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The Smarter Entertainment Weekly 15 MAY 2014 25 h]i& 2071 Miss

Have you met Subin Limbu? This young woman will represent Nepal around the world for a full year.

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TOP 4 EVENTS

TOUR DE’ LUMBINI- PEDAL FOR PEACE 2014 This one’s for those who are glued to the TV every The 2014 edition of Fanta The Hidden Treasure Miss Nepal pageant saw Subin Limbu being time the Tour De’ France crowned the new Miss Nepal World, with Prinsha Shrestha and Sonie Rajbhandari as the first !is aired. Tour De’ Lumbini and second runner-ups respectively. If you somehow missed out on watching the pageant, – Pedal for Peace is a promotional cycle rally Fr!day brings to you an exclusive rundown of the Miss Nepal event, along with sneak peeks of organized jointly by Tour behind the scenes as well as post-coronation events. De’ Lumbini and World Page 13: Our detailed infographic shows what went down at the main event. Cyclist Foundation Nepal. pg.6 The event, which marks Page 14: An exclusive Hall of Frame of the event with red carpet moments and post- Buddha Jayanti, celebrates Nepal’s peace and prosperity in the coronation glitz. birthplace of the Buddha. Chakshu Malla, the event coordinator, says: “The rally will cover five of the UNESCO world heritage Page 15: We reveal what was heard backstage, and an exclusive Subarna Chhetri Interview. sites of Nepal – Bouddhanath, Pashupatinath, Basantapur, Swayambhunath, and Lumbini itself. This time World Cyclist Page 16: Get to know your new Miss Nepal: Subin Limbu. Pushkar Shah will also be riding with the participants.” 1Date: May 11 (Sunday) to 14 May (Wednesday) Page 18: Get to know your new Miss Nepal Earth, and Miss Nepal International. Time: 7:00 am onwards Venue: Rally starts at Boudha Page 20: We discover what Ishani Shrestha’s year as Miss Nepal was like. Contact: 9841729965/ 9841303867 Page 22: We find out what kind of year the winners will have. TUBORG MAHA JATRA Page 23: An open letter to Subin Limbu by Miss Nepal 2002 Malvika Subba. Plus, other Ever caught Madan Krishna Shrestha and Hari Bansha celebrities advise the new Miss Nepal. Acharya live in action? If not, you’ll soon be able to. Turbog, which has been behind successful events such as Bryan Adams - Live in Nepal, Kutumba playing for WHAT’S ON? Heritage, and the recently held Tuborg Stage - Let’s Get The Magic of MaHa jodi! Loud series, is all set to bring the beloved comedians In the past few years, Tuborg has successfully supported events such as Bryan back to the stage after a gap of seven years. “We wish to Adams - Live in Nepal, Kutumba playing for Heritage, Fete de ‘la Musique, and spread consciousness among the public about our societal cultural deterioration using satirical humor,” say the MaHa the recently held Tuborg Stage - Let’s Get Loud series. Now, the company is all jodi. The duo will be accompanied by actors Basundhara set to bring two of Nepal’s most beloved and respected comedians together on Bhusal, Rajaram Poudel, and Kiran KC, among others. stage after a seven-year hiatus. The Tuborg MaHa Jatra 2071 will see the return Date: 9 May – 22 May of Madan Krishna Shrestha and Hari Bansha Acharya, the MaHa jodi. “Through Venue: Nepal PragyaPratisthan (Nepal Academy the event, we wish to spread consciousness among the public about our societal Hall), Kamladi cultural deterioration using satirical humor,” state the duo. 2 A glimpse of the Tuborg Maha Jatra 2071: POSTILJONEN LIVE IN Calling themselves “nostalgic dreamers,” Postiljonen will Undoubtedly the most popular comedians this country has ever seen, the MaHa be performing for the first time in Nepal. The indie pop trio jodi has been entertaining the Nepali audience for the past three decades. from Scandanavia features Swedish multi-instrumentalists Sjörs and Holm, and Norwegian singer Mia Bøe. Their music Artists such as Narendra Kansakar, Basundhara Bhusal, Rajaram Poudel, Kiran is known to create a dreamy and nostalgic ambience. K.C., Shiva Hari Poudel, Dilip Raimajhi, Mohit Bansha Acharya, and Mallika Date: 9 May (Friday) Time: 7:30 pm onwards Karki will also be part of the show. Venue: House of Music, Thamel Ticket: Rs. 300 The Tuborg MaHa Jatra will be held from 9 to 22 May at Nepal Pragya Prat- ishtan in Kamaladi, Kathmandu. 3 GLIMPSES OF H.H. SRI SRI RAVI SHANKAR IN NEPAL Tickets are priced at Rs. 2000, Rs. 1000, Rs. 500, and Rs. 300. They will be The Art of Living in Nepal will be available at Nepal Academy Hall Gate, Kamaladi, Bricks Café, Kupondole, and celebrating the birthday of H.H. Sri Sri Big Mart (City Center, Lazimpat, Shantinagar, and Jhamsikhel). Ravi Shankar through a photo exhibition. Join the celebrations while viewing images of his life and times. Date: 13 May (Tuesday),Time: 4 pm Venue: Lazimpat

With events to the left and right, Fr!day makes it a little bit easier for you to choose events to check out this week and the next. Here are our top four picks.4 POST US: Email event details to [email protected] or call 5011571/ 5011639/ 5011730/ 5011731 for listings. Listings are free but inclusion is not guaranteed due to limited space.

Kickstart//Events 6

After the success of THE WET FETE Kathmandu on the Run: Date: 30 May (Friday) Tribute to Pink Floyd, the Time: 1 pm onwards till late organizers present another night. tribute, this time to rock Venue: The Vaishali Hotel, legends, Led Zeppelin. Like Thamel (BK’s Lane) Out & Ticket: Rs. 599 Inclusive Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin too has been exceedingly VIPER SHOT(Comp.drink) popular amongst Nepali music With high school board aficionados. Purple Haze Rock exams coming to an end, Bar will be hosting the three JustPartyInTime is hosting a pool that will be playing host About hour long event that will see unique themed pool party for to a barbecue every Saturday. around 18 Led Zep songs being the tired students. Besides Special meal packages will be covered by local musicians. a constant flow of music made every week exclusively for While the Floyd covers were courtesy DJ MAYUSH, DJ the event. performed by popular Thamel SONAM, DJ NORCHENN and band, Strings, Saujanya DJ SPLASH, the party will CULINARY WRITING WORKSHOP MUSIC & PARTIES Bhattarai, the managing also have a bubble machine, Date: 25 April director of the organizing flames stage, trampoline (Friday) to 12 team, says: “This time we have jump, vodka pong, viper shot, May (Monday) combined various musicians ice-cream parlor, and summer Time: 11:00 am FREE to form a band called Custard games, along with cash prizes onwards EVENT! Pie, which is also the name of of above NRs 5000/- and Venue: Alliance a popular Zeppelin song.” surprise gift hampers. Francais, Tripureshwor Contact: 4241163/ 4242832 Entry: Free Do you have a special recipe and a celebration of Clean from your grandmother that Up Nepal’s achievements so you want to save? Then join far. Bishal Shrestha, Jyovan the culinary writing workshop Bhuju and Atripta Band will be FOOD where students will be taught performing. the basics of writing cookbooks LOTUS LAND ORGANIC FARM AT FARMER’S MARKET AT THE so that they can record their SUMMIT HOTEL recipes for future generations. YELLOW HOUSE The classes will be the perfect Date: 11 May Date: 11 May starter for cooks who are (Sunday) & 14 (Sunday) looking to preserve their recipes May (Wednesday) Time: 9:30 am and secret ingredients. Time: 10:00 am FREE onwards FREE onwards EVENT! Venue: The EVENT! Venue: Summit Yellow House, HYATT’S SPECIAL BRUNCH ON Hotel, Jhamsikhel Jhamsikhel MOTHER’S DAY Contact: 5521810 Contact: 5553869, 5522078 Date: 11 May (Sunday) If you insist on having your Take a break on Sunday Time: 12:30 pm to 3:30 pm vegetables and fruits 100% and visit The Yellow House Venue: The Café, Hyatt Regency natural, then visit Summit Hotel for breakfast and groceries. Kathmandu USTAD RASHID KHAN IN NEPAL every Sunday and Wednesday The farmer’s market at the Price: 1800 plus tax per person Date: 23 May (Friday) when Lotus Land Organic Farm restaurant has local and organic The Nepali edition of Mother’s Time: 6 pm onwards opens its market. This is the products vended in stalls Day was celebrated recently, Venue: Nepal Academy Hall, Kamladi place to go to for all kinds of manned by locals as well as with mothers all over the country Ticket: Rs 1000, Rs 2000, Rs 3000 & Rs 5000 seasonable vegetables and foreigners. Apart from seasonal receiving royal treatments. Those Attention classical music lovers! U-Turn, together with classical fruits such as strawberries and and fresh vegetables and of you who were too busy or musicians Manoj Gautam and Pratap KC, are jointly organizing Ustad blueberries, the rare kiwi, along fruits, you can also get baked missed out on the celebrations Rashid Khan’s live show - Ushtad Rashid Khan – Live in Nepal. Ustad with organically nurtured meat goods, jam and honey here. now have a reason to smile. Rashid Khan is an Indian classical musician in the Hindustani music and fish. Local items such as Additionally, you can listen International Mother’s Day is tradition belonging to the Rampur-Sahaswan Gharana. He is also known organic pickles and lentils are to Hari Maharjan play while almost here and Hyatt Regency for his songs in films such as Jab We Met, My Name is Khan, Mausam popular with tourists. enjoying breakfast under a big will be hosting a special buffet and Issaq. While older classical music fanatics can experience the Entry Fee: Free jacaranda tree. There’s also the brunch on the occasion. So maestro’s well-known performances first hand, the newer converts can garden where your kids can run make your reservations and get a taste of his velvet voice and control over Ráagá. HAMRO NEPAL SAPHA NEPAL around while you soak in some spend some quality time with FUNDRAISING DINNER sun. your mother over brunch. Every Date: 10 May (Saturday) Entry Fee: Free mother present at the event will Nepali songs (including gazals), Time: 5:00 pm be given a complimentary box of with Shabnam Gurung and Venue: Cocina Mitho Cha, POOL BBQ chocolates; don’t forget to ask Dinesh Neupane. Join them for a Lazimpat Date: 10 May (Saturday) for it before you leave. perfect start to your weekend. Ticket: Rs. 800 Time: 11:00 am onwards Furthermore, known for their Spending a Saturday evening Venue: Hotel Annapurna, monthly food promotions, Hyatt DANCE-MANDU MUSIC FESTIVAL with dinner and live music is Durbarmarg Regency has also planned to Date: 17 May (Saturday) to 18 always fun. Doing the same Contact: 4221711 cater to your sweet tooth this May (Sunday) for a cause is even better. Summer is here and so is the month of May. Focusing on Time: 10:00 am onwards Join Clean Up Nepal’s first season of swimming. Keeping chocolate desserts, the kitchen Venue: Grand Norling Resort, fundraising event, which will that in mind, Hotel Annapurna has come up with delicious Gokarna, Kathmandu feature music, DJs, dance recently unveiled its large new treats that are made from Contact: 4910193 scratch (even the chocolate For people wanting to spend itself). Expect an array of the weekend dancing away chocolate desserts to choose comes the Dance-Mandu Music from, as well as interactive Festival, the first ever live/ stations that will serve desserts POSTILJONEN LIVE IN experimental/fusion music that are not on the regular KATHMANDU concept fest in Nepal. The menu. The items available music festival features a lineup Date: 9 May (Friday) during the promotion come in of more than 18 national and Time: 7:30 pm onwards three sections – the combination international DJs, along with Venue: House of Music, Thamel platter, the interactive stations, other forms of entertainment Ticket: Rs. 300 and from the display. The such as art and visual shows, combination platter includes fire shows, and jugglers. a chocolate crepe, chocolate MANNY’S UNPLUGGED scones, ice cream topped with Date: 9 May (Friday) ZEPPELIN TRIBUTE SHOW 2014 chocolate sauce, and whipped Time: 6:45 pm onwards Date: 7 June (Saturday) cream. The chocolate crepe Venue: Manny’s Eateries & Bar, Time: 3:00 pm onwards makes another appearance in Jawalakhel Venue: Purple Haze Rock Bar, 3RD ITALIAN FOOD & FILM FESTIVAL the interactive station, served Fans of semi-classical and soft Thamel Date: 9 April (Wednesday) to 14 May (Wednesday) with Nutella and ice cream. music, rejoice! On Fridays, 6:45 Contact: 9843664132/ Time: 6:00 pm onwards Some items available on display pm onwards, Manny’s Eateries 9804946107 Venue: Black Pepper Café and Pub, Jawlakhel are the hazelnut chocolate & Bar will be hosting semi- Ticket: Rs. 300 (Pre Sales) and Ticket: Rs. 950 (inclusive of Italian dinner) Rs. 100 and RS. 150 swiss roll, chocolate tart, and classical soft Hindustani and Rs. 500 (Door Sales) (exclusive of dinner, only movie watching) chocolate truffle. 7

OUTDOORS Ever wondered about different perspectives of TOUR DE’ LUMBINI- individuals towards life and PEDAL FOR PEACE art? Life is Flow will give you Date: May 11 that opportunity to learn. The (Sunday) to 14 May photo exhibit showcases the (Wednesday) insights of Susanna Ferran, a Time: 7:00 am photographer from Andorra, onwards and Frederic Hoffman, a Venue: Rally starts poet from Paris and their at Boudha daily meditations along with EXPLORE PHOTOGRAPHY WITH SCC Contact: principles they learned from Date: 8 May (Friday) to 19 May (Tuesday) 9841729965/ ancient teachings. “We Time: 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM 9841303867 began a spiritual and artistic Venue: SCC Kupondol, Lalitpur (way to Bagmati River) This one’s for those quest through , Nepal Ticket: Rs. 6000 only who are glued to and Thailand and discovered Contact: 5546705 / 9840061192 the TV every time oriental philosophies Photography beginners and enthusiasts now have the opportunity the Tour De’ France and holistic therapies during to develop their photography skills with the photography workshop. is aired. Tour De’ the journey,” state the duo. The workshop is designed to foster the photography skills of the Lumbini – Pedal for The exhibition shows the participants more creatively, no matter which background and Peace is a promotional cycle rally organized jointly by Tour De’ Lumbini deep connection of their profession they come from. The participants get to learn the and World Cyclist Foundation Nepal. The event, which marks Buddha experiences with nature. fundamentals of photography, how to operate a digital camera in Jayanti, celebrates Nepal’s peace and prosperity in the birthplace of different modes, how to see the world like a photographer, and learn the Buddha. Chakshu Malla, the event coordinator, says: “The rally will CZECH CASTLES the “field skills” of outdoor photography. Daily photo assignments cover five of the UNESCO world heritage sites of Nepal – Bouddhanath, Date: 9 April (Wednesday) to and photo review sessions are an integral part of the workshop. Pashupatinath, Basantapur, Swayambhunath, and Lumbini itself. 25 May (Sunday) The interaction sessions will not only allow participants to explore This time World Cyclist Pushkar Shah will also be riding with the Time: 5:00 pm onwards the world of image making but also give them the knowledge and participants.” The route this year looks like this: Venue: Siddhartha opportunity to go beyond the limits of the discipline. Hurry up to book Day 1: Boudha – Pashupatinath – Swyambhunath – Kurintar( Night Art Gallery, a seat for yourself as SCC will take only 12 participants. Stay), BabarmahalRevistied, Day 2: Kurintar – Chormara – Arunkhola(night stay), Kathmandu Day 3: Arunkhola – Daunne – bhairhawa (night stay), Day4: Bhairahawa – Lumbini (candle lighting, sightseeing of pilgrimage sites in Lumbini and Kapilvastu). LIVE WIRE

SPORTS CARNIVAL equipment. From pro athletes to CASA DE CASS MADHUSALA Date: 8 May (Friday) to 10 coaches to equipment providers, Friday: 9 May Every Friday till Wednesday May (Sunday) you can meet anyone from the Franz Rodhe Uday & Sotang live with Time: 10 A.M - 6 P.M given sporting activities. The list (Singer from Germany) Jeewan Kalapremi and Nava Venue: Dasarath Rangashala, of activities include: KhelSansar If you’ve ever dreamt of Ratna (band) Covered Hall Area Best Player of the Year, wandering alongside old Saturday 10 May The first ever multi-sport Wrestling Zone CHAOS Match, castles and chateaux and Ramshakle Blues: Desmond and Time: 7:15-11:30 pm exhibition is all set to take place Sports Fashion Show, Karate/ going back in time, then Marcus (country blues) Location: Durbar Marg at Dasarath Rangashala where Judu/Taekwondo/Boxing Fights, visit the Czech Castles Contact: 4223613 you can get a chance to meet, motorcycle stunts, a sports photo exhibition. Siddhartha Art Every Wednesday and even better, play with your exhibition, and more. The event Gallery’s three floors promise Others (vocals: Jazz quartets) TAMAS LAYA favorite athletes. Whether you is organized by Khelsansar.com to transport you to the Czech Friday: 9 May (Naxal) are an amateur or just interested in association with Nepal Karate regions of Bohemia and Time: 6:30pm to 9:00pm Accoustix in sports, this event will be your Federation and managed by Moravia with illustrations Location: Pulchowk (Harihar one stop destination to learn, Rise Global and Shiva Shankar and photographs of castles Bhawan) Monday: 12 May (Naxal) play and even shop for sports Entertainment. and chateaux along with Contact: 5010100 Open Night with Jovan information on history, architecture and art. From EMBASSY RESTRO & BAR Friday: 9 May (Thamel) UNESCO World Heritage Thursday: 8 May Electronic music Sites like Ceský Krumlov Salsa by Riyaz Shrestha and Kutná Hora to the Time: 7:00-10:00pm ART & THEATER iconic Prague Castle, the Friday: 9 May Contact: 4414395 37 exhibits are prepared by Prayash (band) 8 DEGREES BY WINDS AND TIDES the National of the . Sunday (11 May), Monday (12 Friday 9 May Date: 24 April (Thursday) to May), Tuesday (13 May) Loadshedding (band) 12 May (Monday) TUBORG MAHA JATRA Piano light by Pema Time: 11:00 am onwards Date: 9 May (Friday) – 22 Time: 7:00pm onwards Venue: Alliance Francaise May (Tuesday) Time: 6:30pm onwards Location: Jhamsikhel Kathmandu, Teku, Venue: Nepal Pragya Location: Lazimpat Contact: 5543740 Kathmandu Pratisthan, Kamladi Contact: 4424040 Contact: 4241163/ Ever caught Madan Krishna MANNY’S EATERIES 4242832 Shrestha and Hari Bansha TAMARIND RESTRO AND BAR Every Friday If you visited the 4th Acharya live in action? If Thursday (8 May), Sunday (11 Shabnam Gurung & Dinesh International Nepal Tattoo not, you’ll soon be able to. May) and Monday (12 May) Neupane Convention back in April Turbog, which has been Live piano by Sunil Singh (Soft Hidustani and Nepali then you've probably heard behind successful events music along with ghazals) about Saint Montolov from such as Bryan Adams - Live Friday: 9 May France. If you loved his in Nepal, Kutumba playing Dharmendra Sewan and Bittu Time: 6:45pm to 10:30pm work, here’s some great news for Heritage, and the recently Location: Ekantakuna for you – he is showcasing held Tuborg Stage - Let’s Wednesday: 14 May Contact: 015536919 his artwork at Alliance Get Loud series, is all set to Hemanta Rana (ladies night) Francaise Kathmandu for bring the beloved comedians BOURBON LOUNGE 19 days. More good news? GLIMPSES OF H.H. SRI SRI RAVI back to the stage after a gap Time: 7:00pm to 10:00pm Friday: 9 May You can also get a tattoo SHANKAR IN NEPAL of seven years. “We wish Location: Jhamsikhel Soultease from him. For that you must Date: 13 May (Tuesday) to spread consciousness Contact: 5522626 contact the artist in advance Time: 4 pm among the public about our Tuesday: 13 May at [email protected]. Venue: Lazimpat societal cultural deterioration JAZZ UPSTAIRS Sign (Sonam and Sunny) The Art of Living in Nepal will using satirical humor,” say Wednesday: 14 May be celebrating the birthday LIFE IS FLOW the MaHa jodi. The duo will Monsix (Gypsy Jazz) Wednesday: 14 May of H.H. Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Date: 24 April (Thursday) to be accompanied by actors Ladies night with Accoustix through a photo exhibition. Join 22 May (Thursday) Basundhara Bhusal, Rajaram Time: 7:00pm onwards Time: 7:30pm onwards the celebrations while viewing Time: 6:00 pm onwards Poudel, and Kiran KC, Location: Lazimpat Location: Lal Durbar Marg images of his life and times. Venue: Image Ark, Patan among others. Contact: 4416983 Contact: 4441703 Kickstart//Hall Of Frame 8

CARIAA LAUNCHED 30 April, Soaltee Crowne Plaza The Asia Regional Launch of the Collaborative Adaptation Research Initiative in Africa and Asia (CARIAA) was successfully held on at the 8th Conference on Community Based Adaptation. The regional launch took place on the final day of the weeklong conference during an official press meet. Headed by the International Development Hall of Frame Research Centre (IDRC), and the Department for International Development (DFID), UK, four separate research consortia for the three types of hot-spot regions (semi-arid, deltas, and river basins) will conduct and expand research on these vulnerable sites focusing on environmental issues, climate change adaptation techniques, migration, gender, and food security in these regions.

Jivan Bhattarai Narayan Agasti Yunmi Seo Jinsung Oh Mina lohani

KUDOS TO MITINI! 3 May – 4 May, S.E.A Center Social Enterprise Activating Center Abid Qaiyum Suleri Dominique Charron celebrated its first anniversary and showcased its work in collaboration with Bihani Social Venture. Many small outlets displayed their products and shared a platform to know each other better. Jiban Shanti Bhattarai’s photo exhibition at Mitini Swojan Santoshi Shakya Café during the event unveiled life Newa Rana Dolma in Karnali, displaying perseverance at its core and the disparity between rural and urban Nepal.

Murali K S Sumetee Pahwa Gajjar

Satya Mohan Joshi Jirapan Sandhya Regmi Sudonich Bhadra Ghale Mashfiqus Salehin Philippus Wester

MY MOTHERLAND NEPAL 3 May, Nepal Arts Council Poet and artist Sandhya Regmi recently hosted her eight solo painting exhibition at Nepal Arts Council in Baber Mahal. Titled My Motherland Nepal - Gloriously “They look better than Stretched Admist the Endless Sky, the exhibit is a series of illustrations on the great Himalayas. “The the real Himalayas” paintings signify the measures of deep expressions of - Tulasi Diwas on my extreme emotional attachment to my nation and its soil,” said Regmi. The artist also presented poems Sandhya Regmi’s solo that she had penned whilst living abroad. Regmi has traveled extensively and has also had solo exhibitions in exhibition Ramesh Khanal Momila Joshi Greta Rana Singapore, as well as consecutive art exhibitions from 2010-13 in . 9

JUST DANCE! CARIAA LAUNCHED 29 April, Bajra Hotel 30 April, Soaltee Crowne Plaza The International Dance Day was observed The Asia Regional Launch of the Collaborative Adaptation Research in traditional fashion in an exclusive event Initiative in Africa and Asia (CARIAA) was successfully held on at organized by Nepal Dance Alliance. The day the 8th Conference on Community Based Adaptation. The regional of dance was celebrated in the form of various launch took place on the final day of the weeklong conference during performances dedicated to Loka Nritya or an official press meet. Headed by the International Development the dance of the realms. In an event that Research Centre (IDRC), Canada and the Department for International lasted just over an hour and a half, various Development (DFID), UK, four separate research consortia for the choreographers showcased their works to three types of hot-spot regions (semi-arid, deltas, and river basins) entertain a crowd filled with pre-eminent will conduct and expand research on these vulnerable sites focusing dancers and dance directors. Sabina Lahmann Ludmilla Hungerhuber on environmental issues, climate change adaptation techniques, In what was only its second annual Narayan Devi Pradhan Ragini Upadhyaya migration, gender, and food security in these regions. celebration, Nritya Sahakarya Nepal (Nepal Radhe Shyam Pradhan Dance Alliance) put together a total of five acts that ranged from Ghost, Insect, and Monkey dances to Tharu folk and finally the God and Demigod Dance.

“Our main focus is on the misinterpretation and mistranslation of the word ‘Loka’ (realm). The performances depict life in these

realms – Heaven, Earth, and the Rosario Norley Elaine Castro Smith Shiva Hari Shrestha Netherworld.” - Rajendra Shrestha.

Shakti Gauchan

Sumeet Shrestha Amit Shrestha Subendu Pandey Haseem Ansari Naresh Budhayer Amir Akhter

Nizamudeen Pawan Shrestha Devendra Navin Singh Prem Tamang Ansari Sompal Kami Sumare JAGDAMBA: STEELED VERSATILITY 28 April, Hotel Annapurna Jagdamba Steels Pvt. Ltd, a Shankar Group company, presented its recent achievements and future prospects at an event called Milestone. Shahil Agrawal, Joint MD of Shankar Group, unveiled the ISI certification received for the Jagdamba TMT Rebars, Jagdamba RMS, Cut and Bend Products, the first and only one of its kind in Nepal. The event concluded with the unveiling of Jagdamba Giants, a NPL cricket team owned by the company and group. The team logo, , and the video of their anthem were unveiled jointly by Shakti Gauchan, captain of Jagdamba Giants, coach Navin Singh, and Shahil Agrawal, Joint MD of Shankar Yama Buddha Nima Rumba Group. The anthem features singer Nima Rumba and rapper Yama Buddha. Kickstart//Week That Was 10

tions, civil society, religious of NRS 75 billion over the leaders and from academia to next 36 years, equivalent to talk about the issue, experi- 4 percent of Nepal’s current WEEK THAT WAS ences and identify knowledge GDP. (Astha Joshi) gaps in order to come up with a national strategy to INDOOR CRICKET IS address the problem. At the FINALLY HERE event, Dinesh HariAdhikari, Kathmandu, May 4 Secretary, MoWCSM said: “Child marriage is not just a After the remarkable social problem; it is a viola- performance of the Nepali tion of human rights. It is a cricket team in the T-20 crime.” He also highlighted World Cup this year, the game has been gaining LET A CHILD BE A CHILD the need for a “comprehen- sive national strategy” which popularity among kids Kathmandu, April 21 could address the diverse and youth alike. Now, The Nepal Government’s Min- factors that affect child with monsoon arriving, 12 DAYS OF GOLD istry of Women, Children and marriage in Nepal. “Child the opening of an indoor cricket arena has come as Kathmandu, April 29 Social Welfare ( MoWCSW) in marriage is not confined to collaboration with UNICEF, any one sector, and it does a blessing. Royal Indoor Apala, the House of Exquisite Jewels’ 12-day exhibition that Girls not Brides and UNFPA, not affect only women and Cricket, Nepal’s first indoor showcased the fine craftsmanship of Thewa-Sozo jewelry hosted a Stakeholder Interac- children but men and boys cricket arena, was recently ended on 29 April. Thewa-Sozo jewelries are not simple tion on the National Strategy to too,” said Hanaa Singer, inaugurated by Prithu ornaments but pure manifestations of art, whose origins can End Child Marriage. According UNICEF Representative. The Baskota, a batsmen in the be traced to the Mughal era of India. Thewa etymologically to National statistics, 3 out of program not only highlighted national cricket team. Indoor comes from the Devnagiri script that means “setting” in the 10 girls aged 15-19 are mar- the negative effect on girl’s cricket follows the basic rules local Rajasthani dialect. Thewa therefore means “the setting ried while 4 out of 10 Nepali education, health, and of regular cricket, but with of gold in glass.” Each piece of Thewa-Sozo is handcrafted women are married before they development but also talked added twists. To find out and takes several days or weeks to finish. The making of turn 18. The event brought about the economic implica- more, visit this new facility Thewa-Sozo is an art that involves fusing 23-karat gold with together stakeholders from the tion of child marriage if it at Golfutar and make sure to multicolored glass. The special glittering effects on the glass government sector, interna- continues. Economic analysis hit those super boundaries. are achieved via a special treatment process that highlights tional and national organiza- by UNICEF projected a loss (Samyak Moktan) the intricate gold work. The exhibition was attended by people of all ages. The handworks and designs received tremendous appreciation and the reasonable prices resulted in smiling and happy faces. There appears to be huge potential for Thewa-Sozo designer jewelry in Nepal if the reaction of the attendees is anything to go by. (ECS Media)

11TH GENERATION COROLLEAN REVOLUTION Kathmandu, 27 April – 4 May The world’s best selling car, Toyota Corolla, has always been associated with reliability and practicality. However, the 11th generation of the sedan takes a giant leap from the previous ones by shifting the focus towards performance and design. The new Corolla was introduced in Nepal by United Traders Syndicate Pvt. Ltd on 27 April. The new car measures 4,620 millimetres long, making it 75mm longer than its predeces- sor. The wheelbase of the new version also stretches 100mm longer than the old one. It also has a reduced height giving it a sportier look. Equipped with double barrel headlamps with FIRST EVER PUBLIC BICYCLE STAND LED lamps, a new curve chrome grille, a low bonnet and a Kathmandu, April 30 pronounced rear bumper, the new Corolla appears bolder than any of its predecessors. Durbar Marg saw the inauguration of the first ever public bicycle stand in Kathmandu. The stand, The new Corolla is equipped with a 1.6 litre Dual VVT-i resembling the shape of a car with a sign that reads 1 car = 10 cycles, is part of Cycle City Network Petrol engine with a six-speed manual gearbox. The engine Nepal’s Kathmandu Cycle City 2020 (KCC 2020) campaign. Cycle City Network Nepal is a non- produces a maximum output of 90kW at 6000 rpm and a maxi- profit youth network, dedicated to a healthy life style and the improvement of the environment in mum torque of 154 Nm at 5,200 rpm. The car is equipped Kathmandu. According to the organizers, despite the number of people opting to ride cycles in with Mcpherson Strut front suspension and Torsion Beam with Kathmandu, it is very difficult to find parking space. Installing cycle stands in public places would stabilizer as rear suspension. Braking is provided by all-wheel increase the morale of the cyclists and encourage them to “Ride with Pride.” With the increasing disc brakes: ventilated front and rear discs. Together with fea- congestion of Kathmandu’s streets, the campaign also wants to deliver the message of cycles being tures like electric power steering, Hill Start Assist Control, Anti- the future for sustainable urban transportation to the general public and policy makers. Cycle City lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution Network Nepal is looking forward to installing cycle stands in heritage sites such as Patan Durbar (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Traction Control (TRC) and Vehicle Square and Basantapur Durbar Square, along with garnering support from the youth in promoting Stability Control (VSC), the new Corolla makes for a more ef- their aim of making Kathmandu a cycle friendly city by 2020. (ECS MEDIA) ficient and safer ride. (Prabal Shrestha) 11

THE STORY HUNTERS Kathmandu, May 1 With each step into the BAZAAR future we seem to be losing our past and, along with it, important folklores and tales that talk about our existence and the evolution of our society. Acoustic Traditional, an NGO based in Darjeel- ing has been hunting for stories that make up our identities SCORE THE REAL GOAL for 15 years now. Stories on the Verge, a project by Acoustic Real Fruit Juice, Nepal’s largest selling fruit Traditional that aims to revive such tales, was launched during juice brand, has been launching consumer HISENSE AT SHERPA MALL! a press meet. engagement campaigns every summer to cre- Navin Distributors, the sole authorized ate excitement amongst its consumers. On 30 distributer of Hisense products in Nepal, At the launch, Kwoico Salil Mukhiya, the founder of Acous- April, Real’s Score the Real Goal campaign recently inaugurated its Hisense Showroom at tic Traditional, said: “When a community dies, the world loses came to an end where the 25 highest SMS Sherpa Mall in Durbar Marg. The showroom a part of its heritage. Protecting such heritages is therefore eve- senders won Adidas footballs autographed currently has televisions, refrigerators, AC’s, ryone’s responsibility.” Vee Production, Nirbhaya Foundation, by Sagar Thapa, the captain of the national and washing machines. Plans to add vacuum and the National Foundation for Development of Indigenous football team. In order to keep the excite- cleaners and other electronic products are on. Nationalities are also supporting the program. The project will ment alive, a new campaign called Game 2 With the addition of this exclusive showroom be visiting schools and colleges for oral story sessions in the was launched on 1 May. The rule of Game in a prime location, Navin Distributors is days to come. (Srizu Bajracharya) 2 is the same as Game 1 with one needing expecting customers to show an added interest to identify the real ball amongst the 11 ones in Hisense’s products and their features. featured in the ad and messaging the REAL ball number to 5002.

NEW IN PANASONIC Triveni Byapar Co., the authorized importer and distributor of Panasonic Appliances for Nepal, has launched the Panasonic HC- MDH2 Video Camera. The Japan-made cam- era is best suited for shooting events, parties, or shows. The HC-MDH2, which shoots in full HD, offers a powerful zooming performance and comes with greater advanced shoot- 40” IN NEPAL ing performance, design, and operability. It Navin Distributors, the sole distributor of integrates a variety of functions that adds Hisense products in Nepal, has introduced its fun to videography, which includes manual new 40” LED TV in the Nepali market. The focusing ring and 28mm wide-angle lens in a TV comes with a HD display that provides a lightweight body and easy to use LCD layout. life-like viewing experience. Priced at Rs. 67, Furthermore, the all-new Panasonic MDH2 of- 490 (incl. VAT), the TV comes loaded with fers superior professional recording capability, features such as HDMI support, USB movie an ergonomic design, and simultaneous/relay integration, and a thin border that makes the recording system on dual memory that makes TV look very stylish and your room that much BOOT CAMP FOR IDEAS recording a breeze. better. Kathmandu, May 5 D.A.O. LALITPUR REGD. NO.77-066/67 ECS MEDIA PVT. LTD, KUPONDOLE, LALITPUR, NEPAL. 5011571. Rec@nnect, an initiative taken by CRDF Global and the U.S. NO. 219 8 MAY 2014

Department of State, seeks to empower entrepreneurship by Publisher: ECS MEDIA PVT. LTD. The Smarter Entertainment Weekly guiding new startups in South and Central Asia. This year, they Editor: SUNIL RAJ SHRESTHA Sub-Editor: SUJAN G.AMATYA Director, Editorial & Marketing: NRIPENDRA KARMACHARYA Copy Editor: VISHAL RAI provided mentorship to 38 entrepreneurs in Kathmandu via Sr. Manager, Editorial & Marketing: SUDEEP SHAKYA Editorial Manager: UTSAV SHAKYA Editorial Co-ordinator: SAMYAK MOKTAN, ASTHA JOSHI the Institute of Management and Microsoft Innovation Center Legal Advisor: HIRA REGMI In-house writers: ASHMITA RIJAL, GIRISH SUBEDI Design Executive: SUNIL MAHARJAN Nepal at the Rec@nnect Regional Boot Camp. The camp will Assistant Design Executive: RABI MAHARJAN Design Assistants: NARAYAN MAHARJAN, SUDIP MAHARJAN Color Separation & Printed at: be helping entrepreneurs accelerate the best startups to get Manager, Photography: DASH B. MAHARJAN WordScape The Printer Pvt. Ltd. a global visibility. On 7 May, the Rec@nnect Regional Boot Bhaisepati, Lalitpur Assistant Manager, Photography: HARI MAHARJAN 5548861, 5552335 Photographers: PRAJWAL MAHARJAN, RABINDRA PRAJAPATI, Camp will celebrate a demo day where the top 10 startups Distributor: Kasthamandap UMESH BASNET, YOGENDRA MAHARJAN, NIRAJ MAHARJAN, Distribution Pvt. Ltd. 424.7241 ASHMIN MAHARJAN among the 38 participating entrepreneurs will pitch their Business Development Head: ANGIRAS MANANDHAR DISCLAIMER Assistant Manager, Business Development: SACHIN TAMRAKAR venture ideas. These ten startups will receive feedback from Details of the event listings are accurate as per information received before the date the Sr. Executive, Business Development: NIRBHEEK SUBEDI weekly goes for printing. Fr!day is not responsible for any changes. a panel of international venture capitalists, angel investors, Columnists are entitled to their own views and opinions. They do not necessarily Ad Enquiries: [email protected] and accomplished entrepreneurs. The winning startup will be reflect the views and opinions of ECS Media and the organizaton cannot be held liable Sr. Executive, Production & Distribution: BIKRAM SHRESTHA for the same. Readers are encouraged to write to us at [email protected] Subscription & Distribution Coordinator: SUJAN SHRESTHA awarded US$3,000, while the second and third runner-up will Our sister publications Official Digital Marketing Partner - ADS MARKET PVT. LTD [4218069] www..com/fridayweekly be awarded with an iPad and iPad mini. (Prabal Shrestha) CLASSIFIED

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The Smarter Entertainment Weekly EVERY THURSDAY Issue 220 | 15 May 2014 enterta nment Entering stage Barnan Miss Best Complexion & Berger Miss Talent & from right Miss Beauty with Purpose Republica Fanta Miss Bubbly Prinsha Shrestha Lakpa Wangmo Tamang ROUND 1 Priyanka Jha Subin Limbu Grishma Basnet Ethnic outfits designed by SABAH Nepal ! Entering stage from Varsha Rai Neha Bajaj Priyanka Bhandari Namita Gurung Honda Miss Stylish & left Hyundai Miss Friendship Ganapati Miss Photogenic Sonie Rajbhandari Sitoshna Ban Sarala Nepal Rashmita Maharjan Rajnita Bhetwal Richa Bhattarai

A Spanish dance called Flamenco performed by Maradee de Guzman Sulux Miss Punctuality Maya Saloon Miss Beautiful Hair Aastha Pokharel Nanglo Miss Personality Alisha Kunwar Rashmi Adhikari Prananya K.C. The true ROUND 2 essence of humanity is to Casual wear designed be human to by the brother-sister all animals. duo of Antee and Ajay Gurung Alisha Kunwar Sitoshna Ban Aastha Pokharel Sonie Rajbhandari

Neha Bajaj I would express my gratitude to all the Prinsha Shrestha people who have given me good advice and constructive criticism. Subin Limbu Varsha Rai Women can learn to be In order to do ordinary patient and not be too things in an extraordinary emotional. way, Miss Nepal does not Rashmita Maharjan Prananya K.C. belong to only her friends and family, she belongs Suppose you win tonight, how will Performance to everybody. you help plan and mobilize divergent by the cast of the Nepalese youth generate income film,Mukhauta opportunities within Nepal? They are helping as well as ROUND 3 hurting Elegant gowns society, so our children designed by the Gen (Retd) should be Prananya K.C. Aastha Pokharel Sonie Rajbhandari Subin Limbu Prinsha Shrestha Rookmangud brother-sister duo of taught to use Katawal Antee and Ajay Gurung social media responsibly. Winning answer: Nepal is a goldmine. We should be able to harness our resources, whether its nature, water or intelligence.

To the new Miss Nepal, believe in yourself or no I think I am more one else will! nervous than these girls!

Miss Nepal International 2014 Miss Nepal Earth 2014 Miss Nepal World 2014 Sonie Rajbhandari Prinsha Shrestha Subin Limbu Alok Thapa Ishani Shrestha Miss Nepal 2014 14

Aastha Pokharel Ranjita Bhetwal Varsha Rai Ishani Shrestha Mukta Shrestha Shrijana Jyoti Rashmi Adhikari

May 2 – May 3, Nepal Army Officers Club & Radisson Hotel The Miss Nepal event began with 19 beautiful contestants walking on the stage flaunting their custom made dhaka-gowns until only the three finalists remained. The evening was marked by stellar performances by the cast of the film Mukhauta who danced to the tunes of the upcoming movie. Later, the annual coronation dinner at the Radisson Hotel, began with a red carpet moment where the Suhrid Jyoti Shivanee Basnyat newly crowned winners posed with just about everyone until the official cake was cut by THT Lakpa Chairman Gopal Sundarlal Kakshyapati. All 19 contestants were present at the event as well as Alisha Kunwar Wangmo former beauty queens. The dinner, hosted on Tamang the spacious lawns of the hotel, was followed by sumptuous desserts and mocktails.

Sitoshna Ban

Sabina Shrestha Rookmangud MISS NEPAL Pradhan Katawal IN FRAMES

Ashutosh Tiwari Sahana Vajracharya

Raj Bhai Suwal Prashant Tamrakar

Ganesh Bahadur Shrestha Supriya Tuladhar , Sadichha Shrestha Gopal Kakshapati & Alok Thapa

Subin Limbu Prinsha Shrestha Benjamin Zachary Price and Sonie Rajbhandhari Sitashma Chand Rojisha Shahi 15 “Focus on your “I think it’s very promising; it’s a fresh new batch of Miss Nepals for us!” breathing. Stay Sadichha Shrestha calm!” Nisha Adhikari to Aastha Pokhrel MISS NEPAL (backstage, before the event) “I think I am PARTYLINES SOMEONE more nervous Chitter-chatter heard backstage PASS ME THE than these HAIRSPRAY! girls!” Alok Thapa Sakil Kunwar (screaming backstage, after the Top 10)

“Malai khaas beauty Sadichha Nisha Sakil Kunwar Shrestha Adhikari pageants ko kei ideai Alok chhaina!.” Thapa Dayahang Rai (before the event)

“Enjoy the glamor and fame till it lasts, but don’t forget the responsibilities that come with the crown. At the same time, try and establish an identity that is separate from it.” (model)

“GIRLS GET OUT! SAKIL PUSH THEM OUT RIGHT NOW!” Shweta Singh (Two minutes before Dayahang Rai Round 1; the ethnic round) Sahana Vajracharya Shweta Singh

Everything needs to start some- used the trials to get better. It has sprouted a hope that in where. This truth wasn’t differ- With time, we, as an organiza- the near future, the coveted Miss ent for Miss Nepal either. In the tion, evolved and so did our goal. World crown will come home. THT year 1994, Kathmandu Jaycees While our initial aim was only to is guided by a philosophy that the was celebrating its 25th year. As give a Miss Nepal to the country, pageant is a race. It needs a good senior Jaycees members, we were it slowly dawned on us that we start, a maintenance of momen- approached for suggestions on could actually use this platform tum and, finally, the crossing of what could be done to mark the to empower and train 20 or more the final line to be won. In Miss occasion. On a whim, we proposed contestants and make them ready Nepal’s case, Shristi Shrestha a Miss Nepal pageant. There has for the walk of life. So, what used provided a good start for us, Ishani been no looking back ever since. to be a two-week training session Shrestha maintained the momen- stretched into a full six weeks. tum and pushed us farther, and THE SHAKY START now we need someone to cross the The first Miss Nepal, held in THE “NOW” line to give us a win. Now, I can’t 1994, took place for the sake Today, Miss Nepal is not just a THT say for certain who will do it and of taking place. It lacked in pageant; it has become a national when it’ll happen, but I can assure substance and really did nothing product that represents the country you that it is inevitable. much for the growth of the partici- internationally. I believe that the While Miss Nepal is progress- pants. For quite a while, we didn’t past two years speaks for itself. ing, THT is evolving too. We have pay attention to this problem but In the 2013 pageant, grown from day one and will con- we knew we had to evolve. Thus, Ishani Shrestha projected Nepal for tinue to do so. As a matter of fact, with a vision to provide profes- four and half minutes on worldwide we also have the license to send our sional training and grooming to television. The exposure it gave Miss Nepal for the the participants, we formed The the country is a reality no one can pageant, but the participation fee Hidden Treasure (THT). deny. is very high. We lack in resources, But simply establishing THT But the truth is THT can’t pull but we are trying our best to make wasn’t the end of the trials. One of off the entire pageant on its own. it materialize by 2015. For this, we the many things we failed to see We need partners and support- have been talking to the NRN com- as a new born organization was the ers, especially from the state and munity in America who are willing To Two Decades need for sponsors for the training private establishments. A few days to support us. sessions. It would take us nearly ago, Ishani Shrestha had a chat Other future plans revolving an entire year to find sponsors, with President Ram Baral Yadav around Miss Nepal include the only for the pageant to be held in and she put forth the same issue. possibility of a two-month training and More haste without proper grooming and As a result, the President has urged with the organizers of Miss India. development of the contestants. THT to hold talks with the Chief But, again, it is quite expensive Then again, the nation itself was Secretary regarding every possible which is why the plans have not Subarna Chhetri, the former Chairperson and going through a transitional period support the state can provide Miss been put into action. What we current Director of The Hidden Treasure, and this directly effected Miss Nepal. Things are looking up. urgently need is enough resources Nepal as well. There were lots of and support. We have the poten- recalls the last 20 years of Miss Nepal and tests along the way but we held on THE JOURNEY AHEAD tial, and if coupled with excellent with the belief that “Hope is better The performance of the last few grooming and support, we just what it has in store for its followers in the than hopelessness.” We turned the Miss Nepals has heightened the might see a Miss Nepal donning years to come. challenges into opportunities and expectancy of the Nepali crowd. the Miss World crown very soon. 16 Get To Know Your Miss Nepal Subin Limbu as a child

What do you think made you Two places in Nepal you really areas is a cause I would want What is the difference win? want to travel to? to work for. between meeting a stranger I was calm, had the presence Mustang and Taplejung now and meeting one before of mind, and could answer If the crown you won had receiving the title? freely without hesitation. You worst nightmare magical powers, what is the Before being crowned, Not getting to be with my one thing you would use it strangers would meet me Who amongst the other parents during my forthcom- for? because I was beautiful. Now, participants did you consider ing stay in London during the I wouldn’t say I’d make this they’ll meet me because I’m your biggest competition? international pageant. world a better place but I beautiful and I’m Miss Nepal To be honest, Pranayna would use my power to make (laughs) people more tolerant and help because I think she’s mature What is the one gift you would them handle everyday pres- What is your ride?: and poised. like to give yourself? sures. Honda Aviator A diamond necklace with

In these past few months, a small diamond pendant- Three things that make you How has the six weeks of while prepping for Miss Ne- maybe? happy training shaped you? pal, what is the one thing that Pastries, talking to my grand- I am more open to criticism you were most deprived of? What song does your heart parents, and although this now. The training has truly I was deprived of my “Ma- sing right now? might sound strange, quarrel- helped me “accept, approve hadev” hairstyle. I have The yellow gown that I wore ling with my sister (we patch and appreciate.” naturally curly hair that I used when I won always makes me up in the end though) to tie in a high bun. want to sing “junta lagyota- Where do you see yourself in rale.” One thing you can’t stand ten years? If there were only one food Impolite people. There was an I’ll be 33, a working mother that you had to eat for the rest One item from your bucket incident when a shopkeeper with a nice home and family. of your life, what would it be? list? was very rude to my sister Since I’m really interested Deep fried pork! Dresses! (who is shy by nature) and in branding and marketing, I she felt terrible when she got will probably be a corporate If you had to compare yourself home. figure. My father used to say to an animal, who would you “timi rato masi chalaune hunu be? What is an experience you parcha hai,”so I want to be I spent most of high school think is overrated? an influential figure. being called a giraffe, so why Comparing beauty with intel- not? ligence. People have this idea What do you think is neces- that beautiful people are more sary for the upcoming interna- intelligent and it’s simply not tional pageants? A Nepali personality you true, at least not all the time. Focus and a good body look up to and why.

Narayan Shrestha; An adventure sport you want Will it be awkward to attend a he used to host to try public event now? the debate pro- Rock-climbing. I am a people’s person; I gram on the BBC. won’t feel any difference or awkwardness. One thing you wish you were Who do you think should With her grandfather better at? become the Prime Minister of Which is your favourite ice- Dancing, though I do think Nepal? cream? I am much better now! My younger sister in I don’t like ice-cream. (Prin- who is pure in mind and sha and Sonie gasp) One cause that you really heart. believe in. What do you do in your free All individuals are born What would make you give up time? with social responsi- the crown? This might sound funny but I bilities. I really feel that Only if I give up on myself and put on dresses and make-up. getting technology and don’t meet my own expecta- education to rural tions.

Subin Limbu Pre-judging Session Exploring her limbu culture

Get To Know Your Miss Nepal Earth

What do you think made you it helped the judges see the One item from your bucket One cause that you really especially in terms of win? real me. list? believe in. education in the context of I was myself on stage and It’s been so hectic that I I don’t have a specific cause Nepal. was enjoying every moment of Who amongst the other haven’t been able to meet but I do believe in “fighting it. I wasn’t scared and I think participants did you consider my friends or other family back” against violence. Being An adventure sport you want your biggest competition? members for almost six aware about self-defence is to try Since we were very focused weeks; so that’s on my to-do essential, not just for women Sky-diving! I have survived on ourselves, I didn’t think list for now. but for everyone. bungee jumping twice and of anyone as a competitor as am open to any kind of sport. such. If you had to compare your- If the crown you won had self to an animal, who would magical powers, what is the What would make you give up If there were only one food you be? one thing you would use it the crown? that you had to eat for the A monkey, hands down; I’m for? Sorry, my crown is booked rest of your life, what would very chakchakey. I would plant trees and make till 2015! The only way I’m it be? the world a green place like it giving it up is if I marry a WaiWai. A Nepali personality you look once was. prince and put on a princess’ up to and why. crown. (chuckles) What is the one gift you Anil Keshari Shah as I have Three things that make you would like to give yourself? a background in banking and happy Where do you see yourself in The dhaka dress I wore from appreciate his work. Chocolates, gifts, and my ten years? Sabah Nepal during the crown. Oh, can I add one : I will be a manager in a ethnic round. One thing you wish you were more? Perfect A+ grades! corporate house and a house- better at? manager. (laughs) What song does your Singing! I am literally scared 7. What is an experience you heart sing right now? of singing. My friends and think is overrated? Which is your favourite ice- Maan kina teachers would punish me by Standing first in class is cream? runchayomaan asking me to sing! overrated. It makes the I love Baskin- Robbin’s Berry Prinsha Shrestha person so constricted, Berry Strawberry!

Get To Know Your Miss Nepal International

What do you think made you What is the one gift you One thing you wish you were What would make you give up Which is your favourite ice- win? would like to give yourself? better at? the crown? cream? I think I presented myself A pair of good shoes! Swimming! If someone can carry the 21 Love and butterscotch rather well and was never responsibility and make a COMBO!! scared of the masses or the What song does your heart If the crown you won had difference then I would hand spotlight; instead,I was very sing right now? magical powers, what is the my crown over (after my What do you do in your free happy to be in front of all I can only think of the one thing you would use it reigning period though!) time? those people! “Talalalala”tuneevery time I for? When I’m free, I play with my walk in my gown; it Power is like strength; I would What do you think is neces- five puppies - on the floor, Who amongst the other something that Rachana give people the strength sary for the upcoming inter- anywhere! participants did you consider Ma’am used to sing to us to endure every obstacle. I national pageants? your biggest competition? when we were trainin would want my power to be The ability to compete with Because I am a “small town everyone’s strength. different ideas and beliefs. girl,” I didn’t have any sort One item from your bucket It is an opportunity to make of professional experience list? Three things that make you Nepal known and to make a in the glamour world before I am returning the crown happy difference among the ladies this. The girls who did were to Pokhara after 17 years, Seeing my crown every day, from more than a hundred my biggest competition. when NeelimaGurung having a momo party with my nations. I will give it all I first won it. I can’t wait to family, and going to the gym have. In these past few months, physically deliver it to my while prepping for Miss hometown. What is an experience you Will it be awkward to at- Nepal, what is the one thing think is overrated? tend a public event now? that you were most deprived If you had to compare Wanting to have everything in It won’t be awkward. of? yourself to an animal, who life and being frustrated when People will just be SLEEP! would you be? it doesn’t happen. I think more conscious of A dog maybe? I like to think coming to terms with it is a us but we will be If there were only one food I am as loyal as one but can gradual process that requires ourselves, I think. that you had to eat for the bite too! (laughs) a lot of effort. rest of your life, what would it be? A Nepali personality you Who do you think should Dudhmalai, even though I look up to and why. become the Prime Minister of can’t really have it for the AnuradhaKoirala, because Nepal? rest of my life. she gave voice to the plight Someone who is educated in of so many women and the field of political science You worst nightmare leads such a simple life and knows what he/she is Going home without a crown! herself. doing. Sonie Rajbhandari

20 Ishani’s timeline 20 March, 2013 Living every girl’s dream She was contestant no. 6, as she strut the stage of Miss Nepal 2013, held at the Nepal Academy Hall in Kamaladi. 21 years old, confident and brimming with elegance and grace, 15 April, 2013 Ishani Shrestha first won the Best Walk Being a Young Conservationist sub-title that evening, before she broke The new Miss Nepal immediately took on into tears when announced as Miss Nepal her role as the eighth Young Conservation 2013. She would wear the crown with Ambassador for the World Wildlife Fund. utmost pride during her one-year reign as Upon being appointed, she said, “I will, in Miss Nepal. the best possible way, use this opportunity to raise awareness on conservation issues.” 12 May, 2013 She lived up to her words in the 12 months Cold Hands, Warm Hearts that followed. Under the slogan “Chiso Haat, Nyaano Maya,” Ishani Shrestha along with The Hidden Treasure 24 September, 2013 team, headed to Jumla to conduct Giving is better than receiving a free oral health camp. She also donated her A mandala, a present cash prize of Rs. 1,00,000 towards the cause. handpicked by Ishani, was one The same camp served as her project “Smile of the few selected from a total of Nepal” for the “Beauty with a Purpose” title at 127 gifts. The gold leaf hand carved mandala, the Miss World pageant. depicting Buddhist teachings, the circle of life and the entire universe, was auctioned for 18 27 September, 2013 million Indonesian Rupiah for the children of Beauty with a Purpose that country at the Miss World Charity Brunch. Ishani accomplished what no other Miss Nepal had by getting her hands on the “Beauty with a 18 February, 2014 Purpose” title which, according to Striving to bring smiles her, is the “heart” of Miss World. Her project, Ishani continued her “Smile Nepal” project which was titled “Smile Nepal,” secured her even months after the Miss World pageant a spot in the Top 10. Soon after winning the was over. She held free dental and sexual/ title, she updated her Facebook page: “I have reproductive health camps in Amaltari, won the Miss World Beauty with a Purpose Nawalparasi. title!!..I couldn’t wait to tell you guys: I won Beauty with a Purpose!! Bringing Nepal’s first title award home. Beyond blessed and content.”

2 May, 2014 Beginning of a new chapter Ishani Shrestha gave her final speech as the reigning Miss Nepal at the Miss Nepal 2014 pageant. Sharing her incredible journey, from being one of the 18 contestants at Miss Nepal 2013 to bagging the Top 10 spot at the Miss World pageant, along with all her experiences in between, a very emotional Ishani thanked everyone for their support and walked the Miss Nepal 2014 Ishani Shrestha (r) stage for the last time as the reigning Miss called on President Ram Baran Yadav Nepal. (c) at Rashtrapati Bhawan on Thursday 1 May, just before she completed her successful reign where she made Nepal proud. This was the first time any Miss Nepal had ever had the opportunity to meet the country’s head of state. Also seen in the picture is the Chairman of The Hidden Treasure, Gopal Sundar Lal Kakshapati.

Entertainment//Feature 22 The Competition Is Not Over This year’s Miss Nepal pageant might have ended but it’s only the beginning for the three winners. A whole world of international pageants now awaits, and with it comes hard work.

Unless you’ve been living under a rock these last few days, GROOMING you must have seen the numerous reports on a new crop of The girls do have a basic Miss Nepal beauties. Subin Limbu, Prinsha Shrestha, and knowledge of grooming and Sonie Rajbhandari, the three winners, will now be taking what looks best on them. part in the Miss World, , and However, that knowledge is pageants respectively, all under the guidance of The Hidden certainly not enough for the Treasure (THT), the organizers of Miss Nepal. international competitions PROJECTS Although a round of competitions and preparations are where they will have to do Even if you’re only a casual follower of the Miss Nepal and over, it’s not the end for the beauty queens. They still have to everything themselves. Shakil Miss World competitions, you’ve probably heard about Ishani prepare for their respective international pageants...and the Kunwar will be giving the girls Shrestha’s history making “Beauty with a Purpose” title win, road ahead appears to be tough. aggressive grooming lessons a victory that came about due to her “Smile Nepal” project on hair and makeup for every for the pageant. Miss World and Miss Earth INTERPERSONAL SKILLS occasion possible. contestants are all given projects in which they have to be Just looking good does not cut it, which is why THT will actively involved. make sure their personalities shine through as well. Apart FITNESS Though Miss World recommends projects concerning women from improving communication and networking skills, Being fit and having a good and children, Ishani’s successful “Smile Nepal” dealt with dental the trio will also have to work on self-confidence and body is one of the unwritten hygiene. Subin too could focus on a different topic. Prinsha, on leadership. According to Shweta Singh, Miss Nepal 1999 and requirements of a beauty the other hand, will be working with the International Union CEO of THT, leadership skills and self-confidence will be pageant. It thus makes for Conservation of Nature to develop and act on projects focused upon in particular since they had received an email sense that the three will dealing with eco tourism. Though Miss International does not praising Miss Nepal 2013 Ishani Shrestha’s confidence and have to visit Jasmine Fitness require its contestants to submit projects, Sonie will be working willingness to participate in every event at the Miss World to continue the intensive on one in a field of her interest to add value to her profile. 2013 pageant. workout that they began while preparing for the Miss Nepal 2014 pageant. Why these international competitions? Though the Nepali contestants qualify for all of the big four international pageants (Miss World, Miss Universe, Miss International, and Miss Earth), The Hidden Treasure sends the winners to just three. According to Subarna Chhetri, the director of THT, although the organization has the license to send Miss Nepal to the Miss Universe pageant, the high participation fee has proven to be an obstacle. In previous years, the Miss Nepal first runner-up participated in the Miss Asia Pacific pageant, but since the competition is no longer held, the winner is sent to Miss Earth instead.

Expenses Apart from travel and other expenses, The Hidden Treasure also has to pay franchise fees to two of the international beauty competitions. Miss World charges around Rs. 5,36,390 annually, while Miss Earth charges Rs. 1,92,700.

Requirements of the international pageants • The contestants should be single and never married. • The contestants should be natural born citizens of the country they are representing. • The contestants should never have given birth. • The contestants should be between 19- 25 years of age. • The contestants should have graduated high school (10 + 2 or equivalent). • The contestants should be at least 5’4 without shoes. • The contestants should be attractive, in sound health, and should have good moral character. • The contestants should have not have tattoos on their body.

STAGE PRESENTATION Though all the contestants were given an intensive workshop on stage presence and choreography, there are slight differences on how we do it and how it’s done internationally. The three beauty queens will be given lessons on stage presentation in accordance with their respective competitions. 23 Entertainment//Feature

DearSubin Bahini,

First of all, congratulations on your win. From not being able to believe that you actually won, to letting the idea sink in, you must slowly be getting used to people calling you Miss Nepal. I have witnessed your progress from being an applicant to becoming Miss Nepal. My first impression of you was a positive one. You seemed intelligent, smart and confident. Being a beauty contest, I was not sure how you would fare amongst the rest of the girls. You reminded me of myself, a full-on tomboyish person, waiting to get out of the mold (I still am, so don’t worry, your essence will remain with you). As I watched you progress during the training period, I used to be bothered by your hair, and even mentioned it to you once. Its frizzy, dry texture was killing your soft looks. Sakil Kunwar did an amazing job of taming it for the grand finale; you looked beautiful. I always had a soft spot for you, but I wasn’t sure whether you were beauty queen material. You broke my misconception when I heard your answer; I knew the crown was yours then. We have another thing in common; we are both Limbunis. Everyone looked at me and congratulated me when you won. I was happy and conflicted at the same time. I was happy as I was proud of what you had achieved and conflicted about whether I was supposed to be glad that we belong to the same community. We know the kind of discussions that have been doing the rounds on social media about Newars ruling the Miss Nepal pageant and that it is rigged. We know it’s not true and your win proved it. It’s high time the “new” Nepal lets go of such petty misconceptions. At the same time, the indigenous community is elated about your win; a felicitation program by Kirat Yakthung Chumlung, a Limbu organization is about to take place. I too was felicitated by them and am happy that more are joining the gang. Now for the Miss Nepal talk. Your first month will be filled with interview sessions, television shows, photo shoots, and attending numerous programs. Wherever you go, always smile, and hold your head up high. You’ll get your fair share of criticism, for the choice of clothes to the words you choose. Always remember: be true to yourself, and learn from the criticism. Never take it to heart. Thank god we did not have Facebook in our time. We did not get to see the harsh side of the world, except for when we had discussions with the Maoist party about the pageant. Surprisingly, they have calmed down about it and I am glad they have. It’s given more room for the recent Miss Nepals to focus on the international pageant. After Ishani’s success at Miss World, we have high hopes for/from you too. As soon as you get time, start working on your Beauty with a Purpose cause. We are always here to help you. With success comes great responsibility. From an ordinary girl one day, you’ve become a celebrity overnight. It takes some time to get used to the idea. I would ride in Safa Tempos the day before the pageant and had to take taxis afterwards; you are lucky to have an Eon car to drive around in. Respect everyone, be nice, but also be opinionated. Always be punctual wherever you go and give everything 500%. And never ever leave behind the real Subin Limbu in this roller coaster ride of being a Miss Nepal. Love, Malvika Subba (Di)

Celebs’ Advice

Nisha Adhikari: “Use whatever Dayahang Rai: The title of Miss Nepal is a experiences you have collected throughout statement in itself; so I hope the new Miss the training session, and use them well. Nepal justifies the representation and In the international arena, be as Nepali as works on showcasing Nepal’s beautiful art you can without overstepping the mark.” and culture in the international podium.

Ishani Shrestha’s: ‘To the new Miss Nepal, believe in yourself or no Arpan Thapa: I hope the winner remains one else will”. faithful to the crown and does not Alok Thapa: “Life for you is going to remove herself from the responsibilities change forever. But don’t begin to act a that come with it! certain way; stay normal!” Entertainment//Soundscape 24 Of Music and Words Canadian guitarist Matthew Warnock is a killer on stage when it comes to showcasing his progressions and licks. Off stage, he has a degree in jazz music, and years of experience in music journalism, a fact that was evident at his weeklong workshop at Kathmandu Jazz Conservatory Girish Subedi

The workshop got more inter- esting when Warnock stated that musicians such as Sammy Hagar and Dr. Dre were currently seen more as entrepreneurs than musicians. By owning businesses of their own, they have been earning more than they used to as musicians.

sales of celebrity musicians, his meeting with Robby Warnock gave examples of Krieger as an example of artists like Lady Gaga and what a good interview quick (ex-Van Halen), to name a they could make money Adele, who are probably should be like. The browse few. by starting a website like the only musicians to guitarist and composer of through “Today, the only form his. His answers, however, witness wide physical sales The Doors appeared to be Matthew of media that triggers were optimistic. “When of their music in the past shocked when Warnock, Warnock’s everyone’s attention are computer programmers in few years. According to mentioning a pattern in official website (www. online social networks,” the West were introducing him, everyone has gone one of his compositions, A digital, which, in turn, has asked whether he was mattwarnockguitar.com) stated Warnock at his social networking sites will give you a fair idea workshop, which took for the first time, I doubt led to another problem inspired by a conventional of what he is all about. place from 16 to 22 anyone thought they for the industry - leaked music piece that Warnock For one, he is known April at Kathmandu Jazz would be as successful as albums. “Gaga was furious had also heard. “Krieger amongst jazz musicians Conservatory. On this they are now!” he said. when her producers leaked said I was probably the as one of the best players particular class, he talked Warnock believes her music online before first person to listen to around. And then there about how social networks computer programmers her album came out!” said his music in detail since are his immensely popular have become a necessity are the modern day rock Warnock. It’s because of most people these days go free video lessons that for Internet users. When stars. To prove his point, this that some musicians through an album once have been of great help the jazz music professor he just had to mention have been releasing albums and forget about it,” he to budding musicians mentioned Facebook, Mark Zuckerberg and a without pre-promotions recalled. around the world. Twitter and YouTube, ears few others. these days, he added. Alongside the diverse In addition to his perked up. For Matt, this The workshop got more Warnock cited the aspects and dimensions teaching on the web, reaction was not unique. interesting when Warnock example of Eminem as a of music journalism, Warnock also has It has occurred in each stated that musicians such musician attempting to Warnock gave insights a history in music of his classes around the as Sammy Hagar and Dr. stay on top in moments of on the different ways of journalism. The list world-especially in the Dre were currently seen crisis by buying copyrights writing album, event and of musicians he has US, Canada and : the more as entrepreneurs of songs by other artists music reviews. He also interviewed runs long. His three places he visits the than musicians. By and collecting royalties for explained the various association with well- most. owning businesses of them. But he also referred ways of interviewing known online portals such But, despite his their own, they have been to the low turnover of musicians according to as allaboutjazz.com and experience, discussions earning more than they royalties due to people their genre. The workshop guitarinternational.com during the one-week used to as musicians. This registering at legal music was an insightful have led him to probe workshop led to questions led to another topic: music download websites that experience for students musicians as famous that Warnock had never royalties. offer unlimited downloads wanting to get into as Robby Krieger (The thought of. He was To give students a grasp for only a few dollars each music journalism and, Doors), Slash (ex-Guns n perplexed when the of what has really been month. overall, served as proof of Roses) and Sammy Hagar attendees asked him how happening with album Warnock described Warnock achievements. Of Music and Words

On 30 April, the third Italian Food and Film Festival brought Kathmandu closer to Italy with a generous helping of pasta and the mafia. Dorothy Lysandra Lu

lassy and cosy are the words that come The IFFF was certainly no stiff dinner party. which Candiani recommends. Vesper House’s wines to mind when entering Black Pepper Between courses, it wasn’t uncommon to see are sold at a discounted price, and as with all Cafe and Pub, the venue of the third patrons greeting each other with air kisses, drinks, are to be paid separately. Italian Food and Film Festival (IFFF). before settling down to chat. If anything, it was a Held every Wednesday since 9 April, the comfortable house party with homemade food, as Curtain Call Cfestival, organized by Gianantonio Candiani and the the main course exemplified. The IFFF will end on Wednesday, 14 May. For Kathmandu Film Society, delivers authentic Italian the interested, Candiani intends to serve a mixed The Lasagne agli Spinaci e Pomodori Freschi was cuisine and entertainment. starter, Antipasto Misto — a popular Italian choice, as “beautiful” (to quote Candiani’s description) as as it allows one to try bits of everything. The main At first glance, the presence of napkins and the starter. Cheese and fresh baked spinach were course is black squid ink pasta, with prawns and candles might suggest a fancy dinner, but once the most prominent flavors of the dish. My teeth zucchini (Tagliolini al Nero di Seppia con i Gamberi the meal rolls out, you’ll realize it is anything but. also broke into sundried tomatoes from Italy, while e le Zucchine). The meal will end with a serving of Designed by Candiani, the set menu is genuinely the sweet juice from the baked fruit burst on my Tiramisú after which the 2013 Paolo Sorrentino film, La Grande Bellezza, will be screened. Booking details Italian and varies every week. tongue. The handmade pasta was firm and had can be found at www.3ifff.com. soaked up enough flavors from the ingredients to Last week’s starter, Crostini ai Funghi con il taste absolutely divine. Formaggio, was bread with cheese and mushroom. The warm bread was topped with melted Italian The gastronomical adventure ended with Torta al cheese from Himal Farm. Light and slightly sweet, Cioccolato — or more simply, chocolate cake. The the cheese, when combined with the simple bread, cake walked the fine line between being sufficiently enhanced the flavor of the fragrant dried mushrooms “chocolatey” and not too rich in a perfect manner. imported from Italy; olive oil, black pepper, coriander, Drizzled with Hershey’s chocolate sundae sauce, the and a hint of garlic being the spices of choice. decadent treat was worth the extra pound or three and was perfect for savoring as the film of the night Cinematic Companion of the Week came on: E’ Stato Il Figlio. The movie presented for the week was E’ Stato An Italian evening, with a meal and movie, Il Figlio, or It Was The Son, a 2012 movie comes at Rs 950. Attendees have to book in directed by Daniele Cipri. It tells the story of advance as Candiani only caters to 40 people. the Ciraulos, a poor dysfunctional family from Should patrons only be interested in the film, the Palermo, whose youngest daughter is killed in the crossfire of the mafia. The film goes on to follow the screening costs Rs 100. Booking is not necessary, family’s woes as they attempt to gain compensation for their though entrance depends on seat availability. Drinks daughter’s death, and their ensuing debt. are not included, but Black Pepper’s liquor menu is available, as are Italian wines from Vesper House, Entertainment//Sports//Cycling 26 Cycling for

The Tour Schedule Day 1 (11 May): Kathmandu to Kurintar; distance of 114 km (via Boudha, Pashupatinath, Shwoyambhunath and Thankot) Day 2 (12 May): Kurintar to Arunkhola; distance of 98 km (via Mugling and Narayanghat) Serenity Day 3 (13 May): Arunkhola to Bhairawa; distance of 84 km (via Daunne, Bardaghat and Butwal) The Tour de’ Lumbini 2014 is where sports, tourism, and a prayer for Day 4 (14 May): Bhairawa to Lumbini; distance of 22 km harmony converge. (merge to mingle in the Buddha Purnima celebrations in Lumbini and return to Kathmandu by bus in the evening) Samyam Shrestha

exploring landscapes and people as being a ride for peace. There will be three night World Cup Awards stops on the way – at Kurintar, Based Arunkhola and Bhairahawa. Upon reaching Lumbini, the cyclists will attend the official Buddha Purnima celebration organized by Lumbini Development Trust. They on a will then be taken to various pilgrimage sites in the area. The participants are required to bring their own bicycles, and since the ride will be along the main highway, bikes in good True Story. condition are preferred, ones with at least seven or eight With a worldwide viewership and a rabid following, gears. the 2014 FIFA World Cup is being waited with The first edition of TDL baited breath and renewed expectations. The was held in 2012 (which winning team gets all the glory, but people also happened to be Visit Lumbini look forward to the secondary awards, which are Year) in memory of the considered pretty big in itself. late conservationist and Samyak Moktan environmentalist, Dr. Prahlad Yonzon. The motto then was The Golden Ball award is presented to the best player “Safer Roads, Safer Lives.” of each FIFA World Cup final, with a shortlist drawn up The inaugural rally was led by by the FIFA technical committee and the winner voted World Cyclist and Mt. Everest for by representatives of the media. summiteer, Pushkar Shah. The first TDL saw 45 riders The Golden Boot or Golden Shoe award goes to the top taking part, and since then, goal scorer of the FIFA World Cup. It was introduced at the 1930 FIFA World Cup. he advent of bicycles (TDL) and World Cycling the number of participants has as the new darling Foundation Nepal (WCFN), been increasing each year. The The Golden Glove award is given to the best goalkeeper vehicle of the urban and supported by Cycle City 2013 event had 50 cyclists. of the tournament. Before 2010, it was named the youth is evident Network Nepal/Kathmandu “This year we are expecting Yashin Award in honor of the late Soviet goalkeeper, Lev by their increasing Cycle City 2020 (KCC2020), more than 75 people,” says Yashin. Tpresence on the streets of the is a four-day tour that starts Chakshu Malla, the tour The Best Young Player award was introduced at the capital. Whether it is out of in Kathmandu and ends in coordinator. 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany and presented environmental consciousness Lumbini, spanning from 11 to “Nepal experienced a decade to Germany’s Lukas Podolski. It is given to the best or just to be in vogue, cycling 14 May. of insurgency, but not a single below-21 player of the tournament. has had an upsurge in recent The tour, beginning tourist was killed in those ten years. Consequently, cycling The FIFA Fair Play Trophy is given to the team with at Bouddhanath years. We believe that this is as a sport has also seen a rise. the best record of fair play during the World Cup Stupa, will proceed the time to rebuild our nation, Considering the close ties tournament. Only teams that qualify for the second through Pashupatinath, which is why we are cele brating between sports and tourism, round are considered. The winners of this award earn Basantapur Durbar Square, peace in the birthplace of the the Tour de’ Lumbini could the FIFA Fair Play Trophy, a diploma, a fair play medal Swayambhunath, and onwards Buddha,” states Malla. “We be a worthwhile addition to for each player and official, and $50,000 worth of across the country to the would like you to voice your Nepal’s tourism industry. Not football equipment to be used for youth development. sacred gardens of Kapilvastu. solidarity with us by celebrating to mention the fact that it’s The four days will consist of Buddha Jayanti in a peaceful also for a cause. The Most Entertaining Team award is for the squad that glorious rides over green hills, way...by pedaling for peace.” has entertained the public the most. This is determined With “Pedal for Peace” as along shimmering rivers and The registration charge for by a general poll and was first awarded in 1994. its theme, Tour de Lumbini down to the plains, covering the tour is Rs. 3,000 for Nepalis 2014 aims to promote five world heritage sites in The All-Star Team, which until 2006 was named after and US$ 65 for foreigners. sponsors MasterCard, consists of players belonging Lumbini and the Buddha’s the process - Bouddhanath, This includes lodging and food message of peace nationally Pashupatinath, Basantapur, to various sides. Until 2006, the players were chosen throughout the event, plus a by FIFA’s technical study group, but this changed in and internationally. The event, Swayambhunath, and Lumbini t-shirt and transportation back initiated by Tour de’ Lumbini itself. It will be as much about 2010 when an online poll in the FIFA.com website was to Kathmandu. utilized instead. 27Issue 220 | 15 May 2014 th nk

Based on a True Story.

Life inspires movies. Any single incident can trigger a story, but the degree of inspiration that is drawn differs from film to film. There are also times when filmmakers run rampant with their creative freedom. This begets the question: How far from reality are you allowed to go?

Bijaya Adhikari

film that is based on might not be shown as a slap in the based on facts. a true story shows the film, but the story of the insult is never Senior filmmaker Laxmi Nath Sharma, life and times of the omitted.” whose fictionalized credentials touch protagonist. But in a lot As much as he believes in creative the spirit of reality with films such as of instances, filmmakers freedom, Karki feels that facts and Shantideep, Badalido Akash, and Sarangi, find it necessary to spice statistics should be convincing. “You believes that the manipulation should things up a bit - by adding an incident cannot make a film about the People’s be reasonable. “A true story does not Athat never took place, or exaggerating a War and suddenly claim that a hundred mean that everything should be shown in miniscule encounter and turning it into thousand people died during those the way it exactly happened,” he states. the focal point of the story. This liberty years,” he says. “Remember the word ‘based’. When a film that filmmakers take is called “creative is already ‘based’ on a true story it means freedom.” Veteran director and actor Nir Shah that there is room for manipulation. projects this manipulation in two ways. Shailendra D Karki, whose work We call it ‘cinematic treatment.’ This “One is a public true story—something ranges from Acharya, a true story, treatment should, however, be rational,” that all people know about. There is to the fictionalized account of a he adds. little room for manipulation there,” Hollywood film Sold, puts it in simple he explains. “The other is a domain Director Ganesh Dev Pandey has a words: “Creative freedom does not true story—one that is historical but different take. “The Hollywood film Avatar necessarily mean that liberty is taken which only certain people know about. is a work of fiction, but that does not to twist history. For instance, in a true “Remember the word Filmmakers can easily put in their mean it’s not a true story,” he says. “Its story, a character could have slapped ‘based’... it means that ideas to spice up that story.” themes dealt with American imperialism another person in public. While making there is room for ma- and militarism. While the film was a film, we look at that incident as a nipulation...treatment In many cases, even when a film fictional, the message it gave out was public humiliation, and try to project should, however, be is marketed as being based on a true rational” - Filmmaker constructed on facts. So, for me, every that intensity. A slap from a true story story, only around 70% of it is actually Laxmi Nath Sharma, film is based on a true story!” Think//Issues That Matter 28

True tales

What do filmmakers say?

Asif Shah:When a true story comes to a maker's plate, he has complete control to bend it to his ease. But he should be careful to not make it one-sided. Ganesh Dev Pandey: Mood is the most important aspect of telling a true story. The makers can choose to accentuate the intensity of a scene with music and visual quality, but the essence of the story should remain the same.

Laxmi Nath Sharma: As the person behind the wheels, the maker can steer his ship wherever he wants. But he should be careful not to steer too far from reality. Creative freedom should have some meaning and a reasonable message with it.

Nir Shah: The maker should be connected to the audience. Creative freedom, when it comes to a domain true story, can be glamorized to a certain degree, but a public true story should be true to the core.

Nischal Basnet: Creative freedom is allowed but to a limited extent. The larger portion of the story should go towards telling how it was, and cinematic treatment should go towards projecting how it could have been.

Prabin Shrestha: Liberty is taken to maintain the pacing of the film. In real life, each incident is a story but it might not be a narrative one. Some incidents have to be removed and managed to make the film crisp.

Prashant Rasaily: A true story should be able to project the truth behind it. The location, the interaction, the content, the setting—everything can be dramatized. But the mood of the story should be the same.

Shailendra D Karki: Creativity is dynamic. Any movement is possible within a levelheaded index but intense care should be taken so that the true story does not go beyond reality. While the scene can be different, the remnants should be the Long Live same.

Subarna Thapa: The criteria surrounding the character can be moved, but the conflict should remain the same. A true story, by the end of it all, is a matter of perspective. It should either be Theatre a mystery or a history. In both cases, the point Nepali theatre has had its fair of view of the character matters the most. That's share of rocky days but the contract what audiences will see. with longevity is something it takes

very seriously. Despite the absence of Subrat Acharya: A true story is like raw meat. There could be facets to it that cannot readily be space, a dearth of playwrights, and consumed by the audience. Makers hence soften lack of funding, the people involved in the raw meat, put some spices onto it, cook it and theatre have steadfastly refused to let serve it as something delicious. their passion die.

Ujeena Rana 29 Think//Issues That Matter

Long Live

hen Sachin Ten- the end of an era; an end of a dream,» eu- space, Malla had embraced the street, but dulkar announced logizes , a playwright who was now, all that the young minds at Sarwanam his retirement closely associated with the group. Subedi have to do is focus on the creative aspects from ODI and Test notes that the theatre group helped pro- of theatre performances. Other groups cricket, there was duce many talented artists – both on and haven’t been so lucky. Aarohan collapsed Theatre a lot of specula- off stage: Saugat Malla, Rajan Khatiwada, because it could not find a venue of its tion regarding Sarita Giri, Pashupati Rai, and Suresh own, while Sarwanam saw prosperity be- his replacement. Chand to name a few. «Gurukul is hoping cause it was able to manage its own space. Who after Sachin? What about the team? to rise from its ashes,» shares Subedi. The Many theatre groups in the valley don’t WBut the Indian squad is thriving and how. resurrection is long pending. own land therefore space tops the “lack” When Aarohan, Gurukul closed down, the list, immediately followed by funding and reaction was similar. What after Gurukul? Space, the fly in the ointment playwrights. People were hesitant to imagine the future “The future of Nepali theatre is very of Nepali theatre without Gurukul, and bright,” says Ashesh Malla, the man who Where are the playwrights? rightfully so. Nonetheless, Sarwanam, spearheaded street drama in Nepal. Malla “The dearth of playwrights is not just our Shilpee, Mandala, Theatre Village, Actors› has been shifting the discourse from the problem but a shared global concern,” says Studio, and others have each been put- recurrent “struggle for space” to “other Malla. A refreshing thing about Sarwanam, ting together quality theatre productions. pertinent matters,” at least in regard to his though, is that they work hard at produc- «When Gurukul was bulldozed, it marked theater group, Sarwanam. In the absence of ing playwrights. Shilpee too has joined the Think//Issues That Matter 30

bandwagon. Subedi states that it is crucial for the playwright and the director to find resonance - a failure to do so will result in a complete mess on stage. Subedi’s creative collaboration with Sunil Pokhrel produced some great masterpieces; Fire in the Monastery is one such rare gem. The fact that 94-year-old Satya Mohan Joshi had collaborated with Rajan Khatiwada (Man- dala Theatre) and Bimal Subedi (Theatre Village) for Sunkeshari and Charumati respectively has not gone unnoticed either. Shiva Rijal, a theatre personality and pro- fessor at Tribhuvan University, is working on a play for Shilpee, while Subedi has written a play titled Nau Lakh Tara Udaye, which Sunil Pokhrel will stage in the US. Direc- tors opt for adaptations when they lack good scripts. Some work, some don’t.

Money matters Passion alone isn’t enough. Many theatre groups in Nepal are commissioned by NGOs and INGOs to stage plays on issues that they endorse. This way, theatre people make a decent amount of money, and they save some to produce their kind of modern plays. “It would be good to see a constant flow of money into the theatres so that artists can continue to remain passionate until they grow old. A theatre artist should be able to make a living through theatre just like a person with any other job,” remarks

Eelum Dixit, a young man who has made theatre and cinema his bread and butter. Red Monsoon, the film he wrote and directed, will be released on 9 May.

Theatre in the digital age Should theatre feel threatened by the offerings of the “digital age”? “All things digital can be used to enhance the offer- ings of theatre,” answers Dixit. “Studio 7’s Gods of Carnage and Actor’s Studio’s Court Martial used a screen to tell parts of their story.” In his view, solid scripts, mature acting, and careful direction are more important. “Let’s focus on these, and raise the level of our technology slowly – everything will fall into place then,” he adds. When posed with the same question, Malla doesn’t seem per- turbed. “When cinema came into being, theatre was proph- esied to meet a slow death. Likewise, the rise of television was seen as the downfall of theatre. Now, the digital age is considered the nemesis.”

What next? There is still a lot of work to be done. Firstly, theatre needs to be cleaned up; it needs to be properly managed. Subedi sees theatre flourishing outside the institutions, but it would be even better with help from the institutions themselves. The state should also conduct drama competitions and festivals, and provide subsidies when possible. Theatre needs to el- evate its performance level in order to increase its audience. To ensure its longevity, theatre needs to keep experimenting, keep surprising, and keep improving.

Long live the theatre...and the audience. In Nepal, a good number of young people visit theatres. Is it because plays are as alive as an art form can get? Is it be- cause tickets come cheap in our part of the world? “Until Fire in the Monastery came along, college and university students didn’t really frequent theatres. That play ignited a love for theatre in the youth,” states Abhi Subedi. Whatever be the reason, as long as there is an audience, theatre will not perish. «Earlier, theatre attracted a niche market, but today all kinds of people are interested in plays,» says Dipesh Poudel, the director of the acclaimed Sphatik. The passion, commitment, and talent that stems from today’s theatre youth, compounded with the right use of technology, will prove to be essential in shepherding Nepali theatre in the right direction.