#733 21 - 27 November 2014 20 pages Rs 50

SAARC SUMMIT PRIDE AND SAARC is a grouping of countries PREJUDICE AT that numerically has the largest SAARC number of the world’s poor and can use its hungry people. No wonder the rest of the world is not very interested in the geopolitical positioning to Kathmandu summit. upgrade SAARC into a dynamic regional grouping. SAARC’S BY KANAK MANI DIXIT RAISON D’ÊTRE PAGE 3 EDITORIAL PAGE 2 DATELINE BY DAVID SEDDON AND DAMAKANT JAYSHI PAGE 4-5

REIMAGINING SOUTH ASIA BY THE WAY BY ANURAG ACHARYA PAGE 6

BIKAS RAUNIAR BEFORE THE SLAUGHTER

ilgrims from India and have started Parriving at the Gadhimai Festival (pic, above). There is expected to be a significant decline in the number of sacrifices this year because of the public outcry against the mass slaughter within Nepal and abroad.

MAOIST CHRISTIANS How an Army spy became a Maoist and decided to spread the gospel among Nepal’s guerrillas.

SUBHAS RAI PAGE 16-17 2 EDITORIAL 21 - 27 NOVEMBER 2014 #733 SAARC’S RAISON D’ÊTRE welve years ago, the SAARC Summit was finally held ‘military security’ to include ‘human security’. A nation is in Kathmandu after being postponed twice because If the South Asian Summit helps us to secure if it is free from hunger, disease, homelessness and Tof India-Pakistan tensions. The regional summit finally start thinking regionally and acting unemployment – not from perceived external enemies. has a history of being held hostage by the persisting cold You can be sure these matters will not be discussed at war between its two largest nuclear-armed members. The locally, it will be a start the Kathmandu Summit next week. There will be platitudes most newsworthy event in January 2002 in Kathmandu, in about poverty, of course, and lofty rhetoric as there has been fact, was the perfunctory handshake between Atal Bihari for the past three decades of SAARC’s existence. So, let’s Vajpayee and Gen Pervez Musharraf. not be too ambitious. A dozen years later, not much has changed. There has What will drive regional growth will still be bilateral been deadly shelling over the Line of Control in Kashmir, economic ties. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has and there was some worry that the Pakistanis would pull out made improvement of relations with neighbours a priority. at the last moment, or that Afghan leadership uncertainties That he took the trouble to invite leaders of South Asian would force a postponement. Barring late hitches, however, countries to New Delhi for his inauguration went beyond SAARC 2014 is on. symbolism, it indicated a shift in the paradigm of regional As international summits go, this will not make world relations. For too long, Indian foreign policy towards headlines like the recent APEC, ASEAN or G20 Summits the region has been driven by paranoia over encirclement, in Beijing, Naypyidaw and Brisbane. SAARC, after all, is and a siege mentality stemming from none of its neighbours a grouping of countries that numerically has the largest bordering each other but all of them sharing borders with number of the world’s poorest and hungriest people. The India. Modi is trying to turn geography to India’s advantage, sub-continent and the sub-Sahara are not much different in and make his country's vast market available to neighbours terms of average life-expectancy, rate of open defecation, in a refreshing, new push for co-prosperity and stability. child malnutrition, maternal and infant mortality. Despite SAARC can, therefore, focus on do-able things like progress in Bangladesh, Nepal and Bhutan, the sheer loosening border controls, visa-free travel, promoting population size of India and Pakistan drags down the meaningful regional free trade, improving transportation regional average. There are still parts of the Indo-Gangetic and tele-connectivity, building a regional power grid, plains where more than half the children go to bed hungry sharing rivers, flood control and weather early warning every night. data. Few SAARC capitals are connected by air. If air Yet, these two countries are at each other's throats, influence how seriously it is taken by the international connections are bad, you should try rail, road or sea links. spending precious resources on arming themselves when community. Inequality, deprivation and exclusion have a Actually, you can’t. There aren’t any. Even Modi had to they should be allocating them for education and health direct bearing on internal security of our countires. Popular cancel his overland trip to Nepal. of their people. For the past decade, India has the dubious insurrections, communal riots, insurgencies are fuelled There is really no sense in blaming the SAARC Secretariat distinction of being the world’s largest annual importer of by disenchantment and disillusionment of the youth. in Kathmandu for not doing much. SAARC is the lowest conventional arms. Pakistan lavishes $6 billion a year on its Underdevelopment, therefore, is a national security issue for common denominator of our red-tape, lack of transparency, military. South Asia. Inequality and social injustice have implications and a debilitating cynicism about our own ability to The level of human development of South Asia, for stability and geo-strategic status of each of our countries. work together. If the Summit helps us to finally think its economic status, and the well-being of its citizens, Let’s redefine the term ‘security’. It now has to go beyond regionally and acting locally, it will be a start.

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#GADHIMAI at Gadhimai and keep buying says Nepalis have moved on from food”, Roshan Karki, #731) . But GM THIS WEEK Gadhimai is based on a 260-year- animal fl esh in supermarkets. monarchy. That is not true. The seeds are very expensive and simply old ritual that an 18th century Julian new CA has not even discussed not affordable to Nepali farmers. imprisoned feudal lord dreamt monarchy. They have to depend on these seed of (“Overkill in Gadhimai”, Lucia de I am against the tradition as Reformed maker companies to buy the seeds Vries and Deepak Adhikari, #732). I learnt that only four per cent of in every season of farming. Time for it to end. animals are consumed and the rest A plea to Prime Minister Modi: Rjackson33 Mary rot and are buried. help Nepal stay united and become a S S Pokhrel Hindu Rastra. Save us from monsters I don’t believe there is any direct Tens of millions of turkeys will like Dahal and Bhattarai. Pashupati health risk to the consumer. The be slaughtered on Thanksgiving Day Gadhimai should be a day for will bless you, Mr Modi. Do the right underlying problem is money. in the US which coincidentally falls those that outsource death to the thing for Nepal. Companies pour in millions to create BIKASH KARKI (245 LIKES) on 27 November, the same day as supply chain to do some self-refl ection. Niru Nepali these ‘superman’ seeds. Where is Most liked on Facebook Gadhimai. Animals are killed and Non-veg the payback for them? Well, just kill Swayambhu Stupa with Gauri Shankar handled a lot more cruelly overseas, SAARC the reproductive ability of these GM in the backdrop on a clear autumn day on but these foreign activists who There are two types of killings: SAARC is a failure. (“From landlocked plants and farmers need to keep Wednesday. raise hell about the killings in Nepal humane and inhumane. The question to landlinked”, David Seddon, #732) buying seeds for the next season, don’t seem to make much fuss is how to make killings at Gadhimai Nothing good has come of it. Idealogy rather than using their own. Most shared on Facebook there. less inhumane. without implementation is only fi ction. N SAARC traffi c tips by Ass Johnny Walker Subhas Lamichhane Resham Lama Most popular on Twitter INVESTMENT Come fl y with me by Ted Atkins The US is slaughtering turkeys Europeans kill and eat more FEDERALISM Ashutosh Tiwari left out the most (77 retweets, 48 favourites) so there is nothing wrong with animals in a day than will be killed at The argument that federalism is important word, corruption in Most visited online page Gadhimai massacre? What kind Gadhimai, so what is the problem with more democratic and brings progress his Cross Cutting column ("Is Overkill in Gadhimai by Lucia de Vries and of perverted logic is this? Both are doing so here out in the open? is not necessarily true (“Frivolous Nepal really open for investment?", Deepak Adhikari (1,453 views) cruel and barbaric. Sagar Ruptse federalism”, Bihari Krishna Shrestha, #732. Do you have any idea how Most commented Avantika Regmi #732). And historically, the break up long it takes to get a business Overkill in Gadhimai by Lucia de Vries MODI’S SECOND COMING of unitary states into smaller federal license without paying a bribe? And and Deepak Adhikari (34 comments) I strongly agree that A balanced piece (‘The second states, either based on geography or what about security and khaobadis? the massacres in Western coming’, Editorial, #732). Basically, ethnicity, has led to bigger problems As a Nepali, I have zero trust in slaughterhouses are not any better, Nepalis are telling Modi that they for the people of those countries. the political leadership, why should a Weekly Internet Poll #733 and rather worse actually, than like the fact that he likes them, but Other than the huge administrative foreigner trust it? Q. Was it necessary to declare two days public holiday what happens during Gadhimai in please don’t drag us into your bigoted cost and increased tax burden for Mahesh for the SAARC summit? Nepal. I oppose all forms of horrible and regressive domestic policies. As the people, it is unclear how having animal murders, wherever they an Indian, I hope our prime minister more states with the same feudal set Total votes: 396 are taking place. If you care about gets the message not to mix religion up is going to be more progressive or animals, you don’t eat them and and geopolitics. democratic for the people. CORRECTION you don’t give money to the system Rahul Dev Batsya In 'Come fl y with me', #732, the that keeps exploiting them. But height of the jump in the Everest people who have not embraced a The author has failed to see or TRANSGENIC FOOD Skydive was incorrectly stated vegan lifestyle are quite hypocritical pretends not to see, that monarchy As a student of science, I believe due to a metric conversion error. when they express their disgust and Hindu state are different. We genetically modifi ed products don’t Skydivers actually jump from Weekly Internet Poll #734 at Gadhimai. You can’t blame can have a Hindu Nepal without pose any serious threats to human 7,620m. To vote go to: www.nepalitimes.com the people who murder animals having a monarchy. The editor also beings or other animals (“Transgenic Q. Will Modi steal SAARC's thunder?

Publisher and Chief Editor: Kunda Dixit Associate Editor: Tsering Dolker Gurung | Online Producer: Ayesha Shakya | Design: Kiran Maharjan Published by Himalmedia Pvt Ltd | Patan Dhoka, Lalitpur | GPO Box 7251 Kathmandu [email protected] | www.nepalitimes.com | www.himalmedia.com | Tel: 01-5005601-08 Fax: +977-1-5005518 Marketing: Arjun Karki, Surendra Sharma [email protected] | Advertorials: Ram Krishna Banjara | Subscriptions: Santosh Aryal [email protected] Nepali Times on Facebook Follow @nepalitimes on Twitter Printed at Jagadamba Press | 01-5250017-19 | www.jagadambapr.com 21 - 27 NOVEMBER 2014 #733 OPINION 3

he upcoming SAARC Summit, the third in Nepal Tafter 1987 and 2002, is happening as Kathmandu suffers deep socio-political polarisations as it tries a second time to write the constitution. The national civil society is as if in stupor, while the political class is stretched thin and in poor position to lead the diplomats and bureaucrats. Pride and ANALYSIS Kanak Mani Dixit prejudice at Narendra Modi has arrived like a meteor over South Asian Kathmandu can use its geopolitical skies, but we do not know if his imperious unilateralism will positioning to upgrade SAARC into a work in the South Asian regional dynamic regional grouping context. Coming to attend the SAARC multilateral SAARC summit, he BIKRAM RAI plans barn-storming events in Janakpur and that the the meantime, Kathmandu can to cumulatively promote regional transit through Bangladesh for agenda of SAARC summits timid politicians of Kathmandu do take the lead in adding texture to goals. India, transit through Pakistan and programs. It may even take not have the wherewithal to deny. SAARC. There are literally hundreds for Afghanistan and India are decades, but SAARC will have (At press time, the two visits The most pressing need at of urgent issues that SAARC priorities. ‘arrived’ when the governments suddenly seemed to be in doubt.) the conceptual level is to define must take up regionally and sub- Some of these matters will be of South Asia decide formally As the host nation on 26-27 not only pan-regional (all eight regionally. One would be the addressed in the People’s SAARC, to address human rights November, and the SAARC chair members) but sub-regional (two ‘Asian brown cloud’, especially a gathering of South Asian civil abuse by state and non-state till the next summit perhaps two or more members) activities as India accelerates its use of low- society on 23-24 November, and actors, and agree on a regional years away, Nepal has the onus as ‘SAARC’-related or ‘South grade coal. We need to collaborate the day will come when what mechanism to deliver justice to of tackling the Modi wagon in a Asian’. This simple demarche on conservation of rhinoceros is discussed among the people the victims. manner as befits and benefits all will inject adrenalin into the between Nepal, India and Bhutan; will find its way into the formal @KanakManiDixit South Asia. It is clear that, both organisation, helping it represent personally and geopolitically, the true diversity and energy of the new prime minister of India the Subcontinent. Simply put, wants the neighbouring countries SAARC is restricted in its scope to achieve progress, but will he by having to include each of the proceed consultatively? We do eight members in every activity, not yet know whether his forceful which leads mostly towards personality can function within lowest-common-denominator the confines of the sovereignties of initiatives. SAARC. There are at least two Nepal- Nepal is probably the ideal generated proposals before the member-state to take up the foreign ministers when they chairmanship of SAARC at meet to finalise the summit this sensitive hour of transition agenda. One is for SAARC to because it remains geopolitically formally support the cooperative the least-threatening among the movement as an alternative basis larger countries of South Asia. for socially-committed action, The first thing obviously is for distinguished from governmental the observers of SAARC to realise action, the private sector, its limitations, functioning as it development donors and the does under the strait-jacket of non-governmental organisations. consensus among eight foreign None of the member states ministries. SAARC’s lack of should have a problem with this dynamism reflects the reality of proposal. strident nationalisms among the The other proposal which majority post-colonial states of the trade unionists and South Asia. labour activists of Nepal have We can disparage SAARC’s strenuously lobbied for is a snail-pace, but we have to SAARC-level partnership to appreciate it just for being there, protect the millions of South forcing the heads of government Asian job migrants toiling every so often to give the overseas. This would be official nod to the concept of important for the migrant- regionalism. In reality, it is not sending countries like India, the governments but the civil Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal and society of our societies that will Sri Lanka. The big question, as help build regionalism of the kind always, is whether national pride that soften borders and builds and prejudice will keep India and prosperity and peace. Pakistan from agreeing to a joint At the very least, the goal- SAARC platform, this one on setting in the SAARC Social migrant labour. Charter and the South Asia Free The official theme for the Trade Area represents aspirations, Summit as suggested by Nepal and if not at the regional then is ‘Deeper integration for peace, these can be achieved at the progress and prosperity’, and national and bilateral levels. The the specific focus should be on oft-repeated call for allowing infrastructural connectivity as a discussion on bilateral differences means of building stakeholders between the governments of for regional stability. For this to SAARC is a non-starter and it is have meaning, too, we must re-jig best to shelve this suggestion till the SAARC formula to allow the such time we have all matured. In sum of bilateral ‘connectivities’ 4 NATION 21 - 27 NOVEMBER 2014 #733 Cleaning up Janakpur Officials need to clean up their act, not just tidy up the town for the Modi visit

DAVID SEDDON the city. twin Janakpur with Ayodhya in JANAKPUR Minister for Physical Planning (marrying Sita with Ram, as it and Transport Bimalendra were) and to bring in Indian Nidhi has been more active than assistance for the development of he town that is the most in the last few months, the Janakpur Ring Road and the birthplace of Sita was orchestrating a welcome for the construction and renovation of Tgetting all spruced up in Modi visit on 25 November. It local religious sites. preparation for the visit here of seems that representatives from The proposals were first Indian Prime Minister Narendra the local business community, announced in July when a Modi next week. But the district leaders of various meeting of the Greater Janakpur cancellation has focused attention political parties, security chiefs, Area Development Council on the neglect of this town. CDOs and LDOs and other big- decided to request support from As in the capital, Kathmandu, wigs in government and the India to beautify the areas of rapid progress has been made administration, as well as civil three key temples of Janakpur in recent weeks to clean up society leaders from Dhanusha, and the religious ponds. the garbage, corral and remove Mahottari and Sarlahi, were all Nidhi apparently hoped that the herds of semi-feral wild present at a preliminary meeting announcements would be made pigs, paint the buildings and held at the Local Development regarding this anticipated Indian repair roads that should have Training Centre at Mujheliya on aid during the visit, but all that is been upgraded and made fit for 14 November. up in the air now. and drew attention to the massive Development and Federal Affairs purpose months, if not years ago. A civic reception was to be Still, many will be asking misuse, and disappearance, (MoFALD), receiving just 27 out Some of the activity has been held in honour of Modi when he whatever happened to the of funds for the maintenance of 100 points, failing to meet the the work of a popular campaign arrived perhaps along one of the funds promised by the Asian and development of the town. satisfactory development criteria. to clean up the famous ponds recently upgraded roads from the Development Bank a few years He pointed out that Dhanusha None of Dhanusha’s 101 VDCs of Janakpur, but some has been border. Minister Nidhi, who is ago for the urban development stood last in the list of all the 75 and the Janakpur Municipality the result of an unusual concern himself from Janakpur, had taken and reconstitution of Janakpur. districts of Nepal in the Minimum met ministry targets. on the part of the government to the opportunity to announce that Journalist Nirjana Sharma last Condition Performance Measures Dhanusha was one of the improve the visible appearance of negotiations were underway to year asked ‘What ails Janakpur?’ (MCPM) of the Ministry of Local only nine ‘failed’ districts

relief because they feared Modi would raise Nidhi, on the other hand, said in a hopes of restoring a Hindu state. statement late Thursday: ‘We and Janakpur In Janakpur, priests, politicians and have lost a great opportunity with the Modi plays it safe businessmen I spoke to this week before the cancellation of the visit …despite all the cancellation were all unanimous in their preparation under my leadership for the support for a Hindu state. visit, the UCPN(M) and Madhesi parties The cancellation of Modi’s Janakpur visit is a reflection of how Nepal’s They resented the attempt to make irresponsibly demonstrated against the Nepal secular in the new constitution, preparations and issued threats.’ domestic politics has always spilled over into relations with India arguing that religious minorities were never Nidhi had told me on Sunday that discriminated against when Nepal was a the visit would have a positive effect for JANAKPUR -- India’s Prime Minister The anger against Kathmandu’s Hindu state. But they were not in favour of Nepal’s unity and stability. He, however, Narendra Modi had decided to attend attempt to muzzle Modi was already restoring the monarchy. could not clarify if the speech Modi would the SAARC Summit in Kathmandu by unmistakeable here in the capital of The Mahant of the Janaki Temple, have given in Janakpur would first be symbolically crossing the border overland . “It is not about security. The Ram Tapeshwar Das, was confident that vetted by the government. on 25 November from to this town in Nepal government is afraid that a hugely the new constitution would restore the Modi may not have wanted to upset his Nepal, the birthplace of Sita. popular Modi would announce some Hindu Rastra. When reminded that an phenomenal popularity in Nepal where He was to be offering puja at the Janaki development projects which they have overwhelming majority of the Constituent the Gujarat riots and his role in it are rarely Temple and address the public, and this been unable to deliver,” said Shiv Shankar Assembly members are committed to mentioned. Most Nepalis are impressed by had landed the Nepal government into a Sah, chairman of Janakpur Chamber of Nepal being a secular state, he replied: “A his charisma and ‘development model’. The bit of a quandary. Commerce and Industry. referendum on the subject will tell us what opposition in Janakpur may have become In the end, Nidhi blamed the the majority actually want.” just too hot to handle. cancellation on the “extremist and But isn’t it already in the Interim In his well-received address to the intolerant” attitude shown by the Constitution? “That is only a temporary Nepal parliament in August followed by UCPN(Maoist) and its allied Madhesi measure,” came the prompt reply. his Republic Day address from the ramparts parties to issue threats against the visit. of the Red Fort, and then in his speech at The government was already trying to the UN General Assembly in September, THE DEADLINE douse increasing local pressure and the MODI'S he cited Nepal as a role model for conflict Damakant Jayshi sensitivity of a foreign leader making resolution. That has not gone unnoticed in a public address. But secretly, some in Nepal. Kathmandu must be heaving a sigh of And neither has it in India. So the In a meeting chaired by Minister for TOUR current powers that be in India would be Physical Infrastructure and Transport wary of sacrificing the new-found goodwill Bimalendra Nidhi here earlier this for Modi, and by its xtension, to India. week, parliamentarians, the business Modi and his close advisers are community, representatives of non- reportedly miffed at the way India’s government organisations and various Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) associations objected to the government’s NOV 28 mishandled Nepal policy during the Maoist plan to confine Modi to inside the temple MUKTINATH insurgency. They blame the spy agency complex. for contributing to anti-India sentiment Most people here wanted a felicitation in Nepal. Besides, the new Indian ceremony to take place at the nearby establishment sees the election result of NONOV 28 NNOVOV 26 Barhabigha which had hosted some Indian LUMBINILUMBINI KATHMANDUKATKATH November 2013 in Nepal as a confirmation leaders in the past, including a prime of its stance. minister and two presidents. Would Modi want to embarrass the “If the government does not organise NEW DELHI NOVN 2255 Nepal government and many in Nepal the felicitation at Barhabigha, then we will JANAKPURJJANNAKPU who do not identify themselves as Hindus hold our own public reception for Modiji by playing to the domestic gallery? By and request him to attend,” said Chanda cancelling the Janakpur visit, Modi has Chaudhury of the Nepal-Bharat Mahila shown he is going to play it safe. Maitri Sangh. @damakant 21 - 27 NOVEMBER 2014 #733 BUSINESS 5

and the backwardness in development. Many pinned their BIZ BRIEFS hopes for improvement on the agreement the Ministry of Urban Development signed with the Momos in Turkish ADB in July 2013 for a four-year Turkish Airlines’ new ‘Widen road project worth Rs 1.6 billion. your world’ global advertising The project was based on campaign ad has international a study called Unleashing football stars Didier Drogba Economic Growth: Region- and Lionel Messi making a Based Urban Development Strategy for Nepal (2010), one culinary journey across the of whose authors was eminent world. Nepal and its popular Nepali geography professor, momos also make a brief Pushkar Pradhan. The project appearance in the ad created by Crispin Porter & Bogusky. “The commercial document prepared by the explores the concept that food is the only way to experience diff erent Ministry of Physical Planning cultures,” said Turkish in its press statement. and Works for the ADB proposed the following components: Easy remittance storm water drainage, roads Prabhu Bank has signed an and lanes improvements and agreement with RBL Bank of solid waste management. India to facilitate easy transfer of Community Development remittance for Nepali workers in Programs were to be defined India. Migrant workers all across during implementation in India will now be able to send poverty pockets and guided by home money from 180 branches the Resettlement Framework of RBL Bank, remittance money can be collected from any of Prabhu’s 112 prepared for the project. branches in Nepal. More than three years after this proposal was published and more than a year after the agreement was signed, there is Long running little sign of any progress either Gionee Phones has introduced a new version of their M series with the ADB Urban Renewal mobiles, the M3. Boasting 33.7 hours of talk-time and 32.8 project or effective disbursement days of standby, the phone has a Quad Core 1.3 Ghz processor, of government funds for 5.0 HD display, DTS sound, 8MP back and 2 MP front camera. AMIR JOSHI maintenance development. Where has the money gone? whose development budgets development work was minimal It seems that it is time for were reduced by 25 per cent as ‘due to the interference of vested those officially responsible punishment of malfunction, the groups’. for the management and accounts had not been audited There were at that time 22 improvement of the rich heritage for two years. Locals blamed the political parties in the all-party area of greater Janakpur to clean municipality and the district mechanism of the DDC. The local up their own act, and not just the government, and talked privately political leaders for their part visible features of the city and its of massive corruption. The LDO blamed rival parties or the central surroundings. was reported as saying that body for the political situation @pigreen 6 NATION 21 - 27 NOVEMBER 2014 #733

Reimagining South Asia The Indian Prime Minister has an opportunity to go beyond his domestic image makeover to become a regional leader

he street lights are lit, the regional body has earned a shrines in Muktinath and national and international media Minister Nawaz Sharif to his roads have been black- reputation for being a talk shop. Lumbini, where he is scheduled with his magic mantra of ‘bikas swear-in ceremony during a Ttopped, side-walks paved. Past SAARC Summits have to deliver addresses and distribute and bhaichara’ (development and period of strained relations, Kathmandu is getting a much- also been eclipsed by tensions bicycles to students, has the fraternity). So, while the Muslims patiently mended Indo-China needed cosmetic facelift. between India and Pakistan. government nervous. in parts of Delhi are prevented ties while the Chinese were The government is even But the 18th SAARC summit Modi’s last visit to Nepal was from celebrating their festival by clashing with Indian forces at shutting down schools and offices is expected to change all that, historic in terms of improving BJP leaders, non-resident Indians the border. Modi has reached out for two days. The importance paving the way for closer bilateral cooperation on many from the same community to his neighborhood. In Nepal, of next week’s SAARC summit cooperation between members issues, including energy. But rapturously welcomed Modi in he disappointed ultra-Hindu and fostering regional integration. these were deals between Australia earlier this month. Such nationalists by refraining from The agenda includes the two sovereign governments is the power of ‘Modi Mania’, any mention of Hindu religion longstanding goal of connecting guaranteeing mutual benefits, even the world’s most powerful during his parliamentary address South Asia, allowing citizens Nepal does not need to bend over nation which once compared him in August. of SAARC nations to travel to backwards in appreciation. to Hitler and imposed a travel Narendra Modi is sure to other member countries by land, To understand Modi’s love ban, rolled out the red carpet in grab all the attention of the BY THE WAY waiving visa fee for SAARC for public diplomacy, one must October. Nepali and international media Anurag Acharya citizens and regional Power Trade look back at his recent past. Here To be fair to Modi, he seems next week, but if he really Agreement (PTA) to facilitate is a person, who was feared, if to be making a genuine effort wants to go beyond image for post-conflict Nepal, and the energy trade among member not hated in India until a year to transform not just his image makeover and project himself as possibilities it will open for its states. All this will boost growth, back for his divisive politics. But but his politics as well. This a regional leader, he must take recuperating economy can’t be bringing peace and stability to thanks to the unpopularity of his was most evident during his the responsibility of playing a overstated. the region through economic and political opponents, and astute election campaign in Faizabad, pivotal role in bringing peace The two-day jamboree will see social integration. media management, Narendra near Ayodhya where he miffed and political stability in South leaders of eight member nations However, the Nepal Modi managed to clean up his the radical RSS and his mentor Asia. and nine international observer government and the Kathmandu image and win the election with a Mohan Bhagwat by deliberately This will not just make him delegations, including United media are treating the occasion landslide. refraining from making any popular back home, but earn him States, China, European Union, more as a Indo-Nepal Summit. Today, despite communal mention of the disputed Ram support and leadership of one- Australia, Japan, South Korea The media obsession with Modi’s clashes under his government, Temple. fifth of world population. and Iran. In the recent years, visit to Hindu and Buddhist Modi has been able to bewitch He invited Pakistani Prime @Anurag_Acharya This is typical late autumn weather, with westerlies taking a fi rm hold bringing dry wind from the west. There is very little moisture associated with these successive frontal systems. However, because the prevailing direction is from the south-west, we in central Nepal get a lot of desert sand mixed with Indo-Gangetic inversion smog washing up on our mountains. Combined with ’s own overnight stagnated air, this reduces visibilty and fi lters the sun. Result: lower maximum and minimum temperatures. KATHMANDU FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY 24° 23° 23° #733 21 - 27 November 2014 9° 8° 8°

GAME GURU ore than 70 million people Nepali Times. “I had no idea in around the world play 2011 that it was going to be played MCandy Crush Saga every by millions of people around the IN NEPAL day, 700,000 of them are in Nepal world.” Palm was in Kathmandu for – one of the largest numbers in any the Ncell App Camp and spoke on explains, with the air of someone country in the world. Saturday at the Everest Hotel. who has answered this question Last year, Swedish company Candy Crush is free to many times before, “just because Kings Digital Entertainment which download and play, and because you have games doesn’t mean owns Candy Crush made 1.8 it is a cross platform game, users you don’t need friends or a social billion dollars in revenue, most can easily switch from playing on life. Being a book worm is also not of it came from the social mobile the phone to computer or even very sociable.” game. Even after two years of tablet. It makes money from in-app Because of the game’s release, the game’s popularity purchases of extra moves, lives popularity, Ncell thought Tommy continues to grow with daily and boosters. would be perfect to speak at the installations crossing well over Statistics show that women Ncell App Camp. “The main aim 50,000. between 25 to 55 are the most of the App Camp is to encourage With the exception of North loyal players, and spend longest Nepali app developers,” says Korea, the game is played in time playing it. Palm admits it is Ncell’s Sanju Koirala, “and Tommy every country in the world, even the first game that he developed is a great role model and we in the continent of Antarctica. which even his mother and sister believe his presence will boost the What is it about the game that has play. event.” transcended geographical and “There are already a lot of A Swedish company, Kings cultural boundaries to become the games for men in the market, but has always looked outside its most played game the world has very few for women so it is not borders for revenue earning. ever seen? hard to see why women play it Something Nepali developers will “I think it struck a chord with the most,” explains the Swedish need to start doing to truly make people of all ages and countries programmer. The parent company their apps global. “We live in a because of its simplicity and Kings has developed a niche really exciting time with so much accessibility,” Game Guru of market for non-violent computer potential in start-up business. Kings, Tommy Palm said in games and young women are an If you have talent in doing an exclusive interview with important target group. something that can go global, now Palm, who started developing is the time,” said Palm (pic) to the games in the 90s, is a self declared finalists of the Ncell App Camp on geek. He began playing games at Saturday. seven and by the time Nepal’s social media he was 12, had already networks were abuzz started programming. as word spread that Like a stereotypical Palm was in town. With gamer, he spent most 4.5 million Facebook of his time in his room, users, Candy Crush curtains drawn, eyes on is benefiting from the computer causing his spread of smartphones I had no idea parents to repeatedly and mobile internet. ask him to be more outgoing. Sobhana Shrestha is an avid in 2011 that Palm doesn’t like the word player, and says she got hooked “addictive” to describe the game to the game while nursing her Candy Crush the whole world is playing, he baby. “He would get up and cry at prefers “engaging”. He says the odd hours, and I had to wait until was going to trick is to make people want to he went back to sleep, and started be played by come back, and to challenge them. playing the game,” she adds. However, when so many people Many Nepali players want to millions of spend so much time playing the know: will the saga ever end? “Not game on-screen, doesn’t it take anytime soon,” says Palm, “we people around them away from reading and face- will keep on adding more levels as to-face social interactions? long as there is still interest in the the world. “It is important to do game.” everything in moderation,” Palm Tsering Dolker Gurung 8 EVENTS DINING Photo , Christmas at Dhukuti, Mezze by Roadhouse, Join photographers Ariel Estulin and Dhukuti launches its new range of The hottest new place to dine in town, Louis Au on a journey to Annapurna Christmas products. almost, always crowded. Darbar Marg and experience the beauty of the region Kupondole through the eyes of professionals. www.facebook.com/DhukutiACP Barista lavazza, $1,775, 21 to 30 November, The newest addition to the Valley’s www.outdoorphotojourney.com Infinite dreams, European inspired coff ee-culture cafes Artist Pierre Capponi’s artworks serves excellent mochas and lattes, don’t Yerma, refl ecting on changes in Nepal in the Aalishan, forget to try their grilled chicken sandwich. One World Theatre's rendition of the last two decades on display. For mouth-watering kebabs, fl avourful Jawalakhel Spanish folk musical tragedy by the great 23 November, 11am to 4pm, curries and delicious biryanis. Live music poet and playwright Federico Garcia Kathmandu Contemporary Arts Centre, on Fridays. Jhamsikhel, (01)5542032 Lorca. Patan Museum, www.kathmanduarts.org Karavan Rs 200 (adults)/ Rs 100 (students), Thanksgiving, 29 November to 21 December (Mondays off ), Natural dye, Kathmandu, Karavan Kathmandu is a pop-up bazaar Celebrate Thanksgiving with a traditional 5pm ; 13 & 20 December, 1pm, An exhibition showcasing handmade that opens in various locations around Thanksgiving-themed dinner complete The Village Theatre, Lajimpat, (01)4001089, clothes, shawls, jewellery,carpets made town every three months. A select with turkeys, pecan pies and free mulled [email protected] from natural dye. group of designers and entrepreneurs wine. Opens 21 November, 5pm to 8pm based in Nepal will put on display their 27 to 29 November, 6pm onwards, Winter bazaar, until 6 December, 11am to 7pm unique products at this edition of the Kilroy’s of Kathmandu, Thamel, (01)4250440 A showcase of exquisite, cultural and Taragoan museum, Hyatt hotel, Boudha bazaar which takes place 30 November Yin Yang authentic arts and handicrafts, knit wears, Fire and Ice, music and culinary delights. Tackling pollution, Most popular Italian restaurant in town, 29 November, 11am to 6pm, Environment specialist Bidya Banmail Restaurant, book table early, Thamel, (01) 44250210 East meets west as you choose from a Babar Mahal Revisited Pradhan will tackle pollution issues in variety of Thai and continental dishes. Nepal and discuss what can be done. Alfresco, Add a little spice to your life with the 28 November, 9.30am onwards, For homemade pastas and other lip- pad thai or green curry. If you can’t Hotel Shankar, Lajimpat smacking Italian delights. Soaltee Crowne handle the heat, fall into the safety Slam poetry, Plaza, 4273999 net of its western dishes. Thamel, (01)4701510 A two-day workshop with slam poet at Moksh Complex in Jhamsikhel. Nasala Chitrakar on spoken word With a wide range of products- from poetry. natural and organic skincare products, Degaa Resto Lounge, Rs 800, 29 & 30 November, 11am to 2pm, handcrafted jewellery, to one-of-a-kind For mouth watering Newari and Indian Sattya Media, 9813485716 accessories, and fair-trade clothing to cuisine. Kumaripati home decor items and art pieces- to Startup weekend, choose from, this might just be the Vootoo, Share ideas, form teams, makes place to get all your holiday shopping The new home of Newari cuisine, as well contacts and launch startups at Yoga retreat, done. as a continental menu for those who want Learn to keep your body healthy and this global network of leaders and to play it safe. Lajimpat, (01)4005222 mind and heart balanced at this yoga entrepreneurs. 30 November, 1 to 5pm, Moksh, Grill Me, workshop. 21 to 23 November, 4pm onwards, Jhamsikhel, A restaurant with a warm ambience and 21 to 23 November, Chandra Ban Eco- kathmandu.startupweekend.org, Dan Ran, www.facebook.com/karavankathmandu delicious grilled delights. The best authentic Japanese food in this Resort, www.ishacenter.com 9841776214 Jhamsikhel, (01)5535294 part of town. Jhamsikhel 21 - 27 NOVEMBER 2014 #733 9 MUSIC GETAWAYS Starry Night BBQ, Mango Tree Lodge, Catch Ciney Gurung live as you chomp on Culture walks, rafting in the Karnali, your meat stick. wildlife exploration, and jungle safari at Rs 1,299, 7pm onwards, Fridays, Shambala the Bardia National Park. Bhetani, Bardia, Garden Café. Hotel Shangri-La, (01)4412999 [email protected] Fulbari Resort, Enjoy the scenic view of as you pamper yourself with tennis, golf, drinks, and dinners. Pokhara, (01)4461918 Afro-Caribbean grooves, Head over for a completely diff erent Mum’s Garden Resort, musical experience with Cadenza and Head out to Pokhara for a peaceful and groove to Afro- Caribbean beats fused comfortable stay in beautifully designed with West African rhythms. cottages, surrounded by a lush green Rs 250, 21 November, 7.30pm onwards, garden with great views of Phewa Lake House of Music, Thamel and the Annapurna range. Lake Side, Pokhara, (061)463468

Did your paper arrive Waterfront Resort, on time this morning? The lakeside hotel invites you for special barbeque dinners on Friday and lunches If not, call our on Saturday. Sedi Height, Lakeside road, Music Fest, Pokhara, (061)466303/304, A culture and music festival with www.waterfronthotelnepal.com performances by Nepali and international bands like The Edge Band, X-Mantra, Buddha Maya Gardens Hotel, Steve Iko (Denmark), and Thermal And A Purplefest, Add value to your travel in Lumbini with CUSTOMER Quarter (India). Popular Bollywood singer Sonu Nigam a stay at probably the best hotel in the 13 December, 12pm onwards, will be performing with Nepali singers area. Lumbini, (71)580220, 9801033109, Mandap, www.nepalmusicfestival.org Sugam Pokharel, Yama Buddha. Also, [email protected] present will be Indian comedian Kapil Temple Tree Resort, CARE Deathfest, Sharma and other Nepali comedians. Accomplished – local and international 13 December, 3 to 7pm, Dashrath A peaceful place to stay, complete with Himalmedia Pvt. Ltd. – Extreme Metal bands come together to a swimming pool, massage parlour, and 5005601-07 Stadium, www.ncell.com.np/purplefest Ext. 243 Patan Dhoka, Lalitpur celebrate the glorious genre. sauna, it’ll be hard to leave once you go 9 and 10 January, venue to be announced in. Gaurighat, Lakeside, (61)465819 10 WWHYHY NEPALINEPALI FFOOTBALLOOTBALL HASN’THASN’T KKICKEDICKED OOFFFF ELVIN L SHRESTHA 1 Lack of major international wins he popularity of football has 2 Not enough facilities, training spread in Nepal in direct performance of its men’s 3 and women’s in international Sponsorship shortage tournaments, and is poised toT become even more popular as the live well,” says Mishra, “but business houses are Football Confederation (AFC) President broadcast of Indian Super League hooks sponsoring clubs with modest sums as part Mohammad Bin Hammam. The audiences via its sub-continental satellite of their corporate social responsibility.” parliamentary Public Accounts Commission footprint. National team captain Sagar Thapa says (PAC) and the FIFA Ethics Committee are However, football is competing with sponsorship is directly related to Nepal’s currently investigating the case. Thapa cricket for domestic audiences, and although performance in overseas games. “If the has been suspended for two months from Nepali teams have done better than before, national team shows more professionalism football-related activities. the failure to bring home football trophies and achieves some major successes, Even though more footballers have means that fan culture is still not up to sponsorship will automatically go up,” he become professionals, most have side jobs expectations. adds. in the civil service, army or police and don’t “I don’t think the Nepali team is less Thapa says for performance to improve, have time for proper training or take part in capable than any of the countries that there has to be more investment in football international tournaments. compete in the SAFF Championship,” says facilities and training. But no major sports The national league, on the other hand, is football analyst Sanjib Mishra, “we are infrastructure has been added in the last 30 too Kathmandu-centric: six of the 11 clubs in just not able to provide proper facilities, years, except for the Satdobato Complex. the country are based in the capital with the trainings and opportunities.” Since audience Football clubs need stadiums to practice and others in Jhapa, Kailali, Makwanpur, Morang size increases in direct proportion to the host mini-tournaments, which are in short and Rupandehi. “It is sad that people have wins by the national team, public interest is supply. to leave their lives in their home-districts still weak. The lethargy in national politics and come to Kathmandu to be able to play a In the leagues, the money involved has is also evident in sports, with a lack game they love,” says Thapa. increased but there is still a long way to go. of professionalism, commitment and Thapa says developing football in Nepal Clubs that used to operate with a budget of consistency on the part of the football needs improvements at three levels that are Rs 1 million now require up to Rs 10 million. governing body, ANFA (All Nepal Football mutually dependent: results in international The top prize for the national football league Association) as well as the players. tournaments, facilities and training for has risen from Rs 7.5 million last year to ANFA itself is mired in controversy after players, and sponsorships. Rs 10 million in the 2015 national league set corruption allegations prompted the Nepal hasn’t won any international to begin early December. resignation of irs president Ganesh Thapa tournament since the 1993 South Asian However, unless audience interest and a reprimand from FIFA. Games, and Thapa hopes that the long expands, sponsors and investors will not be Thapa is accused of embezzling funds drought will finally end in the upcoming enticed to fork out money. “Sponsors are worth Rs 581.71 million and accepting 2015 SAFF Championship in India. very important for a club to be able to do $115,000 in bribe from former Asian www.the-anfa.com Nepalis dominate Hong Kong race

AMY GUNIA in HONG KONG

amesh Bhattachan holds of four young Nepali runners, 45 minutes later, it was an easy Hong Kong dear to his who would be participating in win. Rheart. Born and raised Hong Kong’s grueling 100 km “The Nepali team was so fast in Nepal, he grew up at a time Oxfam Trailwalker race under his that I never saw them again after when opportunities in Nepal watchful eye. the start,” said Keith Noyes, a Hong were limited and passports were “They will be famous and Kong-based trail race organiser, difficult to obtain. popular runners back in Nepal whose team finished the race in 15 He jumped at the opportunity if they win,” Bhattachan said hours and 13 minutes. “They were to move to Hong Kong as a last week, in between training in a class by themselves in this for the British Army. Last week, sessions with his team. And race,” he said. Bhattachan returned to Hong Kong, win they did. On Friday evening None of the Nepali runners hoping his dream would again Uttam Khatri, Bhim Gurung, are new to Trailwalker. Khatri and become reality in the city he calls a Ram Bhandari and Kiran Kulung Bhandari, both members of the second home. finished the race in an impressive Nepal Army, ran for the winning This time, however, his 11 hours and 56 minutes. With the team last year. Gurung, also a hopes rested on the shoulders second place team finishing nearly member of the Nepal Army, and 21 - 27 NOVEMBER 2014 #733 11 BETTER HALF fter defeating Bangladesh 1-0 on Wednesday, Nepali women's Afootball team will now play against India in the finals of the third SAFF Women’s Championship which is being held in Pakistan. The team had earlier defeated Sri Lanka 3-0, Pakistan 2-0, and Bhutan 8-0 to reach the top four.

Nepal was also finalists in the last two editions of the SAFF Championship but lost the title to India both times. Despite its international success, the women’s team remains largely ignored at home. Only a tiny portion of ANFA’s big budget goes to the women’s football team, female players are paid less than their male counterparts, and have to make do with limited training. Last week, the Ministry of Youth and Sports announced a prize of Rs 100,000 to each player of the team if the Nepali

HIMAL ARCHIVE team wins the championship.

Kong’s Trailwalker are not for the uphill or down, however tired faint of heart. Race participants they may be feeling.” climb around 20 hills over the The race began as a Gurkha course of the race, the highest training exercise in Hong Kong, of which is 957 meters, gaining when in 1981 the Brigade FINISH LINE: (from left) Ram Bhandari, approximately 5,000 meters in of mapped out the Bhim Gurung, Kiran Kulung and Uttam Khatri elevation. original course across Hong fi nish the Oxfam Trailwalker 2014 in 11 hours When runners are not climbing Kong’s Maclehose Trail. In 1986, and 56 minutes. hills, they run across terrain Oxfam became a co-organiser that varies from beach sand to of the race and opened it to pavement to jungle paths. As public participation. The Gurkha this year’s race kicked off on teams, accustomed to Nepal’s Kulung, a porter and a farmer, Friday morning, the heat and high mountainous terrain, continued have both participated in the race humidity added an extra challenge to dominate the race. for the previous three years. All for the racers. The Gurkhas officially bid have participated and placed well Race organisers recommend farewell to Hong Kong with the in various races in Nepal. It is three months of training to United Kingdom’s handover of Bhattachan’s third year coaching a complete the difficult race. The the territory back to China in Nepali team in the race. Nepali team spent about that 1997, but not before winning Bhattachan and his runners are much time training in the hills the 1996 race. The Nepali happy with their results. “This is around Pokhara which clearly paid victory this year marks a return my third participation in Oxfam off. of the dominance of Nepalis in Trailwalker,” said team captain “Trailwalker is an amazing Hong Kong’s original Gurkha Khatri, “but this year we retained challenge for a trail runner,” said race. the crown, it is one of the happy Richard Kimber, a Hong Kong Bhattachan is already moments of my trailrunning based runner who ran Trailwalker thinking about next year’s race. experience.” They also hope in 2010 and has competed “I will bring a team and come for that their victory in a tough in dozens of marathons and the 2015 Trailwalker Race and international race will provide ultramarathons. “The elevation try to complete a hat trick.” motivation for up-and-coming gain and loss of the trail is runners in Nepal. unrelenting. For teams to crack Though Hong Kong’s hills pale the 12 hour mark they really nepalitimes.com in comparison to Nepal’s towering have no option but to just keep  The inspiration of a long-distance runner, #731  Run Maya run, #662 , the hills of Hong hammering every section, whether OXFAM 12 A MOST WANTED MAN arlier this year, the world lost attaché who appears to be on a great actor with the death of Bachmann’s side. EPhilip Seymour Hoffman. With As with the more sophisticated him died the possibility of bringing films about terrorism, there are to life countless future roles laced many grey areas in this film, all with the complexity and depth that of which are tackled with finesse Hoffman was known for. by Corbijn and his skilled actors. Hoffman is quietly unforgettable as a tubby, whiskey drinking, flask toting Bachmann, the once golden child of the German espionage world, now struggling to regain his reputation after an obliquely HAPPENINGS MUST SEE referred to past debacle. Sophia Pande Instinctively aligned with Bachmann’s underlying integrity, we struggle to understand if Issa Few other living actors are Karpov is who he says he is, an capable of doing the same. innocent in possession of a huge, A lesser known but particularly and running a team of operatives dirty fortune caught up in an commendable detail of Hoffman’s focused on sussing out possible ugly world of suspicion that now life is his intense involvement in terrorist threats through contacts surrounds almost every bearded theater – a result of his rigorous in the local Muslim community. Muslim, or a sophisticated training as athespian from NYU’s Joined by a strong and diverse terrorist with the worst of Tisch School of the Arts Graduate cast including an unknown intentions. Acting program and an unusual Grigoriy Dobrygin as Issa Karpov, As Bachman and Richter immersion for a Hollywood actor a quiet bearded young Chechen struggle to separate Karpov from figuring in the leading roles of refugee who enters Germany his money in an attempt to catch films like Capote (2005), and Doubt illegally; Rachel McAdams, a the real Al Qaeda sympathisers (2008) which, in my mind, may romantic comedy favourite who who funnel funds from Europe to have been forgettable without his departs from playing her usual the Middle East through effective KUMAR SHRESTHA/RSS nuanced performances. sweetself to play the ethical but but byzantine methods, we too With A Most Wanted Man, a cornered immigration lawyer, are caught up in a moral and DOUBLE CHECK: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Federal Affairs and Local Development Prakash Man Singh inspects Rani Pokhari prior to the SAARC Annabel Richter; Willem Dafoe quiet but stunning thriller directed ethical struggle, one that will summit on Tuesday. by Anton Corbijn and adapted plays Tommy Brue, a crooked but haunt us long after the final by Andrew Bovell from a John le kindly banker who once laundered searing scenes of this powerful, Carré novel of the same name, money for Issa’s violent Russian but deeply troubling film. we have Philip Seymour Hoffman father; and last but clearly not in his final great role as Günther least Robin Wright as the quiet nepalitimes.com Bachmann, a highly trained but iron willed Martha Sullivan, an  Trailer German spy based in Hamburg enigmatic American diplomatic

AYESHA SHAKYA SHOWSTOPPER: Former Miss Universe and Bollywood actress Sushmita Sen walks the ramp for the Classic Diamond Jewellery Fashion Show at Hotel Annapurna on Saturday.

EMBASSY OF INDIA, KATHMANDU CINE TALK: (R-L) Indian actors Seema Biswas and Sushmita Mukherjee with Abhay Kumar from the Indian embassy and Karishma Manandhar at the 21st edition of Voices at the Nepal Bharat Library on Monday.

LUKE PENDER THE PANELISTS: (L-R) Tshering Lama of Childreach Nepal, producer Jane Charles, director Jeffrey Brown, former regional director of UNIFEM South Asia Chandni Joshi, photographer Lisa Kristine and Sunita Dunwar of attend a panel discussion after a private screening of Brown’s Sold at Kumari Hall on Tuesday. 21 - 27 NOVEMBER 2014 #733 13

While the Gods Personal Were Sleeping A Journey Through Love and Rebellion in Nepal by Elizabeth Enslin Seal Press, 2014 anthropology Paperback, 312 pages

hile a graduate student in and gracious, Elizabeth is still considered and Ratauli. and a stirring democracy movement. anthropology at Stanford, Elizabeth culturally impure and is therefore not allowed She interviews women who join the Enslin’s academic background makes WEnslin meets fellow student Promod into the kitchen to cook rice. She feels her literacy classes initiated by her and the the narrative dry and observational, and she Parajuli from Nepal and falls in love. outsider status acutely, and often wonders Parajulis. Amma, Enslin’s mother-in- doesn’t intrude in person unless necessary Enslin had wanted to study African what she is doing there. Her anthropologist law, plays a central and inspiring role in which gives the book a somewhat academic culture, and had romanticised about working mind admonishes her for following her man questioning the traditional place women tone. It could have been more interesting there but romance takes her to Nepal instead. to this remote corner of the world. But it is are supposed to keep in society and family. for the lay reader if there was more personal She follows Parajuli to India researching as if her marriage, her life as a Brahmin wife, Enslin finds her academic interest veering reflections on the relationships within the education and the grassroots movement. daughter-in-law and mother are all extensions towards analysing how women organise, and family and community. Enslin has chosen They briefly visit Parajuli’s family in Nepal of an academic fieldtrip, the results of which the life stories of women rebels. to write more about Amma, and less about after which they return to the US, get married are documented in her book While the Gods Enslin’s pregnancy and her decision to her relationship and life with Promod. The and finish their studies. Were Sleeping. deliver at home forms a significant portion timeframe of the book is 1980s-90s, and They travel back to South Asia, and while Enslin is interested in why and how of While the Gods Were Sleeping. There are Nepal has changed dramatically since then. Promod goes to India to continue his research, women rebel at the local level. She complications with the delivery So, readers looking at more contemporary Enslin, pregnant with their first child, stays interviews Nepali women who dare and she is rushed to Bharatpur trends in gender relations, community back with Promod’s family in Nepal. She is to strike out and speak out, and REVIEW Hospital. Enslin wonders how activism, the role of mothers’ groups and not just a daughter-in-law; she is learning also women who are oppressed by many mothers in Nepal, or even female health volunteers in public health and experiencing Nepal’s Brahmin culture class, caste and tradition. She investigates Chitwan, have that option. awareness will be disappointed. up close and personal. As her sociological the cultural roots of domestic violence, the The book is divided into three parts: Enslin gives non-Nepalis a glimpse of the imagination takes over, you can almost see dowry system, child marriage and other a personal memoir about the early days real Nepal, and for Nepalis the outsider’s view Enslin taking notes about caste and kinship manifestations of patriarchy. She records after her marriage, the initial culture shock gives us a unique perspective about our own as her husband’s family goes about its daily local women’s songs and poems on poverty, of being in Nepal, and the challenges of an country, society and families, and how much chores in a remote Chitwan village. gender, inequality and political oppression aspiring anthropologist with the political things have changed in the past 25 years. Although her in-laws are welcoming and translates songs of defiance sung at Tij backdrop of the last days of the Sonia Awale

love bread. On any given day I had the multigrain foot long, I’d rather eat bread than rice, with a romesco spread, basil pesto Iwhich always comes as sounding dressing dribbled on my crunchy sacrilegious to my friends. Maybe vegetables, caramelised onions and it is something to do with having sundried tomatoes, chicken salami spent most of my childhood in and cheese sandwich. The romesco boarding school where one had sauce is a nut and pepper based to spend better half of the meal sauce that injects piquancy and life hunting out the weevils that were into the rest of the ingredients. It cooked alongside the rice- who is tasty, satisfying and very filling. had the time to chuck those nasty Also at Rs 499 it is an amazing little bugs out, right? Or who knows bargain because you can ask them what those nuns were thinking- that to cut it in two, share it with your it builds character, moral fortitude date and voila, you’ve probably or were maybe just trying to up just enjoyed one of the cheapest our protein intake. Whatever it may lunch dates to be had in town. be – it left me with a noncommittal I didn’t think it fair to base my attitude to rice. review on just the one sandwich so Bread on the other hand is I ordered the Orange and Blueberry the best. It goes wonderfully with panna cotta (Rs 160) which was everything. Or maybe it is just the light and decent- just ok. But fact that I love biting into a nice maybe I am to blame for I like my warm chunk of yeasty bun- the panna cotta thick and creamy and simplicity and uncomplicatedness this was more gelatinous than Baker’s Den PICS: RUBY TUESDAY of it providing comfort and succor anything. But I’ve been told that on even the worst kind of I-hate- simply torn apart and dipped into to sample those. Baker’s Den is in my their tiramisu (made only when myself days. a hot cup of chiya and quickly The bakery is large and neighbourhood and I’ve been a fresh, high quality mascarpone is My idea of heaven includes a slurped before it disintegrates and spacious and is minimalistic in loyal customer since it first opened available) is delicious, so there’s little bakery with shelves stocked sinks to the bottom of the cup. design- relying on lighting to its doors a few years ago. But I another reason for me to go and with loaves fresh from the bakers And that brings me to Baker’s Den. create the changing ambience as usually rush in; pick up a variety linger at their tables. oven-wholewheat, multigrain, The bakery is smack opposite the the day progresses. Cool clear of bread, patties and pastries- both Ruby Tuesday crusty, plaited, cheese topped, original BhatBhateni Supermarket and business-like during the savoury and sweet and rush out. whole grain, white sliced, unsliced, in Gairidhara and its shelves are day with all the light flooding in Rarely do I linger for a meal but How to get there: Baker’s Den is with poppy seeds, sugared, rustic always well-stocked with a variety from outside, in the evenings it this time I did and I think I may right opposite the original Bhat chunks perfect for dunking into of breads. They are also renowned changes itself into a warm yellow just have discovered my new Bhateni Supermarket gate in a bowl of hot minestrone soup or for their cakes, though I have yet lit cocoon. favourite sandwich joint. Gairidhara. 14 21 - 27 NOVEMBER 2014 #733 Three hundred metres to Everest n 1924, climbers Edward Norton single step would be impossible. Messner and Habeler in 1978 was and Howard Somervell, part This conclusion arose from the almost the exact as what Kellas Iof the second British-Everest maximum oxygen uptake which had predicted decades ago. Expedition which also included determines the level of fitness of Overpowering hypothermia George Mallory and Andrew Irvine, a person. However Messner and (cold temperatures) and hypoxia set on a mission to become the Habeler proved the calculations (lack of adequate oxygen) are wrong. other reasons why people thought There was however one Everest couldn’t be climbed. One little- known Scottish high can imagine how severely cold it altitude physiologist and climber, must be in the Everest region and Alexander Kellas, who thought what little protection against the otherwise. Based on his studies cold tweed jackets and hobnail DHANVANTARI and observations, Kellas went on boots (worn by climbers of the Buddha Basnyat, MD record to say that Everest could time) would provide. In addition, be climbed with supplemental supplemental oxygen equipment first to summit Everest. But due to The Britishers may have failed Habeler (pic) became the first oxygen. But that was not all. He of that time was very cumbersome exhaustion and breathlessness, the to summit Everest that day, but to reach the summit without went further and remarked that and difficult to use. Many of them duo had to turn back even though their ability to go that far without supplemental oxygen. climbing Everest may be possible were designed so that you could they were only 300 metres away proper equipment and gear, speaks Why did it take so long for even without supplemental only use them while resting. from the top. immensely of their strength, climbers to successfully climb the oxygen. Few believed him at the Norton and Somervell were The difficulty in breathing at endurance and mountaineering last 300 metres of time. In his famous treatise on A not only excellent climbers but such high altitudes is captured in skill. without supplemental oxygen? consideration of the Possibility of also outstanding human beings. many documentaries where the It took another 28 years for Many scientists of the day Ascending Mount Everest ( written Norton went on to become the excessive panting of the climber Everest to be summited for the believed it was impossible for a around 1912), Kellas notes that governor of Hong Kong, and forms the dominant noise in the first time in 1953 by Tenzing person to reach the top of Everest for the last 1000 ft of the Everest Somervell gave up a promising background. This panting is bad Norgay and Edmund Hillary. But, without bottled oxygen, as the climb, the ascent rate would be career as a surgeon in England to enough even with supplemental it was only in 1978 that Italians body would have reached its point around 300 ft per hour. In fact the become a medical missionary in oxygen. Reinhold Messner and Peter of exhaustion and even taking a rate of climb in the last 1000 ft by South India.

GIZMO by YANTRICK

that would put even Hollywood blockbusters scenery to cause some GTA-style destruction, to shame, Los Santos City was one of the the sheer amount of guns and explosives at your most stunning and convincing open-world disposal will only result in more fascination with The grand theft environments to have ever graced a video the game. he title that the next-generation gaming game. And, in its new higher-resolution For the first time in the GTA series, gamers console owners have been waiting for avatar, it is even more spectacular. have the option of playing from the perspective Thas finally arrived. Grand Theft Auto V Compared to the last-gen versions, the of the character they are controlling and that is (GTA V) is here and if you own a PS4 or an new GTA V is noticeably sharper; textures a good thing. Rather than the third-person view Xbox One or have a friend who has one, you resolutions have been bumped, surfaces that the previous GTA iterations have followed, can kiss the sunshine goodbye, well for at appear bumpier, and there are a raft of new playing the game in fi rst person mode breathes least a couple of days, because that’s just how particle, light, and lens eff ects. The attention new life into the game. If multiplayer online play good the game is. to details is amazing. Cruise down to the beach is your thing, then GTA V has got that covered too. While GTA V was already available on the in your stolen convertible and you can see the You can now wage war with real-life counterparts PS3 and Xbox 360 platforms, all that enhanced tiny sands whoosh by. Amazing! Drive around from around the globe. GTA V is available for computing and processing power on the PS4 in the rain for hours on end, marveling at the Rs 7,000. and the Xbox One gives the title a truly next beautifully rendered raindrops and puddles generation look and feel. on the ground. Bicycles, motorcycles, cars, Yantrick’s Verdict: Call in sick, cancel all Make your way through the fi ctional city motorboats, helicopters, planes- whatever your plans, warn your missus because of Los Santos to realise just what I am talking tickles your fancy- GTA V has got them all, GTA V will turn you into a gaming about. Boasting production values and budget and when you do finally stop admiring the zombie. 21 - 27 NOVEMBER 2014 #733 15 16 NATION 21 - 27 NOVEMBER 2014 #733

LUKE PENDER in NEPALGANJ

rakash Basnet joined the Royal Nepal Army in P1988 during the days of the monarchy. But by 2001, the national army was drawn into the conflict against Maoist guerrillas, and Basnet worked in the military’s intelligence unit. Till he left the army in 2004, Prakash saw his fair share of carnage. This was the period when the violence escalated with widespread human rights LUKE PENDER violations, torture, summary executions, and disappearances. During the war, many Maoist prisoners would be brought in for questioning at army bases. Prakash remembers caring for them. He would also preach to Preaching the them and often make friends with them, keeping in touch with those who survived even after the conflict ended eight years ago. Between 2001-2004 Prakash’s orders were to work undercover to gospel to guerrillas infiltrate Maoist units and to bring the information to the Army. However, by this time Basnet Christ in them, even while the commandment, ‘thou shalt not the Military and Police Christian had become a Christian and he war was still going on. kill’. Fellowship which is inspired by was appalled by the violence he None of the guerrillas Prakash “The Maoists would the line in Galatians Chapter 3:28: saw all around him. So instead of converted died during the war, sometimes ambush soldiers, and ‘There is no longer Jew or Gentile, gathering information, he would and they also tried to abstain from I had the chance to kill, too, but slave or free, male and female. For try to preach non-violence and violence during the conflict as a I never did,” Prakash recalls. He you are all one in Christ Jesus.’ spread the word of God among result of the Christian message. tried to talk his fellow-guerrillas Today, the fellowship has a the Maoist guerrillas he had Ex-soldiers build He says they told him: “You are out of killing as well. “I told membership of 500 retired and infiltrated. right, brother, war is bad.” them, killing would never fix the serving security personnel from “As a Christian, I felt it was peace by turning In 2004, Prakash retired from problem and would never bring across Nepal. Indra recalls that my duty to set an example to the Army and joined the Maoists unity among Nepalis,” he said. during the conflict there were people about peace, and about former enemies to and his triple life did present After the ceasefire, Prakash Maoists so fired up with the love the future,” Prakash said in an problems. He was an ex-soldier continued his work among of Jesus that they were going to interview in Nepalganj last week. follow the word of who was now in the guerrilla the Maoists with Pastor Indra the guerrilla camps to preach the He managed to convert about 15 army, but he was also a Christian Basnet, who also converted and Gospel. Maoists and put the faith of Jesus Jesus Christ who firmly believed in the retired from the Army to form Pastor Indra was a sergeant 21 - 27 NOVEMBER 2014 #733 NATION 17

THE WORD OF GOD: Pastor Indra Basnet (left) and Prakash Basnet both retired from the Army and converted to Christianity. Prakash went on to join the Maoists and convinced many guerrillas to believe in the gospel and the path of peace.

in the Royal Nepal Army from 1976 to 1996, the year that the conflict began in the mid- western mountains. He says the message from the Bible is still relevant because there are now longer no those who support the Maoist or the government. “We are all one now,” he says, “we are all brothers.” Four years ago, Pastor Indra held a ‘forgiveness conference’ which Prakash Basnet also attended with fellow-Maoists. “They came to forgive and ask for forgiveness on behalf of the Maoists, and I did the same on the Army’s behalf,” Indra recalls. Soon after, nearly 1,500 ex- guerrillas were integrated into the national army. Pastor Indra says this didn’t just happen due to political accommodation, but also because of divine intervention. DEEPAK GYAWALI / PEOPLE AFTER WAR “God answered our prayers with the integration,” Indra Kusuwaha was on the says. Maoist hit list, and the Both men look back at the guerrillas tried to kill him many horror of war and agree that From vigilantism times. In 2005, they massacred Nepalis should never have to 12 farmers in Bargadahawa go through such violence and of Nawalparasi, where they brutality again. Their only thought Kusuwaha’s group was concern is that although the to spiritualism having a meeting. people are at peace, the leaders Today, Kusuwaha has are still threatening to go back even converted his former to war. Murari Kusuwaha turns to God to atone for his violent past bodyguard, Om Prakash Asked what drew him to Gupta, to renounce violence. Christianity while he was in the DEEPAK GYAWALI “I don’t want to remember the admits, “but all that is over now. I Both are now vegetarians, Army, Prakash remembers that in NAWALPARASI past,” says Kusuwaha, emerging don’t want to remember it.” and spend hours everyday in his colleagues loved to party from morning prayers. “I used to Kusuwaha needs a lot of meditation and prayer. The and drink. “They had many bad e used to wear an be enveloped in darkness, now I prodding to recall his past. After walls of Kusuwaha’s house are habits, and one day a civilian ammunition belt around have seen the light.” his father and five relatives were festooned with images of Hindu came to our home and read Hhis neck, now he wears Kusuwaha was the leader of killed by a gang from India, deities. us from the bible. After that I a sacred thread. He used to a vigilante group that the Royal Murari armed himself to take Kusuwaha is building accepted God and started going carry a shotgun, now he carries Nepal Army set up in border revenge. He eventually tracked a temple in his village of to church.” a trident. He used to be a districts like Nawalparasi, paying down and killed his father’s Paklihawa near the Indian From that day on, Prakash vigilante, now he is a holy man. and training locals to hunt down killers. border and says he wants his says things changed for him, During the conflict, Murari Maoist guerrillas. Vigilantes He initially joined the former adversaries, the Maoists, and so did the priorities in Kusuwaha (pic) used to have a committed gross human rights Maoists, but was soon put off by to also follow the path of his life. “Before, my friends in nom de guerre of ‘Pahalman’, violations, killing many innocent their extortion of poor farmers spiritual enlightenment. both the Army and among the now he calls himself Sadhu people and pillaging villages. from his village. His band of Kusuwaha’s wife, Manju, Maoists wanted revenge and to Omkar Das. Instead of training Kusuwaha himself says he killed armed men then started chasing is happy with her husband’s kill. Afterwards, when I saw in villagers to be vigilantes, he now “many” Maoists. Maoists and were recruited by the transformation. She says: “He them a change of heart, I knew performs fire ceremonies for “I don’t know how many Army to operate in Kapilbastu, has given up violence, now he this would be my mission in peace. Maoists I killed,” Kusuwaha Rupandehi and Nawalparasi. is a good man.” life.” 18 FROM THE NEPALI PRESS 21 - 27 NOVEMBER 2014 #733 What was in it for us? Jhalak Subedi in Kantipur, habits. Many Nepalis stayed abroad and 15 November never came back extending the Nepali diaspora, those who did returned with new ideas. The soldiers also brought If World War I hadn’t happened, the back bad habits like cigarettes, cards world would have been diff erent today. and gambling, and alcohol addiction. In Russia, Lenin’s October Revolution The shortage of young men encouraged probably wouldn’t have happened, women to marry across caste and ethnic and the ideology of communism lines. wouldn’t have spread globally. If there But in hindsight, it is clear that Nepal Policeman: This hadn’t been a Soviet Union, Mao never learnt its lesson from World War I. is Modi’s route, you wouldn’t have been able to complete his We didn’t have any enemies in that war. cannot sit here. revolution. If there was no Mao, there There was no reason for us to fi ght in it. wouldn’t have been a Maoist armed Our national interest lay in preserving Beggar: Who will struggle in Nepal. The ideas perhaps our sovereignty, but our rulers took the sit here then? Our would be there, but history would have country to war to protect their own power. prime minister? unfolded diff erently. They served as middlemen for foreigners. The involvement of Nepali Gurkha Instead of setting up industries, soldiers in the British Army linked us manufacturing and jobs in our own to the war. On 24 April 2015, it will be country, they sent our young men to fi ght Batsayan in Kantipur, 200 years since the fi rst recruitment of YARD BY YARD: British Gurkha soldiers and die for someone else. This tradition

15 November Gurkhas by the British. One hundred take over a trench during the Battle of continues to this day. The ‘brave Gurkha’ years before World War I, Nepali Neuve Chapelle in France during World became a slogan for the country. In those QUOTE OF THE WEEK “ soldiers were already fi ghting for the War I. days Nepali men died for the British Army, British. It is estimated that there were now they toil in the Gulf. 200,000 Nepali young men in the British In 1923, in return for the help during In 1911, before the start of the war, The Chairman is busy playing politics. Army at that time – about 20 per cent the war, Britain signed a peace and King George V came to Nepal, and our of the hill population of Nepal at the friendship treaty, accepting Nepal as a rulers arranged an elaborate welcome “ time. Some 20,000 Nepali soldiers sovereign nation as well as providing with a hunting expedition. This is all NC leader Ram Chandra Paudel on PDCC Chairman died in that war. Many did not return to Rs 1 million annually which the Ranas very similar to the way we are preparing Baburam Bhattarai in Nagarik, 18 November Nepal, and statistics show a drastic and their descendants put into their own to welcome Narendra Modi. We are still fall in Nepal’s population between the pockets. trying to appease foreign powers, there two wars. Entire villages were without The war had an impact on Nepali hasn’t been much of a change in our people. Prime Minister Chandra society and economy as well. Families mentality. Sumshere also sent 16,000 troops to with sons killed in action got some cash. Jhalak Subedi is the author of Belayati India to replace the ones who went to Some 100,000 soldiers came back and Samrajyaka Nepali Mohara. the front. He also donated Rs 10 million brought back Indian currency worth Rs for the British war eff ort. The British 130 million in salaries – about the same gave Nepal one rifl e for each soldier, the amount as the annual budget at the nepalitimes.com country was therefore awash with guns. time. The price of property shot up. They  100 years of platitudes, #688 There were some benefi ts to Nepal. brought back English manners and eating Prachanda’s safe house No sacrifice Govinda Tandon of the Pashupati Development Narendra KC, pahilopost.com, 15 Novermber Trust in Annapurna Post, 17 November

During a recent visit to his party’s former headquarter in Rangsi, Many distortions have sullied the great Rukum, Prachanda appeared nostalgic. The house on the philosophy of tolerance, non-violence and foothills of Dadagaun, a Magar village, was where the Maoist humanity that is inherent in the Hindu religion. leader mapped out strategies for his revolution. Unfortunately, many superstitious rituals that “I commanded the whole war from here and it is this village have nothing to do with Hinduism have now that led the country towards democracy,” said Prachanda last come to be regarded as part of this great week. faith. Among the distortions of Hinduism is For years the Maoist moved their headquarters from place the practice of animal sacrifi ce. We think we to place, including across the border to India. But when top can earn divine merit by killing and sacrifi cing leaders including CP Gajurel and Mohan Baidya got arrested, to the gods innocent animals that trust us the party felt the need to provide their commander a safe house to protect them. Our conscience tells us it within the country. The responsibility fell onto Nanda Kishore is wrong, yet we continue with mass sacrifi ces of animals. No Hindu text or god and goddess Pun aka Comrade Pasang’s hands. RESETTLED: Jitu has ever asked for appeasement by sacrifi ce. Basnet at his shack in “I felt my village would be the safest place,” says Pasang who It is us selfi sh human beings who have the refugee camp in was a popular and skilled commander during the war. Pasang’s transformed the gods into blood-thirsty ogres. Beldange, Nepal (left), own home was only few houses away from the headquarter. The Gadhimai Festival of and with his students is starting on Monday, in the next ten days in America (top). there will be thousands of animals that will be slaughtered there. A thousand people have been hired to do the killing, tenders have been fl oated for the leather and meat. The Bhutan sacrifi ce is being driven by the leather industry mafi a, it has nothing to do with religion. The priest of the Gadimai Temple himself is against the sacrifi ces. So whose interest does this footballers in US blood-letting serve? Who benefi ts from turning a place of worship into a slaughterhouse? Gopal Gartaula in Himal house and a country – things Publicity about the sacrifi ces has tarnished Khabarpatrika, 16-22 November he didn’t have in the refugee Nepal’s image internationally. The following camp. In a happy coincidence, The house in Rangsi was attacked by the Nepal Army ten steps are necessary to immediately outlaw Basnet’s assistant coach in months later. By then, the Maoist had already moved the centre religious sacrifi ces: Jitu Basnet was born in Lapsibote Nashville is Purna Khawas, who to Gorigaun in Rangkot, acting on a tipoff. Bullet holes still The state should stop subsidising animal in southern Bhutan 34 years ago, is also a former refugee from riddle the walls of the house. sacrifi ce. and spent 18 years at the refugee Bhutan. As boys, the two played Because this is the place where the war gained momentum, Animal sacrifi ces at government buildings, camp in Beldange of Jhapa district. football barefoot in the muddy vehicles and aircraft should be stopped. and also where the peace process began, Prachanda said Rolpa He loved football, and got to play fields of Beldange in Nepal. Ban import of animals from India 15-20 was where he feels the most at home. He said he had come here in various clubs in eastern Nepal. The two have organised football days before festival to rejuvenate himself. He wants to turn the house into a ‘war But it was after he was resettled in matches in 35 cities in 22 states Ban transport of animals from other parts Tennessee in the United States five in the US. And every June, they museum’. of Nepal to Gadhimai years ago that he really blossomed also organise football matches On his trip, the Maoist leader travelled to historically Spread message against animal sacrifi ces significant places including Holeri, where the Maoists launched through mass media as a football player and coach. between Bhutanese teams in the their armed struggle on 13 February 1996, and Losewang, Government should proactively spread He got his referee license from US. Next June, they hope to have where in 2006 CPN UML leaders Bam Dev Gautam and Yuvraj the message that animal sacrifi ce is not the US Soccer Foundation three 40 teams competing and will Gyawali held talks with the Maoists and agreed on to go ahead religion years ago and regularly referees raise the $50,000 to organise it with the historic 12-point peace deal. He also travelled to games and coaches football teams from former refugees resettled in Ghartigaun where the last big battle took place with the army. in Nashville. He now has a car, the US. 21 - 27 NOVEMBER 2014 #733 OPINION 19 The foreign handlers BILASH RAI Federalism is just decentralised feudalism in which warlords will rule states

BIHARI K SHRESTHA future federal provinces will be However, when it comes to some even able to seat or unseat ‘internal affairs’, regional and dominated by the same warlords Nepal’s politics, some major them. international powers enjoy who want autonomy from international players are more Nepal’s rulers were beholden enormous influence over the y briefing the diplomatic Kathmandu to continue with directly implicated. Nepal’s to foreign powers, and they still current constitution-making community in Nepal the plunder. Federalism is just political parties need not are. Several recent books have process. Babout the status of decentralised feudalism. be accountable to the Nepali confirmed that the federalism Since they were so much a constitution drafting on 12 To add insult to injury, people because they know that, project was chaperoned by part of it, they can’t now say ‘it’s November, the government the entire approach to given our hopeless mimicry of foreign handlers through up to the Nepalis themselves’ to tried to draw the international federalisation is in the hands the Westminster model, Nepali the Maoists and Madhesi clean up the mess. They must community into some sort of of politicians conspicuously voters have no option but to parties. Some donors used their back a democratic constitution partnership in its exercise, and devoid of academic and elect the same politicians to inclusion portfolios to actively that devolves authority to put pressure on the opposition. intellectual capacity. Which power over and over again support NGOs, which have now the grassroots, and defer The ambassadors then is why they are always lying, by turns. But the leaders are become political parties pushing federalisation until an objective went into a huddle at the threatening each other, throwing genuinely afraid of foreign for ethnic federalism. study confirms that it will ensure office in tantrums and sulking. interlocutors, most of whom Whatever they may say a more inclusive and accelerated Pulchok in which the Given the history of their role are materially helpful to them, diplomatically about Nepal’s development. participants reportedly sought in getting us to their point, the the position of Nepal’s two international community cannot closest neighbours, India suddenly wash their hands and China, on the issue. off. Despite decades of foreign However, the diplomats seem aid, the country continues to to have been diplomatic suffer widespread poverty, about their viewpoints, and caste and ethnic discrimination, nothing tangible seems to have inequality, unemployment, come out of the event, proving poor health and education. A the point that a diplomat is a nouveau riche was fattened by person who thinks twice before creaming aid and wallowing in saying nothing. corruption. Meanwhile, the opposition However, thanks to donor composed of the UCPN(M) and support for human resource other 21 littler parties, have also development in government, gone running to the diplomatic Nepal in 1980s was able to community to ask for a meeting make two major innovations in to brief them on their stance. the forestry and health sectors The diplomats have therefore through devolution of authority effectively been catapulted to forest user groups and to the pedestal of being the mothers’ groups respectively. most effective arbiter in the Genuine decentralised decision- federalisation debate in Nepal. making helped Nepal achieve On federalisation, the its two biggest success stories: main stumbling block in the community forestry and progress constitution, they decided to in mother-infant survival. say nothing. The tragedy in all But the tragedy is that this, of course, is that federalism neither of these innovations was never a demand of the were attempted for replication Nepali people. It was imposed in the donors’ own programs. first by the Maoists for want of UNDP and DANIDA remain a better people-oriented agenda, the most notorious for their and then a section of Madhesi bid to outdo each other in leaders who seem to be striving appropriating the ownership to drive a wedge between the of Nepal’s decentralisation Madhesi people and the rest initiative. They inadvertently of the country. Both have been ended up vitiating the potent at a loss of words to explain role of user groups in the Local how federalism would benefit Governance Act of 1999 that Nepal’s underserved. has gone on to spawn rampant It is clear that we need to corruption in the local bodies address historical exclusion, but that we see today. 20 BACK SIDE 21 - 27 NOVEMBER 2014 #733 www.nepalitimes.com www.nepalitimes.com

PAST PRESENT FUTURE Just being SAARCASTIC DIWAKAR CHETTRI

omeone stop me right now should be honoured to be alive to before I get carried away witness it. Sand write another snide For us in the media, the Sharks’ column about South Asian regional 4Summit is a welcome respite cooperation. from the endless deadlock in the Hey son, Go on, restrain me. I do Constipational Political Dialogue come eat! not want to unleash on you and Consensual Committee unsuspecting folks another glowing (CPDCC). We can take our minds tribute to our shared history, off the political grandstanding for geography and biology. What? You a few days before we get back to mean you actually want me to go constitutional foreplay again. ahead and expound ad nauseum It looks like the Summit will and ipso facto on the SAARC Spirit Superstructure has blown away a 5coincide with splits in the Dash of Partnership? You don’t have quarter of our annual budget on and Cash, as the Maobadi convert regionalism coming out of your widening roads in the capital, at to Modibadi. ears? No kidding. All right, then, least it lifted a handful of Nepalis The country got to import 35 you asked for it. out of middle income status. 6Benzes for the Summit, which Lest our illustrious readers All this negativity stems from means there will be enough cars are labouring under the illusion our national propensity to see a dark for ministers when the cabinet is that we are complaining about cloud behind every silver lining, and expanded after SAARC. Come the suspension of civil liberties to always mistake the light at the We couldn’t organise bomb- during the Saarc-ass-tick Summit, end of the tunnel for an approaching 7proof limousines for the HOGs home for let me dispel that notion right here locomotive. Stop complaining, because politicians couldn’t and now. There is no gainsaying people, and enjoy the Snark agree on sharing kickbacks. By lunch. that as patriotic Nepalis, we feel Summit. Enjoy the well-lit dogless asking the Indians to loan us the no sacrifice is too great in order streets populated only by HOGs. limos and gift two choppers, we to impress foreign visitors even In order to put you all in a more prevented corruption big-time. though 2 billion roops to install positive frame of mind for next The real reason Nawaz Sharif is solar street lights and poking week, I have taken the trouble to list 8bringing his own car is because saplings into road dividers is a bit here 10 advantages of the SAARC he thinks the Indian BMWs will steep. Summit: be bugged. He is also bringing his As Nepalis we will willingly own breakfast cereal because he give up some of our civic freedoms Not since ’s doesn’t want to eat Made in India by desisting from dumping trash 1siege of Kathmandu in 1767 foodstuff. on our own doorsteps for three have the inhabitants of the Valley A dawn-to-dusk curfew days (we will dump it on someone experienced such excitement and 9 has been declared for 25- else’s doorstep). We also pledge to anticipation. 28 November, and may be give all public nose grooming till The government has asked all extended after the Summit if the further notice, but only if you can 2non-essential staff to leave the constitution deadlock continues. Wow! My get parliament to ratify the stricture city, only senior government leaders The problem with lack with a two-thirds majority. and Summit sherpas will be allowed 10of legroom at the summit mom just The Ass, being an ass, to stay in the capital, making this plenary venue at the Shitty Hall sent me is flummoxed about all the the second largest movement of has been solved by requiring cynicism and criticism about the people since the Smallpox Epidemic invitees to sit in the yoga position food via extraordinary efforts being made of 1847. Those who refuse to leave called ‘Foetus’ with knees pulled by the gobblement to organise this with be darted with tranquilizer up to their chins. Kathmandu- sms. historic summit. If the country has guns and radio collared before being based diplomats will have to to go into lockdown mode for the translocated to Chitwan. A decision sit on the steps in the aisles for whole of next week because of the on whether people will be allowed the duration of the arrival of the Heads of Government to return to Kathmandu will be opening ceremony (HOGs) with their Southasian taken at a later date. because of the lack of Official Wives (SOWs) so be This is the most earth-shaking seats. it. Who cares that the Ministry 3event in Kathmandu since the of Metaphysical Planning and Great Earthquake of 1934, and we The Ass

CDO Regd No 194/056/57 Lalitpur, Central Region Postal Regd. No 09/066/67