion of installation/manufacturing further indication that funding of electricity coverage reaching companies and NGOs working in remains a major challenge if communities that were not the RE sector has been more than electrification is to reach a larger previously electrified. Off-grid rural doubled within last few years, and proportion of the rural poor. The electrification in general, and as they are quite diversified. easy access to credit is necessary for mentioned above solar home the sustainable growth of the rural systems in particular, helped to The consumers of rural electrification sector. Therefore, overcome some of the economic electrification are the poor residents difficulties in getting access to credit constraints of extending long of remote rural areas. These people should be considered as a threshold transmission lines, related to grid occupy the larger bottom section of that needs to be seriously addressed extension, thus speeding up the the economic pyramid and are for speedy rural electrification. The electrification process. This acted as economically vulnerable. Usually, cost of the technologies (considering a breakthrough, needed to achieve people living in urban areas, where its levelized cost) and subsidy higher electrification coverage in the grid exists, only pay for the supports for off-grid rural terms of covering different remote connection charge and the monthly electrification in Nepal are locations in the recent years. fee which depends on their summarized in Table 1. However, the distribution has electricity consumption. People became even more uneven in these living in rural areas often have to Cost and Subsidy per kWh for electrified villages compared to buy and own (either individually or various off-grid technologies in 1991 (before introduction of solar jointly) the electrification equipment Nepal home system in Nepal). This if they want to have electricity. Technologies indicates that the existing markets Therefore, most of these people LCOE in USD/kWh have only been able to attract the cannot afford electricity if they have Subsidy in USD better-off section of the rural to bear the full costs. The financial community, providing opportunities

18 Nepal Vision 2012 Nepal Vision 2012 19 20 Nepal Vision 2012 only in areas where there were low diversifying credit and increasing assistance from donors should focus hanging fruits. There is a real the efficiency of lending and debt on strengthening the credit challenge ahead concerning the recovery. A credit guarantee scheme, opportunities for renewable energy expansion of electrification to cover which provides guarantees to at the local level. Furthermore, all the rural poor. bankers against the loans taken by cumbersome subsidy delivery consumers, could help attract the mechanisms are identified as Currently, access to credit for rural interest of such institutions. To another significant factor affecting electrification is mainly minimize investment risk and the expansion of the renewable concentrated within two state owned increase investment recovery in energy market. A decentralized and banks (Agricultural Development rural areas, the credit operations of more efficient subsidy delivery Bank and Nepal Commercial Bank) large financing institutions could be process could improve access to having extensive networks tied up with local credit institutions. subsidies, ultimately helping to throughout the country, which Increasing the efficiency of lending intensify the electrification process. implies easy access to consumers. is essential before further resources However, the experiences of these can be allocated effectively, in order (This article is based on a research banks with regard to loan recovery to help accelerate the electrification carried out at Energy and Climate and nonperforming assets are not so process. Vigorous funding Studies, Royal Institute of encouraging. Therefore, closer mechanisms could further support Technology, KTH under "Energy attention is deemed necessary to the acceleration in the rural Access" theme. For any further financing of renewable energy. electrification process in Nepal. detail contact author at: Private credit institutions and local Therefore, in the long run, [email protected] ) NGOs could also play a role in government agencies and technical

ommunity Contributor ljut !@ jifb{ lv] 6S;f;sf] ] cWofkgsf ] sfd ug {' ePsf ] lyof ] . Xo:6gdf' ;kl/jf/ a:b} slx] ;do kl5 @)@* ;fndf cfpgePsf' ds' Gb' xl/ 1jfnL zfvf clwst[ :t/sf ] ;/sf/L ds' Gb' xl/ 1jfnL nfdf ] ;do blv] ;dfh;jfdf] hflu/df kj| z] u/L gkfnsf] pkGof;, “d/f] ] bz] gkfn] ” cu;/| /xL cfpgePsf' ] 5 . ljleGg lhNnfdf ;jfu/L,] @)#@ gfds sljtf ;u+ x| / “lxGb' ljqmd ;Djt !((* df uNdL' ;fndf ;f ] kbaf6 :jR5fn] ] ;:s+ ltsf[ ] ;fdfGo Jofaxfl/s lhNnfsf ] lnD3f ufla; j8f g+ /fhLgfdf u/L lal6z| ufvf] { ;lgs} 1fg” gfds k:tsx?' ksflzt| ( df hlGdg ' ePsf &! alifo{ ;jfdf] egf { eO { >L a6flnogsf 5g \ . 1jfnLn ] Xo:6gsf' ] 1jfnLn ] kf/lDes| lzIff cfkmgf\ ;fydf xus+ u,+ ag'| O] ,{ l;ufk+ /' gknLh] c;flzo;g] ckm Xo:6g' lktfaf6 kfKt| ug '{ eO { agf/; dnlzof,] anfot,] kmfsn] 8+} 6fk" -Pg=P=Pr_ sf ] cfktsfnLg ;:s+ t[ ljZjljBfnoaf6 :gfts cflb bzx?df] hflu/sf] sfifsf] ] :yfkgf ugdf{' dxTjk0f" { / lq=lj=lj=af6 :gftsfTt/] l;nl;nfdf 3Dg' ' eof ] . ljbzdf] ;xofu] ug {' ePsf ] lyof ] . jxfn+ ] lzIff k/f' ugeof'{ ] . jxfn+ ] PSn } a:bf, vf;u/L anfotdf] o; ;:yfnfO+ { ;Nnfxsf/sf cfkmgf\ ] cWogsfnd} a:bf, cfkmgf\ ] PSnfkgfnfO] { la;g{ ] ?kdf ofubfg] kof' pb{ } lgDgdfWolds tyf dfWolds xt] n' ] jxfn+ ] nVg] ;?' ug {' eof ] . cfpgePsf' ] 5 . ljBfnodf bO' tLg jifsf{ ] nflu kmn:j?k “ktLIff| ” gfdsf]

Nepal Vision 2012 21 Akleesh Katel (1986 – 2012) In the loving memory of our friend and community leader

She was a beautiful spirit, she was kind, compassionate, and she never yelled or shouted. The universe is lesser for her loss, but this is nature. Although things may happen when we don't want it to, that's the world for you. She will be in a better place now, people who knew her would cherish moments with her. Smiling was second nature to her, every time she entered the room, it was as if the room lit up. Her bright spirit and loving heart deserves more than even heaven. As she looks down on us from above, we know she is smiling. As time goes on, this is a soul that cannot be forgotten. When I first heard she passed away, my thoughts were that this had to be a joke. I expected her to come to my house that day, for that day, was her own birthday. She had died on her very own birthday. As time went on, the realization hit me, the beautiful, loving spirit I once knew was no more. Yet she still leaves a radiant glow in my heart, in all of our hearts. Let this soul rest in peace.

Shreyas Karki (Age 11), Houston - TX

22 Nepal Vision 2012

CommunityCommunity HealthHealth - Anup Pandey Center Highlight

We all know the importance of consultation for $25, and dental 2. Primary Health Care Program: maintaining good health throughout exam and x-ray for $40. These Ibn Sina Community Medical our lives. To say the least, however, services are available not only Center in collaboration with the healthcare in the United States is during normal business hours but Department of State Health Services very expensive in general. Even also in weekends and evenings. offers primary care services for many of us with insurance skip Furthermore, such services are adults aged 19 and over. Families important routine checkups as well provided by experienced physicians with incomes below 150% of the as treatment to diagnosed conditions and specialists. federal poverty level receive free due to this very unfortunate fact. primary care services. Furthermore, we may be The next few paragraphs, as cited experiencing some symptoms yet are from the foundation’s website, 3. Health Care Discount Program: reluctant to see a doctor fearing describe the programs currently Ibn Sina Community Medical potentially high treatment costs. available. Centers offer an innovative and Many of us who work during normal affordable healthcare plan to business hours may also have 1. Healthy Kids Program: individuals, families, employers, difficulty making appointments as This program provides free medical and their employees. This is not an most of the doctors are not available and dental services to individuals insurance plan, but rather a plan during weekends and evenings. under the age of 21 who fall within made possible due to the Most of all, there are many of us 185% of the federal poverty income foundation’s membership to highly with limited income and/or no level and have no Medicaid, CHIP, discounted medical services health insurance at all. However, or other health insurance coverage. programs. In this program, an thanks to Ibn Sina Foundation, such Ibn Sina is a medical home for employer pays $150 per year per factors should not stop us from thousands of uninsured and low- employee, in exchange to doctor’s seeking medical care. income children, who do not qualify visits, lab work, EKG, X-rays, in any other public health insurance diagnostics, specialty, and treatment Ibn Sina Foundation currently programs. Ibn Sina clinics have services at deeply discounted rates. operates several medical and dental seen visits by more than 10,000 This program’s objectives are to facilities in different parts of children with primary care problems screen and identify high risk Houston in addition to one in Port in the last three years. For children individuals with cardiovascular Arthur. Qualifying individuals and with no other avenue to obtain diseases. This health foundation’s families are eligible to enroll in quality health services, the Healthy hope is to help eliminate or various programs that are offered at Kids Program is an excellent significantly reduce these and other very affordable prices if not for free. resource to health care services and heath issues in the local Also one can receive medical medical homes. communities.

Nepal Vision 2012 23 4. Diabetes Prevention and seminars; and outreach education area are not subscribed to this Control Program: campaigns; in local churches, mailing list. Therefore please kindly The South Asian community has a schools, and community-based spread the word about Ibn Sina high prevalence of diabetes. The organizations Foundation to people you know both impact for this group is seven times within and outside the Nepali higher than the white population in Many of us also have parents or community. our service area. The causes are other relatives from Nepal or genetic, lack of physical activity, elsewhere visiting often for an I would like to thank Mr. Drona diet, and stress. A diabetic person extended period. A lot of us may be Gautam, Dental Manager of Ibn can enjoy a healthy life with timely worried about the outrageously high Sina Foundation, for his diagnosis and proper management. expenses should they require any presentation about the organization Failure to properly manage diabetics kind of medical care. Ibn Sina in the NAH meeting of October 24, can result into serious conditions Foundation can be the answer if 2011. I would also like to extend such as heart disease, leg such a situation occurs. my thanks to NAH Secretary Dr. amputation, kidney failure, Rupak Rauniar for providing me the blindness, and stroke. For more information about the opportunity to introduce the organization, please visit http:// organization to our Nepali Ibn Sina’s diabetes prevention and ibnsinafoundation.org/. Many of community and beyond. control program’s goals are to: our fellow Nepalis in the Houston I wish you all a very healthy life. · Identify those with high risk for developing diabetes, and to provide education and promote hLjg ofqf behavioral changes to prevent complications. · Maximize timely diagnosis of – lgdz] IfqL] those with diabetes, and provide education and support to help g;Demfp “ tL If0fx?, tL Ps ;kgf em } alg;s ] . these patients manage their gsfTofp] “ ctLtsf 3fpx?, tL ofb–ofbdf} bla;s' ] . conditions. · Educate health care providers to vKg ' lyof ] hlt bvM,' ;a } Tolxanf] vlk;s ] . promote quality diabetes care in gwsn] dnfO { kml/] Tof ] edl/of' d Hop' bf“ ] nf; alg;s ] . the community. /rsf] tL ;a } ofhgf,] sNkgf dfq } eO;s{ ] . 5. Cardiovascular Screening sfg] '{ lyof ] ;gcf' nf} ] hLjg Tof ] klg cfz–cfzdf} tlt;s' ] . Program: Special laboratory tests commonly slx] u//]] bvfp] g“ ] d/f] ] tL kltAwtf| ;a } x/fO;s{ ] . known as "low cost Lab Package" are /xg] cfkmg } hLjg jzdf, efUosf ] vndf] Tof ] klg kml;;s ] . offered to all community members to screen for cardiovascular diseases sl7g 5 afRg,w“ /] } si7 dn} ] eflu;s] ] . and diabetes mellitus. gkfO { s;sf} ] dfof, 30ffsf[ ] blitn[ ] d 3l/;s] ] . 6. Cancer Prevention Program: vfh] sf] ] lyP s;sf} ] ;fy, t/ gzfsf ] ntdf d kl/;s ] . In collaboration with "The Rose plDsp“ s;/L of ] hfnfaf6] n8g\ ] zlQm dn} ] udfO;s' ] . Breast," Ibn Sina provides free mammograms to low income, xb" g} lsg ;fr] h:tf] ,] qmfwsf] ] cfufdf] d hln;s ] . indigent women. sxf “ x/fP d/f] tL ljZjfz ? zsfsf+ ] d:nf' n] ] of ] tg aln;s ] . 7. Community Outreach Program: u? s ] d ca ? eljio cGwsf/ dn} ] blv;s] ] . Community health outreach workers xg" 5] g} slx] daf6 ca, d/f] ;f/f dgfan] tlt;s' ] . arrange free health fare; galas; Courtesy Big Mount

24 Nepal Vision 2012 Nepal Vision 2012 25 26 Nepal Vision 2012 Student Leadership and Community Engagement- Getting Involved with Nepalese Student Association of Greater Houston

Nepalese diaspora in the greater Membership as of now is open and Nepalese Students Association Houston area is incomplete without free to everyone affilated. However, (NSA) – University of Houston- discussing the significant presence please note that individual Clear Lake (UHCL) was of Nepalese students. Nepalese associations have their own reintroduced in 2009 when seven students show their presence in most membership and fee requirements students realized need for Nepalese higher education institutions in including NAH. The vision of NSA- Students at UHCL to connect and Houston: Rice University, San GH is to educate young leaders the network with each other and Jacinto Community Colleges, obligations and responsibilities of promote Nepali culture by Houston Community Colleges, Lone leadership by introducing them to participating in university Star Colleges, University of Houston various aspects of leaderships such programs. The purpose of NSA is System, Texas A&M, Baylor as scholarship, athletics, campus to enhance communication among College of Medicine etc. I am sure and community engagement, Nepalese students at UHCL, assist the list of educational institution communication, creative and newly arriving Nepalese students goes on and on. Even though performing arts. NSA-GH and NAH transit easily, and to introduce, Nepalese students represent a are making strong effort to reach the promote, and preserve Nepalese significant population of the young, energetic, and emerging culture and traditions through Nepalese community, until last year leaders of our community by taking cultural awareness. The vision of we did not visualize the vibrant one step at a time. NSA-GH is proud NSA is increase partnership with presence of them in our community. to retrospect to the year 2011. The on-campus organization and year has been trademark to both the community organizations to Nepalese Students Association of organizations (NAH and NSA-GH) increase network and collaborate in Greater Houston (NSA-GH) under as student leadership and organizing various cultural the leadership of Nepalese engagement profoundly increased programs that benefit members of Association of Houston (NAH) is over the year. Below are flashbacks NSA and community. In addition, committed to provide support, of events that NSA-GH successful we hope Nepali students from other mentorship, and guidance to our demonstrated in collaboration with colleges and universities will be young leaders. The mission of NSA- its sister associations. inspired build a community of GH is to promote communication among Nepalese students in Houston regarding various student related issues, provide advocacy, and provide a platform for Nepalese students, to network and collaborate with various organizations, to enhance student leadership, and community engagement. NSA-GH is sub-committee of NAH. NSA-GH aims to provide service to all Nepalese students in the greater Houston area regardless of students’ affiliation with any education institution, at any education level, or affiliation to any other groups. Adventure through Himalayan movie night at UHCL

Nepal Vision 2012 27 Nepalese heritage in their educational · Best Booth at Student Organization feedback as well as guidance as we institutions. Expo 2012 (SLO) serve our community. We hope to · Most Spirited Booth at Global grow and live longer under the NSA has proudly participated, Expo 2011 (IISS) leadership and mentorship of organized, and collaborated in · Best Booth at Global Expo 2010 Nepalese Association of Houston following on-campus and (IISS) and University of Houston-Clear community events. · Social Service Event of the Year: Lake. Thank you NAH members for · Members of NSA volunteered two School Supplies Drive 2010 – your support and guidance. th days at 4 NRN Regional 2011 (Student Leadership Conference held in Houston in Banquet) Nepalese Student Association – 2010 · Most Educational Booth at Global UH Main just established this · Performed 3 different dances Expo 2009 (IISS) semester is committed to serve during Cultural Extravaganza There has not been tremendous Nepalese students in their campus 2009 at University of Houston- increase in the number of members and make the presence Nepalese Clear Lake but the diversity of membership has community in their campus. · Organized Dashain Nite 2010 definitely increased. Membership to The Blue-Gurkha established in · Set up booth at Global Expo 2009, NSA is open to all interested 2010, and 2011 and Student Org 2009 is a "professional soccer club" students, faculty, staff and alumni based in Houston. The teamed Expo 2011, and Dia de los of UHCL and community members. Muertos 2011 secured the winner cup in a soccer However, non-UHCL members (i.e. match organized by Nepalese · Collaborated with American community members) should not Society of Nepalese Engineers Association of Houston (NAH) on exceed UHCL members. The the observation of Nepal Day 2011. (ASNEngr) and Computer membership is open to community Association of Nepal (CAN-USA) The Blue Gorkha has more than 70 too however; we are obligated by the members from all over Houston. The in organizing the Joint ASNEngr/ UHCL student organization rule not CAN-USA Conference 2011 organization also executed to exceed members more than Deepawali Blast on October 28, · Collaborated with Nepalese UHCL members within NSA. In Association of Houston (NAH) in 2011, which was attended by large future, NSA hopes to collaborate groups of students and families. If organizing First Nepal Day on with more organizations within May 28, 2011 you are interested to learn more community and within UHCL to about the Blue Gorkha please visit · Collaborated with Indian Students serve the Nepalese diaspora of the Association to organize Dashain www.thebluegorkha.com or like greater Houston. NSA at UHCL their facebook page. and Dandia Nite 2011 would also like to congratulate and · Collaborated with Blue Gurkha welcome our sister organization Lone Star College System has three and Communication and Digital Nepalese Student Association of colleges and LSC- North Harris Media Association at UHCL to UH Main. Please free to provide Campus is the most popular among screen movie Caravan, Adventure through Himalaya, movie screening on February 24, 2012 · In addition, NSA has collected can food to donated to Houston Food Bank, organized School Supplies Drive to donate to Sewa Houston in addition to picnics and graduation celebrations · Similarly, NSA members have regularly volunteered at UHCL and community events Since its re-establishment NSA has secured several awards and recognition for organizing and enthusiastically participating in outstanding programs. In picture: Shiva Sedai, Sunil Kutu, Kabin Shahu, Nirdesh Bahadur Koirala, Anil Paudel, Sangharsh Sid, Bijay Raut, Saroj Shrestha, Suraj Awal and Deepak Rayamajhi ( no order)

28 Nepal Vision 2012 Nepalese Students. According to the qualitative and outstanding resume. NSA-USA: http:// International Advisor at LSC-North In the United States reference is the www.facebook.com/pages/ Harris College, there are about 350- most important aspect of career by Nepalese-Student-Association- 400 students. Similarly, networking you will be able to build USA/300815599945288 Montgomery and Cy-Fair branches relationship with people who can have about 100 students in each. write to personal and quality NSA-UHCL: www.nsauhcl.org, LSC-North Harris has a small recommendation letter or serve as http://www.facebook.com/pages/ Nepali Student Organization, which reference for you. So, we personally Nepalese-Students-Association- is not that active. However, the urge all students to actively get University-of-Houston-Clear-Lake/ organization was able to organize involved on-campus or community 150165125012353 Cultural Program and Concert on events. Many of you may not have NSA-UH Main: http:// September 13, 2009 where great realized that we pay certain portion www.facebook.com/pages/ artists Meera Rana, Deepak of fees for students’ services and Nepalese-Student-Association-UH- Bajracharya, Phiroj Syanden (1974 make sure to utilize all the services Main-Campus/184227585018688 ad), Girish Khatiwada, Bijay you have paid for by involving in Adhikari, Gorkhali G (Girish), and extra curriculum activities. The Blue Gorkha: Bilol Pokheral from Nepal, Dallas www.thebluegorkha.com and Houston performed at the event. NAH and NSA-GH makes synergic http://www.facebook.com/groups/ The performance rocked the cooperation to advocate and support 113231478758540/ Performing Arts Theatre at LSC- student engagement not only for North Harris College. Nepali individual’s advancement but also Contribution to the article: community from Houston and its for community’s advancement. In Prashanti Pandit, Shiva Sedai, neighboring cities were thrilled by future NSA-GH hopes to organize Anup Pandey, and Swasti Gywali. the event put by the Nepali Student student conference and career panel Association at LSC-North Harris. To that benefit students from any watch glimpses from the event go background at undergraduate and to website http://vimeo.com/ graduate level. If you have any idea 6634299 (a courtesy by Rajen feel free to email me at Odarei). We hope such event will be [email protected] or organized again and again in NAH Executive at coming years. [email protected].

Student leadership and involvement Website and Facebook Info: Most of is integral part of education in the these organizations have very active United States. One needs to realize facebook pages. Be sure to like the the importance of involvement in pages to be informed and updated student organizations when you about events on both campuses as apply for scholarships or jobs. well as communities. Involvement in organizations does NSA-GH: http:// not only look good on resume, www.facebook.com/pages/ experience gained from these Nepalese-Students-Association-of- involvements will develop Greater-Houston/ leadership and interpersonal skills. 167311453319874 Especially for those of us who studied in Nepal, we do not have any knowledge on student life and activities on-campus. In addition, getting involved in student activities and community events means broadening your horizon of networks, introducing yourself to diverse groups of people, understanding and acknowledging American and group work ethics, and the most important creating a

Nepal Vision 2012 29 A Creepy Scary Halloween gkfn] cfdf

dfyL 5 lxdfn One night, But not a regular night. A Halloween night, I was trick or lardf 5 kxf8, tn 5 t/fO{ treating with my friends, Aashvi, Lisha Shrestha /fdf| ] nfU5 of ] bz] d/f] ] Amaani and Erica. We went for 3rd grade trick or treat for an hour or so. It gkfn] dnfO{ was so much fun ! When we were “Who is trick or treating at this going to a house, we saw a ghost. middle of the night?” First we thought we were nv;fO8] ePsf ] of ] bz] d/f] ] dreaming but then we pinched We all thought and wondered!! kfv/f] klZrddf ourselves. We still saw the ghost. But it was not somebody. It was We told our parents and showed the same ghost!!! lardf 7dn,] sf7df8fsf+} ] it to them but by that time, the “What do you want from us?” We emdn] blIf0fdf ghost had vanished. said in a shivering voice. Smart ghost!! we thought. I need friends! he said. gkfn] xfdf| ,] gkfn] /fdf| ] It must have a large brain. “Why us?” zfGtLsf ] Ifq] xf] Our parents said we must be “Because you are the only kids in sg' cfvf“ nfUof,] gkfn] kidding but we were not!. At first the neighborhood” we thought of the same too. All cfdfnfO{ “If adults see me they will call a they said was to go to the next police” he said. sg' kf ] sfn xf] house. We again saw the ghost sticking his tongue at us. It seems That was true. They do have a way now the ghost is spying on us. of explaining things differently. So pt } l5g \ cfdf, pt } 5g \ afa' That night me and my friends, we agreed to be friends too. But Aashvi and Amaani had a not for ever. pt } 5g \ kl/jf/ sleepover at my house!! While we zfGtL bpg,] laGtL were watching TV at night, we The next day he invited us to help heard a strange noise... him with his meal. So while we were cooking, he ate all of us, one x ] gkfnL] ;/sf/ . Creek!! Creek!!!! by one. When I woke up, I was scared and sweating all over !!, “What is that noise ??? At this But I was happy that it was just a time of 11:00 at night?” bad! bad !! dream !!! – sn' sfG5f

30 Nepal Vision 2012 Nepal Vision 2012 31 32 Nepal Vision 2012 Accomplishments and Milestones of NAH

It gives me a great pleasure to congratulate our Houston based Nepali community members for their support that NAH has received which has helped in strengthening our Nepali society during the time of needs and celebration of great identity, heritage, and culture. As a community we are much united and stronger now than ever because of the collective experiences we had in being part of various activities and events organized and led by NAH. As friends and family, we came together and lived these moments.

In addition to the NAH regular monthly meeting, here are the highlights of some important moments and accomplishment of NAH in past two years:

DATE ACTIVITIES

Oct-10 Madhukar Amatya announced as the new President of NAH during annual Dashain Celebration Party

Oct-10 New executive committee of NAH formed

Nov-10 Collected school supplies and raised financial donation to support Belinda and Greg Swank school improvement project in Nepal

Dec-10 Arranged funeral and final rites, donation drive and other logistics arrangements for Late Deepak Dahal

Dec-10 Organized Annual NAH family picnic and celebrated Devkota Jayanti at Hermann Park

Dec-10 Contributed and supportedManish Pradhan for his charity work with Lamjung Medical and Dental Camp 2010

Feb-11 Organized “Watch Super Bowl 2011-Nepali Way”

Mar-11 Organized panel discussion on “Challenged and Opportunities of being a Nepali Entrepreneur in Houston”

Apr-11 Nepal New Year 2068 Celebration

Apr-11 Represented Nepal at World Cultures Summit 2011 organized by World Council Affairs-Houston

May-11 Arranged funeral and final rites, donation drive and other logistics arrangements for Late Manoj Shrestha

May-11 First Houston Soccer Tournament

May-11 First Nepal Day Celebration at University of Houston-Clear Lake with Children Art Competition and Cultural Program

Nepal Vision 2012 33 Jul-11 Financial support and involvement with the ASNEngr/CAN-USA in organizing Annual Conference held at University of Houston-Clear Lake

Aug-11 Annual Teej Festival celebration

Sep-11 Meet and greet program of Darshan Rauniyar

Oct-11 Bada Dashain 2068 Celebration (Children kite competition, culture program, and DJ night)

Oct-11 Organized talk program of Drona Gautam from Ibn Sina Foundation on “Community Health Service Facilities for Low Income Family”

Nov-11 Organized a day-long workshop with Nichal Panthi and Sailesh Sigdel on “Photography using Digital SLR Cmaera”

Dec-11 Provided Financial and non-financial support to Belinda Swank and Greg Swank of Water from Heaven and Manish Pradhan for their School Improvement Project in Kathmandu, Nepal

Jan-12 Organized Nepali feature film “Khagras” in collaboration with Madhav Ghimire

Apr-12 Joint Nepal New Year 2069 and Second Nepal Day Celebration

May-12 2012 NAH Election process Initiated

Jun-12 Assisted and worked with 2012 ANA Convention-Dallas team, Houston represented in Literary, Arts, Soccer, Cricket, and Basketball during the convention

During all this time, NAH has worked with various organizations to make the above and other non-NAH events a success. We would like to recognized the following organizations and their officials, without whose support, well-wishes, and contributions, we would not have been as successful in serving our community.

1. Shri Pashupatinath Temple of Houston Committee 2. International Nepali Literary Society (INLS)- Houston Chapter 3. Nepalese Student Association of Greater Houston (NSA-GH) 4. Houston Nepali Soccer Team Association 5. Nepalese Basketball Association of Houston 6. InStyle Nepal 7. The Big Mount Group 8. Waters from Heaven

NAH strives to serve the social, cultural, communal and intellectual needs of the Nepalese residing in the Houston area. NAH counts on the support it receives from its members. Let us take pride in who we are. NAH belongs to all of us collectively.

- Rupak Rauniar General Secretary July, 2012

34 Nepal Vision 2012 NEPALESE ASSOCIATION OF HOUSTON (NAH) Executive Board and Advisors (2010-2012)

President Madhukar G Amatya 832-704-6363 [email protected]

Immediate Past President Vice President Vice President Secretary Dr. Rajendra K. shrestha Gyanswor Jyoti K Ghimirey Dr. Rupak Rauniar 281-376-6382 Shrestha 281-208-9625 713-436-3677 [email protected] 832-816-6448 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Asst. Secretary Treasurer Asst.Treasurer Executive Member Nirmal Shrestha Sanjeev Shrestha Babita Maskey Shrestha Niraj Shrtestha 713-436-3677 832-244-8343 281-494-7843 281-558-6240 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Nepal Vision 2012 35 Executive Member Executive Member Executive Member Executive Member Vishnu Nepal Pabitra Shrestha Sameer Rawal Chej Gurung 832-466-4178 832-296-3380 281-409-2861 832-526-8750 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Executive Member Advisor Advisor Advisor Subash Simkhada Dinker Amatya Tara Baral Binod Shrestha 832-766-2216 832-922-0777 832-260-3545 281-494-7843 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Who’sWho Bachcha Tiwari, from Simra 8, research officer in the department Sarlahi, Nepal came to Houston of Forest Research and Survey in as a permanent resident in 2008. Kathmandu Nepal. He also has 10 He graduated from University of years prior experience as a Peshawar, Pakistan and achieved contractor. He is a member of Bachcha Tiwari a Bachelor degree of science in MDRT (Million Dollar Round Forestry. He is currently in Life Table) in USA. insurance business as a licensed life insurance agent in New York Bachcha is married to Madhu social and community services/ Life Insurance Company. He has Tiwari and has a son and daughter, activities and helping friends & over 14 years experience in life Nikhil and Ruchi. In his rare free community associations. He is insurance business. He has also time he likes to be with his family multi-lingual: Nepali, Hindi, worked as a successful forest and friends. He enjoys engaging in Urdu, Maithili and English.

36 Nepal Vision 2012 Nepal Vision 2012 37 38 Nepal Vision 2012 Nepal Vision 2012 39 40 Nepal Vision 2012 Need a Little kick for your taste buds? A TOUR OF INDIAN/NEPALESE CUISINE IN HOUSTON.

By late Akleesh Katel

So are we up for some Nepalese food The bowed-tied staffs are polite, Chicken tikka masala and palak in Houston? If that’s what you have attentive and speedy; never will your paneer. Both orders came with planned, you are in luck. Unlike water glasses go empty. The menu Pulao, Naan and Salad. The right many other big cities in the US, reflects the authentic Indian/ amount of creaminess in Chicken Houston is blessed to have some Nepalese cuisine. The vast choices tikka masala, perfect blend of spices good Nepalese restaurant to serve of mouth-watering appetizers such in palak paneer, the rich aroma of your palate. as onion bhaji, Gourmet Kababs basmati rice, the perfectly puffed Aashiana served with various chutneys will naan and the layers of flavors in instantly awaken your taste buds. If each dish made this choice a sure " Indian Restaurant you are like me who cannot handle must-order" for me for everytime I As soon as you walk in, you will the spicy food, you can request to visit Aashiana. Fully satiated by notice the nicely decorated dining make it much milder to your taste. now, I could find only room for one area with white table linens and For main course meal, there is ample dessert among ten that were listed chair covers, sharply dressed vegetarian and non-vegetarian on the menu. I tried Ras Malai, a servers, the soothing melodies and choices to appease your palate. With soft homemade cheese in a saffron needless to mention the smell of the such a variety of choices, I had a creamy sauce, which was a heaven authentic aromatic Indian spices difficult time picking the one I for my sweet tooth. that sure is going to make your wanted to order and with the help There is also wide selection of wine mouth water. of the server’s advice I ordered to accompany any meal from lamb chops to salmon patties, and also beer including Indian beer, Kingfisher. Aashiana also serves lunch buffet offering generous selections of lamb, chicken, seafood and vegetarian options. Lunch buffet is from 11:00 am to 2:00 Pm; weekend brunch is from 11:30am- 2:30pm and costs $13.95/person. Entrees range from $12- $26 and soup/salad, appetizers, and desserts range from $ 4- $12. Aashiana also provides banquet and catering service. Aashiana has been voted "Top choice for Indian food" by the 2004 Zagat survey. It is

Nepal Vision 2012 41 Everest Kitchen is set to open for business starting March 3, 2012. Please be sure to give this place a try and help us spread the word! Contact information Everest Kitchen-Cuisine of India 376 FM 1960 RD W Houston,TX 77090 (281-587 0714)

Cuisine of India- Clearlake Phenomenal food, excellent service, a charming elegance are only very known for its romantic and cozy of delicious vegetarian and non- few things that comes in mind when ambience and its exotic flavorful vegetarian choices. speaking of this hidden gem in The dishes. The intangible element of being Clearlake area. Contact information: personable is something I find The menu is immensely appealing, Aashiana Indian Restaurant lacking in many restaurants but and its range is a part of the appeal. 12610 Briar Forest Road Tandoori Garden has this all intact The conservative dinner could start Houston, TX 77077 along with the reasonable priced a meal with crispy pakoras, delicious menu which will make you want to Phone: 281-679-5555 parathas or mouth-watering go for more!! Nepalese chili BBQ chicken. Others might be more enticed by brilliantly Tandoori Garden- Contact information Tandoori Garden: Indian &Nepali composed Momo (steamed Indian and Nepali Cuisine Cuisine dumpling), one of the favorite dishes 2002 Fry Road that originated from the Tibetan Houston,TX 77084 Himalayas. (281)579-7778 The enticing and affordable menu has only one downside for me in this And now, something for The restaurant and that is- Chronic over- Northern Houstonians- ordering. The entrée line-up ($9.00- The busy commercial area of FM $18.00) is filled with the usual 1960 has been well received for its suspects- pakora, samosa The point of good food doesn’t have wide range of sit-down restaurants accompanied with aromatic sauces. to be drastically expensive and this to authentic Dhabbas (truck-stops), I come here whenever I miss my place does just that. Average price and now Everest Kitchen, a new mother’s food, and this place comes for Appetizers are $ 5.00, entrees authentic Nepali restaurant joins pretty close to my mother’s aloo- range from $10-$15, and desserts this competitive market. bodi-taama (black eyed peas), are around $3.00. khashi ko maasu (goat meat), and The new management boasts to This place is ideally located on Fry jhaaneko daal (lentil soup). A perfect come back with extensive Nepali Rd in Katy area. The cozy home-like blend of simplicity with and Indian dishes as well as more atmosphere, warm greetings from sophistication makes this place a exotic alcoholic beverages such as owners, authentic and delicious prominent choice for lunch buffet, Jhyaun-kute (home-brewed food, and extremely fair prices are casual dinner or that night out with alcohol). If you are looking for a few reasons why Tandoori Garden your special someone. place that offers tradition Nepali is on my "go-on-the-fly" restaurants. dishes such as khashi ko andra/ Contact Information: Whether you are in mood for some bhundi, local kukhura- this place is 1212 Nasa Pkwy Indian taste or authentic Nepali taste, for you!! If you are like me who Houston, TX 77058 this place has it all covered. Choela could never get enough of Nanglo’s (281) 333-4343 ( Herb-marinated chicken) that I tried chicken chili- then be sure to order was excellent; was spicy to my taste. chicken chili, which tastes just as Lunch buffet offers an extensive array good as Nanglo’s if not better.

42 Nepal Vision 2012 Xo:6g' gkfnL] ;dfh

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Roshan Wagle Moorhead, Minnestoa

44 Nepal Vision 2012 Nepal Vision 2012 45 46 Nepal Vision 2012 ATERS from W EAVEN -Belinda Swank where there is color, Hthere is hope

Waters From Heaven is an completion of a second classroom. provide a safe environment for the organization that had been started This room will be used by the children to study. Fundraising by my husband and me lower grades as they were studying towards the renovation of the approximately one year ago. Our outside, and had no classroom remaining classrooms will be dream has been to provide a safe room they could use. With the continued this year. educational environment for the assistance of the Alumni students children of Nepal, inspiring them of Bhakta Vidyashram, we had We have also been working on to dream through art and reading raised and additional Rs 200 000 providing school supplies programs. at a fundraising event in throughout the year for the Kathmandu this year before I children as many of the parents Our main mission this year has returned to Houston. A committee are not in the financial position to been to start the renovations at had been established for this supply these much needed items. I Bhakta Vidyashram. This building purpose and these funds will be wanted to thank everybody that had been declared unsafe by the used towards the renovation of the has donated thus far to these Engineers and they informed us top floor of the school building. projects and assisted us to make that within another year the This work is scheduled to this happen. There are so many structure would become a serious commence shortly. individuals that have contributed, danger. It was stated that it could but I would like to make special possible collapse as there was no The new science lab will be a first mention of Manish Pradhan on structural support as it was for the school; and they were behalf of NAH , Alice Park, Mr. eroding. During my two month supplied with completely new and Mrs. Shaik, the Alumni trip this year we had renovated equipment for Biology, Science students of Bhakta Vidyashram as one of the classrooms that now and Physics. Nearly none of the well as the Alumni Association of serves as a reading room and available equipment the school science lab. The reading room had could be used for practical lessons been supplied with over 600 books and they had no teaching that we had collected throughout materials available. Thanks to the the year. This is the first time that efforts of donors the children will the children have access to be able to have visual and English books at the school. These practical education at the school. books were dropped off a few at a The new reading room has been time in Kathmandu by travelers painted in orange and murals will who were willing to donate space be painted soon by volunteers. in their luggage. We are still in the This is the first color that has been process of collecting books for the added to the school and the two reading room. new rooms also include the first windows and doors. Our hope is to Renovation is also currently complete renovations of all the underway for the renovation and classrooms by next year and to

Nepal Vision 2012 47 imagination through color and art. projects with the children. I know The trip was a huge success and now that it is important for us to plans are underway for a second include training in the next trip, trip later in the year. Currently I as that way the teachers can am working on finding sponsors promote art in the classrooms. that would be willing to be a part of this project. We all can make a difference as we do not need to have huge amounts Our slogan is, “Where there is of money, lots of contacts or even Renovated Class room at Vidya Ashram color there is hope.” Bringing speak the language. All we need is color into the schools has been our a passion for doing what we dream from the beginning. I believe in, even if it feels as if all believe that when children start the doors are closing. Just keep dreaming in colors, imaginations knocking as somebody would open are developed and hope becomes a that door one day. Please follow reality. While on the Art on the our blog on Road trip, we walked by so many watersfromheaven.blogspot.com children sitting on a heap of stone, and help us spread color around. I breaking them up as their daily wanted to thank everybody that job. For these children there were has helped make all this possible, New Science Lab no school, and they were covered as I always say,”Where there is a in dust and dirt. The only thing I will there is a way.” had with me that I could share as we walked along were sheets of Lastly, we thank the support from stickers, round colorful ones. They Nepalese Association of Houston did not know stickers, but called it and many community members for Tikka when I would reach out to their generous support and them. The smiles that lit up from involvement in our project. them when putting such a small Together we can make this world a dot of color on their hand or better place to live in –for all. Reading Room cheek, it is moments I will never forget. Siddhartha Vanasthali for all their fundraising efforts towards this Color is the one connecting thing project. we can share; it is such a simple joy that needs no language or On January 8, in collaboration explanation. The one thing that with COMMITTED and three teachers in the rural areas other volunteers, we had left on an requested was training so that they Art on the Road trip to the could continue to do similar art Sindhupalchowk district. Our mission had been to introduce art to the children of these rural areas. Many of the children had never had the opportunity to do any form of art. We had worked with over 700 children and visited 4 schools over a 9 day period. We collected art supplies throughout the year that had been donated by locals and tourists and dropped off in Kathmandu.

Our dream is to allow children the opportunity to develop their NAH President honoring Belinda Swank with Letter of Appreciation.

48 Nepal Vision 2012 WelcomeWelcome toto HOUSTONHOUSTON AA visitor’svisitor’s guideguide

Down Town Houston if you plan to stay here for longer 6.08 million. There are several Houston maa swagat cha ! period. cities within the metropolitan area; City of Houston being the Planning to visit Houston? Moving 1. Greater Houston largest one. Other cities include to Houston? Fear not, Houston is a Greater Houston comprises of 10 Missouri and Sugarland in the safe and welcoming city for visitors. counties and is located along the west, Katy in Northwest, Pearland It is the fourth largest city in the gulf coast region. Greater Houston in South, and Clearlake & country, and a growing metropolitan has a population of Friendswood in Southeast , cosmopolitan. Sitting on the shore of Gulf coast, world capital of energy, and a world class provider of health care facilities, Houston is truly a cosmopolitan city with plenty of economic, touristic and pleasure and educational opportunities. With an unofficial estimate of over 10,000 Nepalese residing in Greater Houston area, hundreds and thousands of south Asians have established services and facilities that make Houston a very hospitable city for Nepalese. In addition, cost of living in Houston area is relatively lower than several other cities in the US. Moreover, importantly, Houston is cooler than many people think. Here is a what you may find useful for your next trip to the Houston or

Nepal Vision 2012 49 Kingswood and Woodland in minutes and the drive from Hobby 8825 Tidwell Road, Houston, TX North. Major highways include 1 Airport takes about 25 minute to (512) 424-2600 city loop – 610 (ring road), IH 59 get to downtown Houston. Some 5420 Decker Drive, Baytown, TX running north and southwest, I-10 common taxicabs are: (281) 424-3669 running east west, I-45 running  Yellow Cab (713-236-1111) 111 Tristar Drive, Webster, TX north south; Toll roads within the  Fiesta Cab Company (281) 486-8242 city and connecting suburbs – (713-225-2666) hardy toll, Sam Houston (Betlway  Liberty Cab Company 2600 South Loop West #475M, Houston, 8-another ring road). (713-695-6700) TX, (713) 820-0320  United Cab Company 4. Where to go for shopping 2. Getting around Houston (713-699-0000) Getting to and from the Airport: groceries / food of Asian taste? Metro (Bus System): Houston being a multicultural city, There are two major airports in In Houston, there is a Metro bus there are various places where you Houston area (George Bush system. Travel may take longer but can buy needed foods and Intercontinental Airport-IAH and it’s relatively cheap. You can plan groceries. Below you will find a Hobby Airport-HOU) and both your trip using trip planner using list of groceries and addresses, have state of the art facilities. metro website (http:// where you can purchase foods of Asian taste. Super Shuttle: www.ridemetro.org). Holiday and You will usually find their counter weekend schedules are slightly 3500-6500 Hillcroft Avenue. right at the point where you come different from usual ones. You can In this block, there are several Indian buy a Q card if you frequently use groceries, where you can purchase out after baggage claim. (http:// Pulses, Rice, spices and other regular www.supershuttle.com/). Upon the metro bus otherwise you need foods of Indian origin. arrival, look for the Super Shuttle to have exact change in cash. You KGF World Food Warehouse Inc desk in the baggage claim area. may pay fare when you get on any bus (there is a slot machine by the 14625 Beechnut Street, Houston, TX Book your ride to your (281) 988-4566 accommodation before coming to driver). Savoy Food Market the US or before coming to 11246 S Wilcrest Dr # 145, Houston, TX 3. Where to go for Driver License (281) 568-6772 Houston. You can also book your There are several locations in ride at their counter at the airport. Houston area where you can go to Rani’s World Foods Estimated cost is $30 to $40, and 12811 Duncan Road, Houston, TX get a driver license. Driving is a (281) 440-8080 the Super Shuttle van will take very essential skill if you want to you to the location you indicate in live in Houston area. Below is a Taj Mahal Imports the reservation. 13833 Breck Street, Houston, TX list of some of the locations. (281) 440-4444 Car rentals: 10503 Grant Road, Houston, TX East West Food Store You may rent a car from the (281) 890-5440 10710 Fm 1960 Rd, Houston, TX airport, either online in advance or (281) 955-7693 1601 Townhurst Drive, Houston, TX on the spot. Shuttles will take you (713) 465-8462 Najma Indian Pakistani Grocery from the airport to the car rental 12220 South Gessner Drive, Houston, 12090 Veterans Memorial Drive, company car lots. Some examples TX (713) 219-4100 Houston, TX of car rental companies: 15403 Vantage Parkway East, Houston, Al Huda Enterprise, Budget, Thrifty, Fox TX (281) 449-2685 12090 Veterans Memorial Drive, etc. You can compare prices Houston, TX (281) 444-8120 among companies using 9206 Winkler Drive, Houston, TX (713) 943-0631 priceline.com, kayak.com, etc. Kapil India Mart 9803 Spring Cypress Road, Houston, TX Taxicabs: (281) 205-0658 Taxicabs are little bit pricier than Quick N Ezee Indian Food the shuttles. Heavy luggage may 9110 Jones Road, Houston, TX incur additional charges. Taxi (832) 688-8450 drivers are usually tipped (This is Chinese Foods about 15% of the fare). The drive Between South Gessner and Belt way 8 from Bush Intercontinental on Bellaire, there is a big China town, where you can get varieties of food Airport (IAH) takes about 45 items.

50 Nepal Vision 2012 Nepal Vision 2012 51 52 Nepal Vision 2012 Fiesta Mart is a chain grocery in Texas,  Alvin Bayou Wildlife-take a Mease Community Hospital which offers huge variety of international tour of the wildlife park and get to provides rehabilitative and food items. feed the animals (ostriches, specialty services to those Kroger, Target, Walmart are also chain llamas, camels, giraffes & others) requiring extended or specialized grocery stores and offer varieties of food care, including stroke and and household items. 7. Where to go to find more traumatic brain injury patients. information on Schools? 5. Things to Do in Houston Both hospitals are staffed by Houston Independent School physician faculty and residents of Houston offers various recreational District (HISD) is largest school and educational opportunities, Baylor College of Medicine. district of Texas with more than Lyndon B. Johnson General some of which are free of cost and 279 schools and more than 203, others require some fees/ cost. Hospital is known for its neonatal 000 students. Majority of City of intensive care services and Level Fees applied: Houston is served by HISD. Check III trauma center, and serves as  Houston Zoo www.houstonisd.org for locations, one of the few full-service  Rodeo Houston (including enrollment requirements and hospitals in the northeast area of Concerts; only in Feb-March further information. There are the city. Physician faculty and of each year) other school district options residents with UTHealth oversee  Houston Rockets (Basketball around city of Houston depending the provision of medical care to team of Houston) on the city / county boundaries you patients at LBJ General Hospital.  NASA are in.  Aquarium at Downtown Harris county Community 8. Hospitals Health Centers (although a bit small) Houston has world-renowned  Froberg’s Farm: Strawberry The Harris County Hospital Texas Medical Center near the District offers primary and select and other fruits picking http:// downtown Houston, which houses www.frobergsfarm.com specialty care through its network several hospitals and health of 14 area health centers. Thomas Free: providers. Other than this, there Street Health Center specializes in  Houston Zoo on Holidays (or are several public hospitals and the care and management of HIV/ the first weekend every month clinics run by city and counties. A AIDS, offering leading-edge with Bank of America card) brief description of those health research and medical treatment  Miller Outdoor Theater facilities is provided below; alternatives to patients who are  Museums (Fine Art, every Public Hospitals HIV-positive. The Riverside Thursday; Natural Science, The Harris County Hospital Dialysis Center provides every Tuesday after 2pm) District offers specialty and acute outpatient dialysis treatment to  Memorial Park, Hermann Park care at three hospitals. Two of the patients in a comfortable and hospitals, Ben Taub General patient-oriented environment. 6. Things to do in Texas Adult dental care is offered at the If you want to take a day off and Hospital and Quentin Mease Community Hospital, are located Dental Center as well as at some want to have some fun stuff in of the community health centers. your life, there are plenty of in the Texas Medical Center, with opportunities in the state of Texas, its third hospital, Lyndon B. mostly with a driving range of 4 Johnson General Hospital, situated hours. Some examples include: in the northeast quadrant of  River walk in San Antonio Houston.  Sea world in San Antonio Ben Taub General Hospital is  Galveston Island and Corpus home to the Ginni and Christi - Go Fishing, Crab Richard Mithoff Trauma Center, a Catching, Beach, Restaurants, world renown Level I trauma Sight Seeing center. Ben Taub Hospital has also  Kemah Broad walk - Enjoy earned The Joint Commission’s walking along the pier Gold Seal of Approval as an  Brazos Bend Park - The Advanced Primary Stroke Center, Primary healthcare services are Alligator Park the highest certification given to also offered at the school-based  Six Flags - Arlington and San hospitals for their comprehensive clinics. Located in elementary and Antonio stroke care program. Quentin middle schools, the school-based

Nepal Vision 2012 53 clinics provide care to children 9. Places of worships and their families all year long. Again, Houston being a multi- cultural city, there are several places of worships that various City of Houston Health Centers cultural/ religious groups belong for Preventive Care to. Some of the Hindu temples / places of worships are listed below.

Shree Swaminarayan Temple 1150 Brand LaneStafford, TX 77477 Shri Radha Krishna Temple 11625 Beechnut Street, Houston, TX (281) 933-8100

 Immunizations for adults and Shirdi Sai Baba Temple foreign travel are available at 8000 5601 Hillcroft Street, Houston, TX North Stadium Drive, Hare Krishna Dham 832.393.5427 (Zip Code 77054) 1320 West 34th Street, Houston, TX (713) 686-4482  La Nueva Casa De Amigos Health Center, (Family Planning, Immunizations, WIC), 1809 North Main, 713.547.8000 (Zip Code 77009)  Magnolia Health Center (Dental Services and WIC only), 7037 Capitol, 713.928.9578 (Zip Code 77011) Houston Durga Bari Society Shree Krishna Pranami Mandir  Northside Health Center (STD, 13944 Schiller Road, Houston, TX 1. Acres Of Houston TB, Family Planning, (832) 423-8541 2. Aldin Shree Pashupatinath Mandir Of Immunizations, WIC), 8504 Houston 3. Bayto Schuller, 713.696.5900 (Zip Code 14302 FM 762 (Google Whaley 4. Casa 77093) Long Point Rd.), Richmond, Texas 5. E.A. S 77469  Sharpstown Health Services 281-545-9038 6. El Fr an (STD, Dental and WIC), 6201 Bonhomme, 713.780.5600 (Zip 10. Cost of Living index Code 77036) Houston is one of the best affordable place to live. The cost of  Sunnyside Health Center living index is relatively lower for (STD, TB, Family Planning, Sri Meenakshi Devasthanam Houston area compared with Immunizations, WIC) 9314 17130 McLean Road, Pearland, several other cities. Below is TX (281) 489-0358 Cullen, 713.732.5000 (Zip Code comparison of cost of living among 77051) key cities of US. 11. Universities/ Colleges There are several well-known colleges and Universities in Houston area.

1. University of Houston-Downtown, 1 Main St, Houston, TX 77002-1014

2. South Texas College of Law, 1303 San Jacinto Street, Houston, TX 77002

54 Nepal Vision 2012 3. Texas Southern University, 3100 Cleburne Street, Houston, TX 77004- 4597

4. Rice University, 6100 Main Street Houston, TX 77005

5. Houston Community College, 3100 Main Street, Houston, TX 77002

6. University of Houston, 4800 Calhoun Road, Houston, Texas 77004

7. University Texas, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX 77030

12. Housing options

There are plenty of suburbs to choose from for housing purpose. Houses are very affordable compared to other cities. For apartments, you may check various apartment locators’ websites including http:// www.apartmentguide.com. If you have children, you may consider schools for your children while looking for housing option. Many students prefer locations close to Universities and colleges and housing facilities within Universities.

Compiled by: Vishnu Nepal, Houston, TX, Email: [email protected]

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56 Nepal Vision 2012 Nepal Vision 2012 57 58 Nepal Vision 2012 Trekking in NEPAL

- Ali Hegler

I was looking forward to see everything first hand.

I contacted our Sherpa guide a year in advice via Facebook. He was highly recommended by a friend of ours, Mr. Paul DeShazo with International Charities Inc., who had trekked twice in this region. Mr. DeShazo is part of a world organization that assist indigenous people with some basic needs. He has been to Nepal several times and is the one through whom we contacted the fabulous Mr. Ang Dawa Sherpa of the Himalayan Nirvana trekking P.Ltd.

Dawa-ji exceeded our expectations. He catered with excellence to our every need in and out of the mountains. Due to his high level of mountaineering expertise, he made us only have to worry about simple things such as where could we take the best pictures to bring back home. Dawa-ji was waiting for us at For the ones that love mountains, Hello, my name is Ali Samaniego Kathmandu airport, a place where to be among the range of the Hegler. I am the Mexican of the tourist should be aware of the many Himalayas is one of the greatest group, my husband Russell Hegler, opportunistic ‘helpers’ that will try experiences that they can have in is the Canadian and his lifelong to get advantage of first time their lives. And for us, a small group friend, Marco Wigny, is from the visitors. formed by a Mexican, Canadian and Netherlands. All of us are in our a Dutchman, this was not an early forties. We have resided in We headed to the Thamel area where exception either. We have been Houston, Texas for many years now. our hotel and first great meal captivated by the magic of Nepal, its awaited for us. Next day, we had a people and its rich culture for a long I am not unfamiliar with Nepal, its tour of the beautiful Kathmandu city time. The goal like many others who culture, language, religions. One of and surrounding areas like Patan’s have been enchanted by its mountain my best dearest friends is from and Bhaktapur’s main cultural and nature, was to reach the famous Kathmandu and had spent time attractions. The next day, we set out Everest Base Camp and meet mother educating me and telling me stories to start the quest on trying to get into mountain up-close and personal. of Nepal and its beauty for long time. the Sherpa’s mountain region by

Nepal Vision 2012 59 with multicultural flags displayed on but many of them are very rough their backpacks and many languages with animals for no reason -a from all around the globe could be contrast that many tourists like me heard along the holy path that goes find disturbing and contradicting to the Everest. Some trekkers were with Buddhist ideology. But again just visiting monasteries, some were we were just guests and spectators attempting to summit other in a foreign country. There were mountains like the magnificent Ama others that showed some kindness Dablam, Everest herself, or like us to the animals that do all the hard attempting to get as far as to the base work to my soul’s relief. camp and summit Kala Pathar. After 11 days of walking and The trek to Everest is very well visiting the several rest stops, we marked and easy to follow, with made it to our destiny! Everest Base several tea houses and lodges along Camp! Walking along the Khumbu the way where one can rest and eat. glacier and humbled by the The local food is simple but tasty enormous mountains everywhere flying in to this little mountain town. (try the garlic soup, yummie!), and you look, magnificent, magical, However, because of its location in you can find basic needs like toilet worthy experience. But as weather the high attitude, flying to Lukla is paper and bottle water and the was moving in, we started moving highly dependent on the right occasional Snickers bar all the way back down the trail, this time on a weather conditions. Lukla airport up. Helicopters are a common sight different route in which we would has been featured by the National as they rescue people who are mostly encounter a monastery that held Yeti Geographic Society for having the affected by altitude sickness. So remains, we could see up close and commercial airport in the highest please take altitude adjustment days personal! altitude in the world. At the airport and drink plenty of water (Pani). in Kathmandu, we met several Pani, Pani and more Pani!!!! Hydration Back in Lukla the wait to get back people from other international is the key to altitude acclimatization to modern civilization was only one groups that had been waiting in the and our guide made sure we were super night so we got lucky with flights airport for past 3 to 5 days for a hydrated and at the lodges we drank and weather. It was a quick flight chance to fly to Lukla but without lot of Nepalese tea. back in a small plane to Kathmandu luck because of the weather for real showers, baths and massages condition. Fortunately for us, we had Every evening in the lodges, which were all really needed, some a 4-5 day cushion for disruptions. trekkers, guides, porters and locals souvenir shopping, and goodbye On our 2nd days of trying, we were gather and shared their lives and dinners with our new friends. It was able to fly to Lukla but had to turn adventures of the trek. The socials then a long flight home where back due to poor visibility condition at the highest altitude in the world friends and family could not wait to on the route. Our hotel, Yak and kept us warm and away from the hear about our adventure, a trip of a Yeti, was booked up so Dawa-ji elements outside. On Sherpa land lifetime! booked us into the Gokarna resort people are very friendly with tourist, outside Kathmandu. This place was once the country house of the Royal families of Nepal and was used for hunting sports by the royalties. The place is indeed a wonderful place.

When we finally flew into Lukla, the wonderful feeling of really being in the Himalayas began. The first sight of the hardworking yaks and equine, the crows and the magnificent sight of the mountains surrounding us, promising even more breathtaking views waiting for us. Along the trail there were lengthy lines of trekkers

60 Nepal Vision 2012 2011 Community Service Project in Kathmandu: NEPALNEPAL BHAKTABHAKTA VIDYASHRAMVIDYASHRAM Science Lab Project 2011 - A Picture Story

* Construction of Science lab and Library by WatersFromHeaven (Belinda Swank) * Library Setup and Books Procurement by WatersFromHeaven (Belinda Swank) * Science lab Materials and Setup (Nepalese Association of Houston (NAH) Project Summary * Located in Tengal Chowk within Raktakali Temple Compound * Built in 2026 B.S with an additional building built in 2040 B.S * Total of 120 students approximately from Grade 1 through 10 Bhatka Vidya Shram

* Science lab and Library Construction

Nepal Vision 2012 61 * Painting and Final Touchup Construction Cont’d

The project was led by Manish Pradhan and further supported by Belinda Swank and Greg Swank from Houston, TX who visit Nepal every year to provide the charity work in Kathmandu. NAH is highly appreciative of their love, dedication, and hard-work for improving infrastructure of Bhakta VidhySharam, a public * Completed Science Lab and Library school located in the Science Lab and Library heart of Kathmandu. (Thank you Ready to get involved with out community workers? Please Nepalese Association of Houston- NAH) contact NAH – It belongs to you !

62 Nepal Vision 2012 Nepal Vision 2012 63 64 Nepal Vision 2012 Nepal123.com, Hamroaawaz.com and Milan Photography. Houston Musical Night In 2011 we held few more events which include; the musical night in Houston, TX featuring the pioneer of the Nepali music industry Mr. Deepesh Kishor Bhattarai. Along with the great support of Ms. Suneeta Sanjyal who emceed both events, and Mr. Santosh Sitaula for providing the technical aid. InStyle Dallas Night InStyle Night Dallas, this event was held in Dallas, TX featuring the talented Ms. Nalina Chitrakar and the amazing Deepak Bajracharya for the concert. Along with that, the fashion show was held and showcased by our various Instyle Models, and few other very talented InStyle Nepal is the premiere applaud. In addition to that, the guest models. destination for fashion and lifestyle, fashion show include other amazing Current InStyle entertainment news and celebrity models like Mr. Amit Giri, Mr. InStyle Nepal aspires to be a bridge inside. It is also an entrepreneurial Anup Pandey, Mr. Kripal Panta, Mr. between Nepal and America to help engine for creative ideas and skills. Shekhar KC, Mr. Rakesh Karn and and support the extraordinary We embrace artists at every level of Mr. Rohan, Ms. Bimina Ranjit, Ms. talents that we have in our their career, as well as all supporters Jeny Pathak, Ms. Nabina Basnet, community, not only in America but of the arts. We provide a platform Ms. Christina Piya, and Ms. everywhere around the globe. We to demonstrate and exhibit the talent Sunaina Ranjit. This would not have intend to put on number of shows through our website and the events been completed with all the support in the future, which we guarantee we organize. In 2009, the and handwork of a designer. Ms. to make it very entertaining. Please organization started with the first Pratikchhya Shrestha-the official visit us at www.instylenepal.com to event, Houston Fashion Show, designer of InStyle Nepal. Her see how we are doing. Once again which includes a cultural show collection included amazing sarees, we would like to thank everyone for along with DJ nights. fusion wear, bridal wear and many all the love and support ever since more. It was brilliantly we started, and are we looking Houston Fashion Show choreographed by Ms. Bimina forward to get the same kind of The event kicked in with Ranjit, co-coordinated by Mr. Amit affection for the days to come. performances by various local artists Giri, Ms. Nabina Basnet and Kripal which include singing and dancing Pant. After all the glitz and glam, "Fashions fade, style is eternal"- with traditional attire and music. the event followed by a DJ dance YSL Following with that, the main event party by Mr. DJ Gorkhali Sailendra started with Mrs. Sarah Tetsuka Khatri from Baltimore. This event Gurung (first runner up-Miss Nepal was a success, and it was witnessed InStyle Nepal 2004) the show stopper of the event, by 250 plus audiences. To make it www.instylenepepal.com as walking down the ramp with all possible, it was supported by; [email protected] fusion outfit that left most audience Nepalese Association of Houston Phone: (646) 247 4931 with a smile and a huge round of (NAH),Texasnepal.com,

Nepal Vision 2012 65 Heartfelt Condolences

Akleesh Katel

Deepak Dahal Manoj Shrestha

We extends Heartfelt condolences and Deepest Sympathies to the Family and Friends. May their departed souls rest in eternal peace in the Heavenly Abode!

Nepalese Association of Houston (NAH)

66 Nepal Vision 2012 cfkm\ } ;f; kml:sg' ] xf ] d cfkm' cfkm} leq x/fO { /xsf] ] 5 ' . s;nfO { ;Demg ] s;nfO { la;g{ ] cfkmg\ } lhjg;uLgLnfO+ { ;gf' nf} ] lk8f leqsf ] dg ;kgf af8b\ } 3/ 5f8] sf] ] klg cfh cfwf bzs klg kf/ul/ ;s5] . nfvf {} sfif] 6f9f ePklg ltdf| ] of ] ;x/sf ] sfnfxnk] 0f" { le8df d Tolx eP/ xfnf] aflx/ xf; ] klg kltlaDadf| emlNs /xG5 ' d, r6sn] ] grfpg ] efn ' em+} gfrL dg /fO] /x{ 5] . ;?sf' lbgx? ljZjf; xf ] 7nf" ] s/f' cljZjf; /x5] ' . t/ of ] d/f] ] gfr xg] {] oxfF ;Dembf dg eSsflgP/ cfpbF s;/L u? d, sg' } bzs{ 5g \ gt lt lg/Lx vlz' clg lk8f ;uF } z?' u/sf] ] ltdf| ] lk8fsf ] eªu" f| df] ;w } ;lNs a6jfx?' laxfgLsf ] ;of' bo{] ;uF } Tof ] sl7g ofqf slx] kfpgsf /xG5 ' d, kTo| s] dgjfsf' sbdx? kIfLF nfuL t/ jiff +{} eof ] gt cfkmn" ] of ] lhGbuL v } s ] lhGbuL eGYof} cfkmgf\ ] rf/fsf] ] vflhdf] hun+ sxL] kfpg ;s ] gt sxL] dgUo ltdLn], rfxf/ ] em+} cfkmgf\ ] rf/sf] ] vflhdf] lbgg } ;s ] gt pgsf ] sg' } rfxfgf t/ olx lhGbuLsf ] kdsf]| ] Pgf] t5f8 / d5f8 ub {} lx8g] g } k/f" ug { ;s ] gt ;fldKodf leq cgj/t 6lNs /xG5 ' d, dgjfx?n' ] d h:tf ] sfnfxndf] /x/] dfof ;f6g\ ;s ] gt cfkgf\ gfrsf] ] efnnfO' { g s;n+ ] bV5g] \ nfnfafnfnfO { /fv/] slx] vjfpg' gt pgLx?nfO { km;" b{ g } 5 . g } ;s ] . plg klg aiff;Dd+{} d/f] ] cfkmgf\ ] lhjgdf jl/kl/ kfxf] /] ;fn lgoltn ] ;;/f' af6f ] xbf] { xb] {} yfs/] cfvfsfF kltljlDjt| xg' ] lo hLjgsf afafnfO { n6' /] nUof ] of ] ;fn d/] } rkx?af6] cfzF ' aufpbf aufpbF } t/nLx?] cfkmg\ } 5flt leq Hjf/ afafsf ] kf0fnfO| { kv?df] p8fO{ st } af6f ] la/fpl5gsL < lztn ef6f ag/] p7sf] lo hLGbuLsf lbof ] xfn;fn } d/f] ] ddtfdoL lbg g;Sg ] ?v eGb } st} cw/Lx?,] clg /fte/L ;Demgfdf' cfdf klg la/fdL kg {' ePsf ] 5 /] cs?vsf{} ] 5xf/Ldf cft] nfUg ] xg' cfxf] /bf] xf] /] ul//xg ] / slxNo} x/t] of ] d/f] ] efU h;n ] of ] ;gf' nf} ] sL < zsf+ dfq,} ;Demb { hfbf klg a:g gdfGg ] of ] k/nLx?] wltdf{ dnfO { kbfk0f{ u/fof ] pg} cfkmn" ] 5f8] /] cfPsf ;fyL ;uL+ / cfh klg p:t } 5g \ ltdfnfuL,| afaf cfdf la/fdL k//] gftf uftf] udfP' h:tf ] nfU5 . lhGbuLsf cga/t ofqfx?df cf5] ofgdf\ kbf { PsufnL] cfvlt] cfdf / ;f; ' cfdfsf cfvf g lx8b\ } hfg ] psfnLdf klg ltdL Vjfpg ;ldg . cemst } cfdfnfO{ aflxl/Pkl5 cfefPsf] 5gg} /] cf/fnLdf] klg ltdL a:bf ltdL ladf/n ] emg RofKof ] ls eGg] lgoltn ] t afaf / ;;/f' a:bf ltdL p7bf\ klg ltdL kn va/ ;Gg' gk/f;] elg of ] dg afafnfO { nuL ;Sof / kfxf] /sf] ] ;Demgfsf syfx?df dg leq ;w+ } ;w+ } ql;t 5 . bzltxf/+} lg/; eof ] clg of] 8a' lN8s' dfbf { klg ltdL . ltdf| ] ;fnsf ] klg casf lbg s;/L x/kn ofbaf6 lj:tflkt xg' bdsf ] /fun] ] :jf :jf ub {} lx8g\ ] Aoltt xg' ] xg' cemklg} d of] g;Sg ] d kml/] ltdLnfO { vfHb] } lo afaf–cfdfsf ] d sfG5f ] jzfsL} - uGtJolxg ofqf ul//x5] ' . slx] uug rDaLdxnx?sf' ] lzv/af6 nf/f} _] pxfx?sfF ] ;fxf/f alg lx8g\ kfpg ] cfz } cf;df ;a } lrh ;8sdf u8L/x' sf] uu6F ] gkfpb } afaf;u+ t la5fb] eof] udfO' { ;s5] ' . uf8Lx?sf ] nfjft/s/ ;uF } st } cfdf;u+ klg la5fb] xG5ls' af6fdf] kbrfk\ a6jfx?sf' ] elg of ] dg Psf;n ] 8/fO { /xG5 . >L/fd yfkf rfnx? h:t } d/f] of ] uGtAolxg sfdbfd / zfg vfHb] } eftfl/Psf} ] uNdL,' xfn cdl/sf] kfOnfx?{ klg nlDs/xsf] 5g \ . of ] lhjg cf;cf;df} sglbg' 6S;f;] xi6g'

Nepal Vision 2012 67 Uof:6fO` l6;{ x?sf\ nflu ef]hg wtL{

– 8f= /rgf /flgof/} ;uGwL' kmnsf" ] dfnf hLjg pdË ub5{ tflnsf 8fO{l6l;og ljZjf;n ] pg } kd]| sLlt { cd/ aGb5 kljq kddf]| Oz{ v;Ln' ] d:s' /fp' 5F a;w' j} s6' Dasd' \ nfO { ;fsf/ ub5{ .

s ] s:tf ] efhg] pkoQm' xG5' eGg] /fi6sf ] kdn]| ] cfkm} dgdf xif { 5fp5F s/f' k:t| t' u/sf] ] 5 . zvnf+[ lxdsf ;DemL dg pdË Nofp5F 8fkmF ] jgr/L dfly ha p8fg ub5{ != Uof:Uof:6fO|` l6;{ sf\ `fOl6;{ \ ;d:of nssf] ] zGotfnfO" { ks| ltn[ ] l;ufb+ 5{ . ePsf x/s] /fuLnfO] { d;' /f' sf] ] bfn, u8fu] 8L,' tf/sf] ] vfgf, al9 af;f] ] u/f' ;F kmndf" ofjg–nflndf} ha “/fli6o` /fu] ” eg/] xfdLn ] Jo·o ePsf ] df;,' uf8sf] ] jf k/fgf' ] r9b5\ ug {] u/sf] ] /fu] “Uof:6fO`| l6;{ \ cyft{ crf/, al9 kmfOj/oQm' vfgf, wtL { ;f/f /Ëd~r ;fGbo} k{ 0f" { aGb5 Uofl:6s` /fu] ” n ] kfoM| xfdL x/s] jIfsf[ ] 8flndf SjnL} ha ufpg c08f / 8fOkm` 8' ;\ Psbd sd vfg yfNb5 gkfnLnfO] { 5fPsf] ] 5 . c?nfO { xbf“' ;Nnfx lbOG5 . do/" kv+ kmnfO} { 5D5dL gfRg yfNb5 . gfgfeftL“ ;Nnfx lbG5f +} clg Jo·o u5f {} t/ ha cfkmnfO} { k5 { clg @= Ps } rfl6] w/] } vfgf Ps } k6s ;bfaxf/ wtLsf{ ] ;fGbo} { ha 5fp5F aNn o;sf ] lgoGq0f ug {] pkfo ug{ vfg ' eGbf yf/] } yf/] } ul/ tLg rf/ stf stf xbodf[ :jR5Gb efj cfp5F yfN5f +} . k6s vfg ' /fdf| ] xG5' . emem/{ \ zAb u/L emgf { ha tof ] Wjlg ub5{ #= o;ul/} lrof bUw' jf ;kx?' cfgGbL dgsf bMv' l5gd } ;a xb5{ . aRrf blv] a9f' ;Dd x/s] gkfnLsf] ] Psbd tftf ] vfg ' eGbf cln 3/df /xsf] ] Uof:6fO`| l6;{ sf\ ] ;nfP/] vfg ' jz] xG5' . wfgsf ] xl/of ] afna ha nxnxfp5F ;d:ofn ] cfh xfdLnfO { lk/fn] sf] ] 5 . rftk} m{ xifsf{ ] jiff { wtL { g } d:s' /fp' 5F zl//df xg' ] kfrglqmofsf] $= o; /fuaf6] lkl8tx?n] ha a;Gtn ] 3D6f' ] p3fg { ;?' ub5{ clgoldtfn ] ubf { Ps lsl;dsf] nx;gsf' ] kof| u] ubf { jz] xG5' . ;s] v;Ln' ] bzk] dL]| dg } clt /dfp5F . ;Dd laxfg vfnL k6df] Ps s;] f| Uof;“ kbf} eO { k6] kmNg' ,] 8sf/ l:kË,| xo\ :6g,' 6S;f;] cfpg ] h:tf ;d:of xg' ] u5 { . nx;g' lgoldt vfg ] u/sf] ] v08df ;o+ Qm' /fHo cdl/sf] d;nfbf/ vfgf, lrNnf ] oQm' vfgf o; /fuaf6] aRg ;lsG5 . / kmfOj/ oQm' vfgfn ] g } of ] ;d:of %= To:t } laxfg vfnL k6df] k;:t| pTkGg xG5' . To; sf/0f oL dfyL kfgL lkpg ' / Jofofd ug {' klg o; pNnlvt] vfgfx?sf ] sd kof| u] g} /fu] lgbfgsf ] ;/n pkfo xf ] . o; /fuaf6] aRg ] ;lhnf ] pkfo xf ] . o; } s/fnfO' { Wofgdf /fv/] xNy] ^= uxsf“' ] /f6L] ds } afh/f cfbL –u+uf lnun kfi6n] ] o; csdf+ kf7sx?sf ] nflu o; /fuLsf] nfuL pkoQm' g } xG5' . cWoIf, c=g=;f=;] xo\ :6g'

68 Nepal Vision 2012 Nepal Vision 2012 69 70 Nepal Vision 2012 A STORY BY

P. Gautam, Gautam Baje Houston Texas I arrived in the USA in September gravitate towards Indians and didn’t have a car, grandma of 1978, a young student. At the Pakistanis in college, birds of the wouldn’t let her drink, and beer in time, the term FOB was not same feather. I couldn’t quite fit the hotel was expensive. She’d common, however, I was as fresh in. I spoke Hindi but not fluently come talk to me at the front desk off the boat as anyone could be. I enough to have a conversation of when she was bored, and one day talked funny, dressed funny, and any depth. I spoke English well, she asked me to take her out into had no clue about what was about but my syntax was lacking. I town. I came up with excuses, to happen to my life from here on didn’t know any slangs or such as classes, homework, work out. I remember buying a large colloquialisms. I stood out like a schedule and others to avoid this Coke at the airport and converting frog in a fish bowl, and whichever highly uncomfortable situation. the dollars to rupees, and nearly bowl I hopped into, it wasn’t After all, what was I supposed to having a heart attack. I remember home. do on a date? I was 19 years old, nearly having a second heart still a virgin, and highly fresh off attack when I saw the size of the I got homesick, very homesick. I the boat, and with no spunk. She Coke! It was a full liter of soda, went to work, I went to school, I would have none of it. We went crystal clear ice floating in it. did my homework, saved every out. dime. That was my routine. I had Almost everything tasted good too. only a vague idea of going to grad Eventually, she had to leave, and It was a land of plenty, indeed. school, then going to law school, after the standard goodbyes and From doughnuts to fried chicken, but at the time making and saving promises to write, she was gone. I from burgers to pizza, I sampled, enough money to be able to do that figured my life would go back to and thoroughly enjoyed was such a big task, all I could do being normal again- normal, that everything. Having come from the was to do what I could. About the is, as it was, work, school, work, regimen of dal bhat every day, it end of the first year of my boring school, save. But that was not to was amazing: the variety, the and nondescript life in America, be. Cut a long story short, out quality (or so I thought) and the everything changed. went my dedication to the convenience and speed with which almighty dollar, to school, to food was delivered was mind- I worked graveyard shift at a work. It was as though I had boggling. Holiday Inn as Night Manager, become a human being all of a and it just so happened that a sudden, welcome in America, the Houston was a boomtown then. I young lady from a small town in land of the free, the land of had no difficulty getting a job. I Illinois was staying there. She had plentiful cold beer, pretty women worked hard, got several nothing to do: she was escorting and fun. promotions, and within six her grandmother to Houston for months I was making around $9 medical treatment; between It is obvious that now, well into an hour which was great, appointments weeks would pass. I my fifties I didn’t turn out to be an considering minimum wage was had low self-esteem, coupled with academic. I’m not a doctor, nor an only $3.35. I worked plenty of an almost religious need to add to engineer. I didn’t go to law school. overtime, went to school and tried, my savings, and really didn’t even I did, however, manage to make a in some way to plan a life. In feel comfortable looking a woman decent life for myself over the years, retrospect, that would have been in the eye, let alone asking her out and provide well for my family. I futile anyway. Life happened in on a date. don’t remember much of junior and ways I couldn’t have imagined. senior years in college: it was work, She’d spend time in the pool. fun, more fun, work, and some The Nepali population at the time She’d hang out in the lobby. school. I got passing grades, was miniscule. I tended to Drinking age was 18 then, but she nothing to write home about.

Nepal Vision 2012 71 In the process, something ideas to be relived. My advice to your pride. Don’t be afraid of happened that I had no idea young people coming to America rejection. That’s the only way you would. I became gregarious, made as students or immigrants is won’t end up in your mid-fifties friends easily, and acquired many simply this: don’t be dependent wondering what would have social skills I’d previously severely upon your own people. Live a little. happened if you’d done things lacked. I felt confident, had a Make new friends. Enjoy life. Take differently. bounce in my steps, shook hands risks. Not all risks are money. Risk firmly, and walked tall. I seemed to radiate confidence. Gone was the shy man from Kathmandu, and what emerged was a man who was cfdf ltdLnfO{ ;Demg] km';{b 5}g sure of himself.It’s a very simple – lbgz] bjsf] 6f] story, a coming of age story of ;d:ofsf ] kxf8 dfly a;L sorts. But it was life-altering. lxdfnh:tf ;kgf bV5] ' d What would have happened, I 6sL' emofnsf\ ] cuf8L /fvL sometimes wonder, had I not been so kindly and lovingly treated by chDj/L afN5 ' eG5 ' d this visiting little angel from a Tolx lk/n ] xfnf] cfdf ltdLnfO { ;DemGg small town in Illinois? Would I have a couple of PhD’s, married aflx/ lj/fw] ubf { ub {} leq tnjf' rfl6 lbpnf“ one of my own kind, lived in suburbia, and met with my own ou' ;Dd ;Dhftf} ul/ cGTo kndf kmf6L lbpnf“ kind of people once a month or so kn' agfpg ] lgpdf klxn ] af8Lklx/f ] vfln] lbpnf“ to brag about the new car or the stellar careers of the offspring? Or /fi6 \ o4sf' ] anf] ld7f uLt ufOlbpnf“ would I have gone back, tail P:tf ;sd' { u5 {' cfdf ltdLnfO { lsg ;Dh' between my legs, to the home country where, if nothing, there gkfnL] zl//df cxsf/+ xfnL kfN6fdf] gf6] eml/lbG5' was a semblance of family, and support? ;u+ } arf } eg/] c?nfO { 6sLem' +} cfkm ' dlgsf' ] wAjdf kfl/lbG5' d:t t 5 lg lhjg ltdLnfO { lsg ;Demg,] kmfObf 5 / ? Sometimes no matter how hard you try to craft your life, life simply happens. When it does, it can be PsfbzL h:tf ] bzsf] ] cj;/df o4' n8g\ ] uf?] dfl/lbP“ the cause of profound change, or sflx] dYof {] eg ] st } ufOsfh:tf] cf;“ ' emfl/lbP“ lead to something you’d as soon not reminisce about. Having taken To;n} ] cfdf ltdLnfO { slxNo } ;Demg ;lsg the entrepreneurial route, I’ve had successes and failures: ;bf c?sf ] dfem sl8sP/\ kefj| kfl/lbP“ bankruptcies, resurgences. When Olyoflkofsf] ] ul/aL gkfndf] ;fl/lbP“ you’re down and out, you just pick yourself up, and keep on going. slxNo } gslxg' ] Knfl:6s h:tf ;frfOn] ] ;Qf 6fl/lbP“ There’s always another chance. cfkmgf\ lj/fwdf] xg' nfO] { l8k;g]| lbO dfl/lbP“ You’ve learnt from your past mistakes. You’re wiser, stronger, and more apt to succeed than ever w/] } sfd u/ +] cfdf before. dfkm ug {' ltdLnfO { :xfg {] km;' b{ kfOg

I’ve been fortunate to have had n8L5f } eggL] cfkm } p7 cfdf many mentors over the years. I’ve cfkmgf\ ] 3/ agfpg cfkm } h6' cfdf mentored many, my way of giving lsgls ltdLnfO { ;Demg ] km;' b{ 5g} back to those who’ve deserved the mentoring. Ultimately though, ltdf| ;GtfgnfO { ltdLnfO { ;Demg km;' b{ 5g} ======life’s not a series of second-hand

72 Nepal Vision 2012 Ghatasthapana which means the DASHAIN installation of a ceremonial holy water jar, the symbol of female principal power – so to say Devi with the season’s best blue Durga whom we worship during - Late Dhurba K. Deep the entire period of Dashain. This festivity continues for ten long Himalayas are days. Hence the name Dashain always there to indicating its ten day long thrill you. It celebration. reminds me of a One of the highlights of this very nice little festival is the animal sacrifice to poem on autumn. Devi Durga, the universal mother Here is the sample goddess. It occurs on the 8th day for you to taste. of Dashain locally known as "Autumn has Mahaastami. The appropriate time arrived again- traditionally set for this worship is Blue wine from the late midnight of Mahaastami. heaven I can This particular night is called smell. Mahakala Ratri meaning the great Now my gods dark night sacred to Devi Durga. won’t drink with The worship of Devi with the me anymore- animal sacrifice at this particular They are drunk point of time is termed as already I can Sandhipuja which is said to tell." symbolize the wishful merging of the worshipper into the supreme Autumn in Nepal being worshipped. always comes with lots of marigolds The animals picked up for this and lalupate purpose always have to be male flowers for the (never female). There are five celebration of the different kinds of sacrifice animals season’s most such as water buffaloes, goats, fascinating sheep, chicken and ducks. This time of the year in Nepal is festivals. The perfect time to According to some tantric pundits autumn. The Nepali autumn is celebrate indeed. the water buffaloes symbolizes wonderful in many ways. The demonic anger, goats and sheep monsoon is gone already. Autumn here is also a season for stand for lust and stupidity Everything looks nice and new. fruits such as guavas, bananas, whereas chicken and ducks stand The sky is blue. The air is pears, persimmons, grapes, for timidity and apathy comparatively very clean. The oranges and so on. These are the respectively. atmosphere smells very much like season’s best produce. To get as spring in autumn. The rich red many varieties of fruits as one cam Although Dashain is supposed to lalupate fowers (poinsettia) and afford for this occasion is be celebrated for ten fulld ays as yellow bright marigolds are in their everybody’s passion here. the name itself suggests however best bloom. The full day sunshine many celebrate it only for three is like a dream coming true. To put One of the most important festivals days which are known as it in brief the whole climate creates we celebrate in this season is Bada Mahastami (8th day) Mahanawami a luxury for you to enjoy yourself Dashain. This festivity falls on the (the 9th day) and Vijaya Dashami with all the best of blue from first day of the bright fortnight of (the tenth day) respectively. heaven. Mornings are cool and Aswin/ Kartik (Sep/ Oct). The first During this particular period the evenings are very pleasant. Above day celebration of this festival Nepali people prefer to go to all the breath taking beauty of the traditionally begins with various Hindu temples dedicated to

Nepal Vision 2012 73 mother goddess such as Bhadrakali, Naradevi, Taleju, Vijeswari, Nawa Durga, Indrayani, ;'Gb/ au}+rf agfpm“ Maiti Devi, Mahalaxmi, Guheswari and so on which are all located at cfpm, ltdL xfdL ldn/] important points of Ktm. Valley and Pp6f ;Gb/' aurf+} agfpm“ worship them with many ritual of ] ldndtf] df] w/] } ;t { g/fvf+} offerings like flowers, fruits, lg;t { ldnf +} / lg:jfy { h6f' +} sweets, spicy foods specially animals to the temple and attend ;t { / :jfy { xflgsf/s xg' ;S5g the service of tantric nature which kjf" u{ x| kl/t]| sfdn ] aurf+} aGbg} runs for quite sometime. emg \ Jofsntf' / eon ] 8/f] hdfp5“ Another highlight of Dashain is the t;k5L] em6x?" /flkG5g] \ exchange of greeting with red tika g;fdf| emf8Lx? emxof\ uLG5g“ \ and Jamara flowers, the symbol of la;fn ' ;kx?{ ;NsG5g \ . blessing from Devi. It might be hu' eof ] ;Gb/' aurfsf+} ] ;kgf –8f= sdnrGb | jfUn] very interesting to go and see some ceremonial activities on this kfn]sf] cfkmdf' ePsf s07fx?' ld6fpm“ day. Unfortunately we do not have w/] } ulNtx? eP Jofsntf' / eo lgefpm“ any schedule set for these events. cglulGt kf7x? l;lsP kjf" u{ xx?| gbLdf ;nfO] lbpm{ “ So to find out when and where ca tL ulNtx? bfxf] of] pg{ ] xfOg] lagf;t,{ lg:jfy { h6f' +} those events will take place we advise you to take some discovery kf7 l;Sg ] xf ] t/ kjf' u{ fxL| aGg ] xfOg] cfl;s+ xfOg] ;TTklt;t| sfd u/f+} tours around important Hindu kl/jtgl;ntf{ t kfs| lts[ lgod xf] ktnL' vNg] ,] dfof km:6fpg ] ;Gb/' temples in the valley. t;] n} ] ;a } t;x?' la;fpm“ aurf+} agfpm “ .

74 Nepal Vision 2012 Nepal Vision 2012 75 76 Nepal Vision 2012