Issue - 6th Edition [Ashwin 2067]

Magazine Ashwin 2067

Parcha

Productions: Taking Nepali

Talent to a Whole New Wonder

www.navyaata.com mystylist@navyaata.com

Bhuwan KC

on Role Reversal in Life and in Films

Year 1 Issue 4 SHRAWAN 2067 B S July-August 2010

How To We a r Slim Fit Jeans

Richard Branson on what makes a

Champion

Youth Vibe With

the Person or the

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NAVYAATA

Editor’s note

President CEO Editor in Chief Editor Creative Head Director Hello Readers!

NAVYAATA lovers and well-wishers, this is my first letter as an editor and I am making it a little personal. Bear with me this time and I promise all my future letters to you will be about us and not just me and myself.

Before I took the charge as an editor of NAVYAATA, I was warned: Be prepared to take control of the aircraft while you are flying it. My only concern was the crew.

Having flipped through the past issues of NAVYAATA, I realized most of them were amateur writers with little or no experience in writing for a popular magazine. But then how could I overlook the fact that NAVYAATA is already very well liked among its readers group: YOU, the youngsters. I didn’t have to brood longer to realize that the popularity of the magazine is, to a great extent, because of the very writers I thought of as amateurs. They are all people with fresh and youthful perspectives about life. They are YOUNG. And that is what matters to us, right?

NAVYAATA’s solemn pledge to all its readers is that we’ll keep that Youthful Perspective alive.

NAVYAATA is prepared to take new heights and go a great distance and we want our readers to be with us throughout this journey, and not just being a reader. We want you to be our critic and our admirers, our readers as well as contributors. Let us be the platform for you to share your idea of Nepal (the world, for that matter), your dreams, your visions and your inspirations.

Happy reading!

Amendra Pokhrel Editor

Letter to the Editor I started reading Navyaata from its second issue. Hats off to you guys out there for bringing out a magazine of such quality and content. I’m really glad that you featured Abhaya in your magazine. As I’m a big fan of hers, I’m always happy to know more about her. I am looking forward to seeing more interesting articles in future.

Pinky Tamang, UK I got hold of Navyaata at my cousin’s place, during my stay in Kathmandu last month. It was the third edition of the magazine. What I really liked about Navyaata were the pictures and the articles that covered unique concepts and topics. On my way back to Dharan, I bought the fourth edition of the magazine as I knew it would make my trip more interesting. I never got bored throughout the journey. I must say a job well done. Please keep it up!

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Dolly Gurung Himal Karmacharya Sudan Bista Amendra Pokhrel Hem Kumar Limbu Sharmila Thapa

Reporters Dolkar Lhamo Surakhsha Basnet Tsering Dolker Gurung Sumati Maharjan Photographers Phurpu Tsering Gurung Usha Pun Marketing Associates Tara Lama (Tamang) Shanti Gurung Niru Shrestha Fashion Coordinator Sharmila Model Coordinator Haishant Bijashwa Rai Intern

Akash Rajbandhari Monika Gurung Tamding Sherpa Shreeja Karki Ashish Baiju Anosh Sunwar Giri Navyaata Magazine is a lifestyle magazine published every month on the 1st of the Nepali month. All rights reserved in respect to articles, illustrations, photographs, etc. published in Navyaata Magazine. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part in any form without the written consent of the publisher. The opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher and the publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions.

Kathmandu CDO Reg. No. 104/066/067 Published by: Navyaata Media Pvt. Ltd. Tel/Fax: 4001036, info@navyaata.com Printing: Jagdamba Press Pvt. Ltd., Tel: 52500179 Color Separation: CTP Nepal Pvt. Ltd., Tel: 5250468 Mail us at: Navyaata Magazine, North Gate, Lainchaur, P.O. Box 10053, Kathmandu, Nepal For editorial queries, write to us at editorial@navyaata.com For marketing queries, write to us at sales@navyaata.com Go to our fan page (Navyaata Magazine) at facebook for exclusive pictures, updates and events of the magazine.

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ON OUR COVER

Navya Girl

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his month our Navya Girl is Barsha Thapa who’s made up her mind to set the modeling world ablaze! Born Sagittarian, Barsha Thapa’s most remarkable feature has to be her height. She is only 19, but stands 5’10” tall. Now that’s something you don’t get to see every day.

Currently enrolled at the prestigious Institute of Hotel Management, Aurangabad, Barsha is a total sports enthusiast. She bagged gold medals for 800 meters run organized by her college, for two years in a row, though Barsha’s favorite sport is basketball. An extrovert by nature, Barsha is a well known performer when it comes to local gigs and college concerts. She absolutely loves R&B music and tells us that Rihanna is her all time favorite artist.

While she might be pursuing her BA Honors in Hotel Management and interning for the likes of the Taj Hotel Resorts & Palaces, Barsha’s true passion lies in modeling. When questioned about her aspirations, Barsha gave a quick smile. “A super model,” she said confidently. And the next word, we heard her say was “New York.” After her undergrads, she is determined to move to New York City and work for IMG, which is ranked as the world’s number one international model management firm. With such zeal and determination, Barsha’s certainly going to make a mark for herself in the glam world. All the best Barsha!

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Photograph: Kishor Kayastha Post Production: Vidhan Rajbhandari Stylist: Sharmila & Akash Rajbhandari

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Be inspired/ Mrs. Mathura Sainju

EDUCATOR TO THE CORE Mrs. Mathura Sainju

By Tsering Dolker Gurung Photograph by Shishir Maharjan

“You cannot change students by punishing them.”

A

woman, who had to fight innumerable odds to complete her education, has been guiding students and teachers alike for more than 40 years as an educationist. Mathura Sainju’s life, no doubt, is a book full of inspiring lessons.

Mathura’s story has the beginning of a typical woman born at a time when women were merely seen as household helps.

But instead of resigning to the fate, as most women of her time did, she struggled to break free of the housewife stereotype and become an educationist.

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Born on 14th October, 1948, in a middle class family in Illam, Mathura was the youngest child of the Sainju family.

Headstrong and ambitious, it didn’t take long for her to decide what she wanted in life. It did, however, take a lot of effort for her to accomplish her dreams.

Difficulties were the constant feature of her life when she was growing up. Mathura lost her father when she was just a young girl, leaving her mother solely responsible for the upbringing of the two sisters. Soon, financial difficulties followed and securing a degree seemed like a far away dream. Fortunately, the family owned some ancestral lands, returns from which were used to provide for their upkeep and for Mathura’s education. Her elder sister who was not fortunate enough to get education would do Mathura’s share of housework to let her dedicate more time to studies. Both the women in Mathura’s life, her mother and her sister, backed her decision to study. Their support didn’t go in vain.

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Be inspired/ Mrs. Mathura Sainju

“I told them until and unless I complete my Bachelors degree there is no way I am getting married.”

Education, which is now easily accessible to girls, was not the same back then. People often frowned at and railed against the girls who went to school. “It was very tough to get education. Life was so hard back then,” says Mathura with a distant look in her eyes, as if reviewing all the difficulties of the past.

In 2021 B.S, Mathura completed her S.L.C from Saraswati Kanya High School, making her one of the only four girls to have passed the exam from the school that year. “Studying wasn’t as easy as it is these days. Nowadays students are spoon-fed. During our time only those who really struggled and put in hard work were able to study,” says Mrs. Sainju.

One of the happiest days of her life was the day when the SLC results were announced. (Back then it was done through the radio.) Though, the moments of joy weren’t free of some melancholic memories.

She remembers one particular instance. Excited about her result, she went running enthusiastically to one of her relative’s home to declare her result. To her utter dismay, the relative, instead of offering congratulations only gave her a sour look. “Her reaction caught me completely off guard and I was so hurt by it,” shares Mathura.

Unhindered by such reactions, Mathura joined Mahendra Ratna College, Illam, after SLC and completed her I.A (Intermediate in Arts) from the same college. She was 18 when she finished her intermediate level studies. By then most of her friends were getting married. Mathura, on the other hand, was preparing for further studies. She was determined to get a Bachelors degree and become a teacher.

Although pressure started mounting from her relatives to get married, Mathura was stern in her decision to put marriage off until she finished her studies. “I told them that until and unless I complete my Bachelors degree, there is no way I am getting married,” says Mathura. Her relatives soon realized her serious inclination towards education after she rejected a number of suitors, including one from a distant relative of the royal family.

After convincing her mother, she carried her

education forward and completed her B.A (Bachelor in Arts) from the same college. Subsequently, she moved to Kathmandu to receive her B. Ed. degree; the degree she yearned for throughout her student life. Attaining the degree was the first step towards her lifelong vision to play an important role in the field of education.

Mathura’s maiden step into the field of education was as a volunteer teacher in Bal Mandir. She worked there for two years. The fact that Bal Mandir didn’t have a building, instead of discouraging her, intensified her determination to impart knowledge to the children who needed it the most. Gathering kids from every nook and corner of the village, Mathura would seat them in a circle and begin her lessons. Although it was her childhood dream to go to different villages and educate children there, she couldn’t do so due to her commitment as a vice-principal of a school in Kathmandu. Mathura’s professional career began when she was appointed the vice-principal of English Preparatory School (E.P.S) in 2035 B.S. Besides overseeing the Lagan sect of the school, she also taught English and continued doing so till 2063 B.S. After working for 35 years at the school she decided to take a break from it due to ailing health.

“I did everything I could for the school and its students and most of my students are doing well. Some of them still remember me and it makes me proud that I have played a role in their lives,” says Mathura gleaming with pride.

Having always dreamt of dedicating her life to education, after she retired from the school she felt she could not just sit back. So, in 2006 she opened Acton Pre School with the aim of providing pre-school kids with good base. “The education system in Nepal is still not developed. Instead of practical knowledge, teachers pressurize students to mug up the whole book which is completely wrong,” opines this veteran educator.

“Although there are few students here, we provide them good foundation which is the most important thing for students. I know they will all do well wherever they go from here,” says Mathura.

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Be inspired/ Mrs. Mathura Sainju

“Studying wasn’t as easy as it is these days. Nowadays, students are spoon-fed. During our time, only those who really struggled and put in hard work were able to study.”

In forty years of her teaching experience, she has seen a change in the students from her generation to the students of present generation in the way they behave with teachers.

“Earlier students were more respectful and devoted towards their teachers. But these days, students have misplaced pride that makes them think since they are paying for being taught, they need not respect teachers.”

Mathura’s journey is full of ups and downs, but fortunately she could always lean on her family for support. “I was blessed with a family that stood by me through the thick and thins of life.” When she finally decided to tie the knot, she found a husband who motivated and encouraged her to do things she wanted to. She never had to hear a ‘no’ for an answer from him.

She misses him terribly as he is no longer present in this world.

“But I still feel his presence in each and everything I do.”

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When asked why she decided to dedicate her life to education, she says, “I always wanted to contribute to the society. By educating students I knew I could bring a change in the society and that is what I wanted all along.” As a woman who dedicated her entire life to the field of education, she has an advice for fellow teachers. Mathura says, “You cannot change a student by punishing them. School is like a second home for them; teachers should always love and care for their students the way they would do for their own children.”

“Earlier students were more respectful and devoted. But these days, students have this certain pride, they have this attitude that we are paying so why should we respect teachers.”

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navyaata/PEOPLE

Bhuwan KC on Role Reversal in Life and in Films

by Dolkar Lhamo Photographs Phurpu Tsering Gurung

“Professionally, I take all

actors equally, so I don’t have a favourite co-star. About finding somebody challenging, my work is my passion; I am in love with my work, therefore, I don’t bother much about other things.

Bhuwan KC is a name that needs no introduction. Heartthrob of the years gone by, Bhuwan KC has maintained his charisma even with our generation. Enjoying his retreat from an active film career at present, he exudes a cheerful persona, and there is an unmistakable aura about him of somebody who has lived life to the fullest.

navyaata/PEOPLE

Bhuwan KC has had his share of ups and downs as a young lad struggling to find a place in the world. He started as a singer (yes, you read it right!) in Radio city.

Jage jage sara raat was one of his popular songs. He also worked as a tour officer for six months. Finally, he got a modelling opportunity in Mumbai which served as an entrance ticket into the film world. He got several offers to work in Pakistani and Bangladeshi movies and acted in some. He has also done lead roles in some Sri Lankan movies. Nearly three decades of serenading for Nepali film lovers and over a hundred movies in lead roles later, time was ripe for him to give the film industry back what he got from it: experience. Bhuwan KC, therefore, established Kajal Production, a production house that has already made its mark by producing some of the best hit films in recent history. With someone as Bhuwan KC as the force behind the production house, the success should come as no surprise. He gets to the film studio at wee hours and spends his day there keeping an eye over the editing of the movies.

For this interview, we met Bhuwan KC at Shambala Garden. He showed up in black and brown tee, tucked inside blue denims, and shiny black shoes. He looked way younger than his age.

What is Bhuwan KC proud of?

People might have a lot of money, buildings, cars, land, property and powerful posts, but when it comes to Bhuwan KC, he is proud that people love and instantly recognize him wherever he goes. That is a wonderful feeling you can’t buy with any amount of money.

Tell us about your work schedule?

In this profession, there isn’t a fixed schedule. There are times when I have to work 24 hours straight, and there are also times when I would have nothing to do for six months.

You have a fetish for shopping, right? Which is your favourite brand or store?

You are right. I shop a lot when I travel. I don’t have a favourite brand or store. If something catches my fancy, I purchase it. I don’t care about the price, it might be very expensive or cheap, I get it. One thing I like to splurge on are cars. I don’t like owning the same car for more than a year.

And what is your style funda?

I am definitely stylish. I have my own way of talking, walking, dressing and interacting. I was trendy right from my younger days and I am till now (smiles). My style funda has no name, but I can say what makes me stand out is my style.

I am definitely stylish. I have my own way of talking, walking, dressing and interacting. I was trendy right from my younger days and I am till now Tell us about your family and how you manage to spend time with them despite your hectic routine?

I have three children. The older ones, Kajal and Bibek, are pursuing their studies in the US. My youngest son, Anmol, is currently doing his A Level at Malpi International College. I keep in touch with my older children through phone calls, and Anmol is always with me.

So it is 3 children and you who are ‘family’?

I get what you are trying to say. I have been divorced for almost 7 years, but the good thing is that my ex-wife and I are still good friends.

Whenever there is something for me to do in her projects, she approaches me and I do the same. We are divorced and live separate lives, but the relationship hasn’t soured one bit.

Your son Anmol, what do you see in his future? Do you want him to follow your footstep?

I neither force nor expect my children to follow my footsteps; I let them choose their own paths. Bibek wants to become a businessman and Kajal is studying law. Anmol is definitely interested in movies. As his father I will definitely help him in whatever way I can.

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navyaata/PEOPLE

When I am totally used up, I listen to music to revive. Watching good movies and spending time with family and friends are my ways of dealing with pressures.

Do you party and hangout a lot?

I don’t have the regular Friday nighters because I am the kind of person who works according to his frame of mind. I do feel like clubbing and dancing wildly with my folks, and when I do it people are amazed to see that part of me. I sometimes just barge into restaurants and sing Dohori songs.

I can’t tell you if I have a particular place or a group of people I love to hang out with, but sometimes, if I feel like it, I just tell my driver to stop the car and get into a local microbus just to enjoy the company of common folks. At times, when I don’t feel like it, I don’t go to attend a party at a minister’s residence and just sleep at home.

Who do you usually hang out with?

I don’t have the “so-called” best friends. I travel alone and it has been more of a habit now. I love to hang out with people with same opinion as mine.

It could be a complete stranger I encounter during the course of the day. He becomes my best friend for that day.

Who is your favourite co-star and who do you find challenging?

Professionally, I take all actors equally, so I don’t have a favourite co-star. About finding somebody challenging, my work is my passion; I am in love with my work, therefore, I don’t bother much about other things. I don’t have time to think who my challengers are. The one thing that matters to me is my audience’s reaction. As far as I know they’ve always loved my work and have supported me.

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From the time you entered this industry till date, what changes have you wanted to see?

We have to do something about the storyline. All of them have trite formula: revenge, family drama, love, romance, etc. Every person in this world has more or less the same love story. I want our film industry to present the stories in a different light and to present Nepali movies in a way that is wellreceived by film lovers all over the world.

How do you overcome the pressures of your hectic work schedule?

When I am totally used up, I listen to music to revive. Watching good movies and spending time with family and friends are my ways of dealing with pressures.

Can a person expect a good career out of the Nepali movie industry?

My experience tells me that there isn’t any field which promises a good career until and unless you are determined to make things happen for you. The rule applies to all the fields. There are thousands of people who want to become an actor, but only desiring isn’t enough. You have to put in a lot of hard work, be always open to learn and outshine others.

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the POWER of TWO They say opposites attract. But for Navyaata’s power couple of the month, it was their common liking for music that brought them together.

Ciney Gurung and Rojesh Shrestha, the musically talented couple, share their story as they reminisce about the time they first met and get candid about what they like and dislike about each other

By Tsering Dolker Gurung PHOTOGRAPH BY PHURPU TSERING GURUNG

We were so much in love that we felt we need not worry about the future as long as we were together.

C

iney Gurung was born and brought up in Kurseong, Darjeeling. A town credited for producing many talented musicians, Darjeeling had yet another reason to feel proud with Ciney’s foray into music.

I

n 2005, she released her debut album “Yo Maan”. It was during the making of this album that she met her future husband Rojesh Shrestha, the vocalist of X-mantra. Before she started her singing career, Ciney taught English at Galaxy Public School. It has been more than four years since she quit her job as a teacher, but she feels someday she might just go back to teaching because she misses her students a lot.

A

man of few words, Rojesh Shrestha expresses himself better through his songs. He is the lead vocalist of the heavy metal band ‘X-mantra’. Rojesh, in Ciney’s words, is the most loving, understanding and patient human being on the earth. She says he makes excellent Choyela, which is one of Ciney’s favourite dishes. Rojesh worked as a graphic designer for an advertising agency before devoting himself totally to music. Rojesh’s stage performances have always managed to draw audience. Currently, he is working on his next album with the band.

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Couple: Ciney Gurung and Rojesh Shrestha Tied the knot on: May 2005 Kids- No kids but both of them wish for a daughter in the future

How did they meet?

While Ciney was working on her first album, her producer approached X-mantra to compose a song for her. X-mantra arranged a metal song, but the composition made Ciney quite nervous. As her songs belonged more to the pop-rock, funk genre, she wasn’t sure whether the one composed by the band would work for her. Though initially she hesitated to discuss the matter, slowly, as she began to get along well with the band, she confessed her anxiety to Rojesh. After that day, they became friends and began to see each other more regularly over tea and coffee. “Though we started seeing each other much later, both of us had felt the vibe at the very instant we met,” says Ciney.

That explains why within a short span of time they went from becoming strangers to very close friends and eventually a married couple, after one fine day when Rojesh popped the big question. We were so much in love that we felt we need not worry about the future as long as we were together.

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What do you like about each other?

Rojesh- She is very good at making Mongolian and Indian cuisines and that’s one thing I really like about her. She tries to bring something new every time to tickle my taste buds. Isn’t that amazing! From momos to thukpas to thenthuks, she cooks everything for me.

Ciney- He is not fussy at all, especially about food. I can’t stand people who fuss unreasonably. Rojesh doesn’t complain about anything and that’s one quality that I really admire about him. He is very understanding and loving.

What do you dislike about each other?

“I hope he loves me all the same even when we grow old” -Ciney

Ciney- He is a bit careless at home. He carelessly throws his personal belongings around the house and, like a young boy, expects somebody else to take care of them.

Seeing things lying around irritates me. Other than this habit, I love everything about him.

What is special about him/her?

Rojesh- There’s nothing about her that I dislike.

and he has never raised his voice or been angry at me. He is really cool and never grumbles. Also, he is very humble. He goes around vegetable shopping with me. Isn’t that sweet!

Any song that reminds you of each other?

Ciney- It may not sound very romantic but a song we did for a climate change gig is very memorable. One more song that I did with X-mantra called ‘timilai chune haath’ is also very special. But the song that defines our relation has to be ‘As long as you love me’ by the Backstreet Boys.

Rojesh- Many. We have over 200 songs done together and I can’t tell which one is more memorable in that way.

What is the best gift you flattered one another with?

Ciney- Recently, we had gone to Delhi. During the trip he bought me a designer sari, which I simply love.

Ciney- He is very patient. We have been married for five years

Rojesh- She has this ability to captivate people with her performance. When we are performing gigs at restaurants, people who come to eat are enthralled. Many of them actually stop eating to listen her singing.

How often do you fight?

Ciney- We never sulk at each other. Whenever we have problems, we speak it out. If I have done something wrong I apologize, and so does he if it is his mistake.

For instance, if he doesn’t like something that I did, he lets me know. We both think holding up discontents makes matters worse.

Is there anything common between the two of you?

Rojesh- Right before we got married, she gifted me a

green T-shirt on Valentines Day. That was like five years ago. Even though it is worn out, I still wear the T-shirt because it reminds me of the time when we were trying to convince our parents to let us marry.

Ciney- Obviously music… and the size of our tummy at the moment!

One thing you wish you did just for one another?

Anything you’d like to change about each other?

Rojesh and Ciney (both laughing out loud say)- We both need to lose weight. We have been bingeing a lot lately. This year we plan to shed all of our extra pounds.

Rojesh- Ahmmm… Ciney jokingly says: He wishes I wash his socks because the lady who works for us doesn’t wash the socks properly.

Ciney- I hope he loves me all the same even when we grow old.

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AS H W I N 2 0 6 7 • N AV YA ATA 19

I really regret it now:

It was during my ninth standard, I was doing my secondary schooling in Delhi. Every year after our first terminal examination and before our Dashain vacation we used to have Annual Sports Meet. During that sports meet I lost the earring that I was wearing. I got to know about it in the dining hall. I was scared that my mother would know about it and scold me. When I was home for the vacation mamu asked me “Timro earring khai?” I was so scared and all of a sudden I replied, “Pratistha took it.” Pratistha was my class mate and my father’s good friend’s daughter. Mamu didn’t say anything then. Later when Dewali was over, and it was time to go back to Delhi we met Pratistha and her parents’ in the airport. As we were waiting for the flight mamu out of nowhere asked about the earring. Pratistha was shocked and replied that she didn’t have it. Mamu got to know the truth and I was embarrassed in front of my friend, her parents and my mother. I wish I hadn’t lied to her and had told her the truth.

Trouble managing budget:

Things can get really worse when you spend without thinking. My parents were in the States and I was home alone with my brother. God, even today when I think about that day, I can’t stop myself from feeling dim witted for what I was up to back then. It was the end of the month and I was running out of money, I was thinking of asking my mother to send me some money. That same day the uncle who rents our ground floor asked me whom to give the rent. I quickly said, mummy has asked me to collect the money and I took the rent from him. I spend all the money on stupid stuffs, the same thing happened the next month. By the time my parents got back home I had already used two months rent that was 22,000 rupees. My mother got to know about it and got really angry with me. I got a big lecture on how I should start controlling my expenses and how hard it was going to be after I go abroad. But after a day all was fine.

Rista Sharma Lagankhel

Manisha Raj Bhandari Baluwatar

Shhhhhh!!!!!!!!

I was in Bangkok doing my Diploma in Digital Film Making. Now, because Thailand is a place where you cannot work part time and make money like other foreign countries, I used to get my pocket money from my parents. My parents would send me ten thousand baht every month for my expenses. One day a high school friend sent me a mail and asked me to lend her ten thousand. She said she was in a really big trouble and she needed the money desperately. I didn’t want to, but even then I sent her the ten thousand from my pocket money. That month I spend really less for food and other expenses. I didn’t let my mother know about it because if she knew I would be in big trouble. I never got my money back and my mom never figured out the thing.

Roshni Rajak, Jawalakhel

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No money for tuitions

Way back when I was in high school, my Grade 12 exams were approaching and all the students were busy trying to take as much tuitions as possible. I was a good student and I didn’t really think extra tuitions were necessary. Nevertheless, me and my friends decided to take Mathematics tuition as it was one subject that I needed help with. We went to talk to the teacher and he said his fees for 12 days, one hour per day would be two thousand rupees. I asked my parents for the money and next day went to school with the tuition fees in my pocket. It was a regular school day; classes, break, classes and lunch break. It was during lunch break when some of my juniors whom I was close with came over and asked if I wanted to hang out after school. I really didn’t have any money except for what was meant for my maths’ tuition. Deep inside I knew it was wrong but I agreed to go out with them. We went for a movie, ate at a restaurant and roamed aimlessly and in the process I spent more than half of my tuition fee. Reaching home I was nervous and guilty at the same time. I couldn’t tell my parents about it. So, the next 12 days, the time where I was supposed to be attending classes I spent at my friends’ places passing the time. I didn’t score well in Mathematics exam and till date I haven’t told my parents about it.

Shiva Ghimire Swayambhu

HAPPY HOUR BINGE

I never intended to get drunk. We went out to celebrate a friend’s birthday. We thought we’d have a few drinks but then it was happy hour and we received more than we ordered. After the extra round, we ordered more, by then, already singing dilly-dally. A couple of drinks later, I passed out in the washroom. A friend took the drunken ones out to the balcony to get some fresh air, only to watch us have a puke-mania right there. I had puke on my hair, on my feet, on my clothes. I passed out again and lost my cell phone and all the money I had. I woke up at eight that evening on a messy floor and was greeted by a restaurant guy with a most disgusted look. I remembered that I had to get to my gran’s place because she was ill and being the only grandchild, she wanted to see me real bad. I couldn’t make it there that day and it turned out, she had waited for me throughout, hoping to dine together. I swore I would never go back to that restaurant out of sheer embarrassment and being the goody-two-shoes of the family, I just couldn’t shake the guilt off.

Biso Bangde, Thamel

Navyaata Magazine

How To Wear...

Slim Fit Jeans

Photograph by Kishor Kayastha Style by Sharmila & Akash Rajbhandari

What started as tough, blue trousers to cater the need of the gold miners of Coloma, California, during the 1850’s, today, has become an act of rebellion, a pop icon with universal appeal and most importantly, that one item in our closets which we absolutely love. Our greatest appreciation to Mr. Levi Strauss and Mr. Jacob Davis! What would stack our closet if it weren’t for you guys? Jeans, as we know, have gone through more transformations than any other unique garment. From, Straight and Low Rise to Distressed and Embellished, the options are limitless.

And with the Korean Wave sweeping the whole of Asia, the current rage among the KTM Guys is certainly the Slim Fit Jeans. Here’s Navyaata’s Guide to sporting the highly popular Slim Fit Jeans.

Style 1

Style 2

A biker jacket with jeans, now that’s certainly gonna get you some attention!

A plain vest and a check shirt is a rubric for the “Cute Guy Next Door” look.

22 N AV YA ATA • AS H W I N 2 0 6 7

send us your feedback at editor@nav yaata.com

How To Wear... Slim Fit Jeans

Levi’s Slim Fit Jeans, Ds Collections, Sherpa Mall, Durbarmarg Biker Jacket, Cardigan & Party Shirt, Homme, Royal Singi Plaza, Vest, Check Shirt, Vans & Loafers, Model’s Own.

Style 3

Style 4

A cardigan and loafers paired with slim fit jeans make for a perfect “semi formal” wear.

Pair the jeans with a party shirt and a trendy pair of Vans and you’re sure to steal the show at any weekend party!

Photograph by Kishor Kayastha

Model-Siddhartha Kazami Shakya

send us your feedback at editor@nav yaata.com

AS H W I N 2 0 6 7 • N AV YA ATA 23

Metallic Bangles, DS Collections, Sherpa Mall

Carry Bag, DS Collections, Sherpa Mall

Scarf by H&M, DS Collections, Sherpa Mall

Key Loops, DS Collections, Sherpa Mall

White Tee by Converse, DS Collections, Sherpa Mall

Shades by Mango, Marque, Sherpa Mall

Distressed Jeans Shorts, DS Collections, Sherpa Mall

Key Loops, DS Collections, Sherpa Mall

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Wedges, DS Collections, Sherpa Mall 24 N AV YA ATA • AS H W I N 2 0 6 7

send us your feedback at editor@nav yaata.com

3rd Floor, Shop-T27 City Centre, Kamalpokhari, Kathmandu Phone: 4011707 Email: cocktail27@gmail.com

MENS

White Tee by Zoo York, DS Collections, Sherpa Mall.

Cardigan by H&M, DS Collections, Sherpa Mall

Duffel Bag by IP Zone

Wallet by Zara, Marque, Sherpa Mall

Jeans by Guess, DS Collections, Sherpa Mall

Hand Sanitizer by Amway

Tribal Silver Rings

Notorious Fragrance Set by Polo Ralph Lauren, DS Collections, Sherpa Mall Sneakers by Osiris, DS Collections, Sherpa Mall 26 N AV YA ATA • AS H W I N 2 0 6 7

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SEVEN DAYS Aditi Budhathoki

WARDROBE

FIX Style: Sharmila Photograph: Phurpu Tsering Gurung

Colleges are no longer the place you went only for gyan. With that, gone are the days of long sessions of classroom hours where you sat dumb wearing those boring attire. With our college routine crammed with presentations, orientations and get-togethers, attaining right attitude and expertise for outside-the-classrooms activities is crucial. Learning nowadays, therefore, is about balancing right education with mastering the right skills. And not to forget, dressing perfectly for all these situations to get people to notice you.

All ready for PE sessions.

28 N AV YA ATA • AS H W I N 2 0 6 7

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* All of the above featured items are available at DS Collections, Sherpa Mall *

A talk programme with an important personality at Radisson.

Meeting with the club members to discuss details regarding an upcoming event.

A long day of extensive classes and assignments.

Attending a fund-raiser party organized by the college.

Enjoying a casual day out with college buddies.

MODEL BIDDHYA RAI

The day of the presentation.

send us your feedback at editor@nav yaata.com

AS H W I N 2 0 6 7 • N AV YA ATA 29

Navyaata/MAKE-OVER

THE POOL PARTY LOOK

How do you make up when you go out to a pool party or to a cool bash with your friends?

Will you stick with the same hairdo and the same eye shadows and get along with the old you?? The pool party look is something that you can’t ignore or miss this season. Our hair stylist, Santosh Kr Sharma, and make-up artist, Sumitra Maharjan, team up to bring its effect on our model Surakhsha Basnet.

HAIR:

Items needed: Round hair brush, hair dryer, and hair spray.

Comb your hair and part your hair into sections according to the thickness of your hair.

If your hair is wet, then dry with a blow dryer.

Set your dryer to high heat and speed setting.

Using a round hair brush, pull section of hair and wrap the ends of your hair around the hair brush and hold hair in place using your thumb.

Run the dryer up and down the sections of your hair.

Leave the hair for about 5 minutes.

Unroll the wrapped hair.

Scatter hair spray around the hair for better setting.

Make-up

What they used and how they did it

Our model what she has to say: I feel cool, the make-up gives me the sense of coolness and the hair, on the other side gives me a matured look. I love this.

Thanks Navyaata!

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• Apply 62, Hydralight foundation as a base.

Instead of a sponge, a foundation brush gives a better coverage.

• Use 82, light touch Concealer to any blemishes or marks on your face.

• Layer your skin with 69, oil control compact.

• Apply 38, eye shadow quartet on your eyes and then, apply 63, waterproof aqua splash eyeliner to your eye shape.

• To reshape your eyes, use 1, Inliner Kajal.

Draw it into line of your eyes.

• Apply black, wonderful Mascara on your lashes.

• Apply 44, Bronzing Powder on your face especially on cheeks which gives your skin a sunkissed look with every application.

• Finally, apply 114, perfect Moisture Lipstick on your lips and layer it with 29, moisturizing lip gloss.

send us your feedback at editor@nav yaata.com

Tips: • Blow dry depends on the type of hair you have and the style you need.

• If your hair is wet, dry it with a towel before setting.

• Rubbing frizzes your hair and might even cause damages, so avoid it.

• To add volume to your hair, you can unclip front section of your hair and starting at the front of your head, place the round brush under your hair and pull the section straight up and then roll hair back towards the scalp following your hair dryer.

• To set your hair and to make it smooth and shiny, change the blow dryer to cool setting and go over all your hair.

Model: Surakhsha Basnet Make-up Artist: Sumitra Maharjan, IsaDora Showroom Hair Stylist: Santosh Kr Sharma, Headmaster, Thamel (The above mentioned products are available at IsaDora Showroom Durbar Marg and Bluebird Mall.)

FASHION REPORT

That Favorite Pair of Chuckies!

by Akash Rajbhandari

Call it the ‘it’ shoe, a must have or that one pair of sneakers you simply can’t do without! For all we know, a pair of “Chucks” isn’t just a shoe. It is a story of legends. An immediate trendsetter, an inspiration for millions to assert their individuality, Converse never fails to captivate the spirit of fashion. And that goes for every product the brand creates.

To date, more than 750 million pairs of Converse’s “Chuck Taylor” All Star sneakers have been sold, making it one of the bestselling shoes in history. This milestone was something Marquis M. Converse couldn’t have dreamt of when he first opened the doors to his Massachusetts based Converse Rubber Shoe Company in the year 1908. If one were to believe the rumors, it was tripping from a ladder that hurt both Marquis and his pet donkey, Seabiscuit, that sparked an idea of producing rubber soled shoes that could prevent people from slipping.

The turning point for this rubber shoe company came in the year 1917 when it introduced its first basketball sneaker, the Converse All Star. A year later, a young basketball player named Charles H. Taylor (Chuck) entered one of the Converse stores complaining of sore feet. It was then, Taylor put on his first pair of All Stars and popularized them throughout the American Territory as his athletic shoe. What started as a basketball shoe, today, has branched far from its athletic origins to become a style statement, a pop icon and a favorite among punk rockers, rebels and not to forget celebrities. Avril Lavigne, Gemma Ward, Sandra Bullock, Ellen De Generes, Orlando Bloom, Hayley Williams, this shoe’s certainly got a long list of A-listers as its clienteles.

Coming to Nepal, its appeal needs no introduction. Not a day goes without you spotting someone strolling down the streets donning these shoes. A favorite among the youths of Kathmandu, a pair of Converse’s a must have in everyone’s shoe rack. As for choices, you’ve got endless options to choose from. From the classy “John Varvatos” pieces catered to please the brand savvy folks to the “One Star”, Grunge Guru Kurt Cobain’s favorite, Converse offers something for anyone and everyone.

The good news is it all gets better this September! From the 10th to the 25th of September 2010, the Converse Store at the Kathmandu Mall in New Road is having mega sale where you can pick items for 30-70% off. Fellow, KTM-ites, it’s a deal y’all should “Certainly” not miss! Happy Shopping!

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navyaata/RUNWAY

RUNWAY THE NAVYAATA WAY Style By Sharmila

Does denim spell purely casual for you? Time to rethink, gals!

It’s about time you get those denim pieces out of your closet and wear them for the evening out, because with this season’s offerings, the LBD’s certainly got a tough competition. Team with a pair of urbane heels and the perfect metallic accessories and you’re sure to be the best-dressed in any ‘so-called formal’ event.

Denim Dress, DS Collections, Sherpa Mall Brown Wedge, DS Collections, Sherpa Mall Metallic Chain & Accessories, I See It First, Sherpa Mall

Photographer: Phurpu Tsering Gurung

advertisment by navyaata magazine

Visit us for a world of exclusivity, sophistication and classic designs created by our creative director Vivek Upadhya

3rd Floor Annapurna Arcade, Durbarmarg, Kathmandu, Nepal Phone 9721415802, 014223482 email:beatification@gmail.com www.barsinternational.com.np

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navyaata/trends

R O S A L I N I

R O S A L I N I

R O S A L I N I

R O S A L I N I

R O S A L I N I

R O S A L I N I

R O S A R I N I – ABSOLUTE NECESSITY

Imagine you iron your clothing and head out for the day. Lots of things to do at the office and you run around to execute the things in your to do list! Where is the time to keep grooming

yourself in the middle of all this? Your clothing gets crumpled, hair strands are out of place, makeup fades away and looking at yourself in the mirror drains your energy. Then suddenly you are required to attend a very important meeting!

Have you ever wished for clothes that need not be ironed and stayed wrinkle free? These kind of sticky situations always remind you that you must always be prepared for everything in life. These are the reasons why you would need Rosarini in your life. Rosarini’s own signature wrinkle free Matt Jersey fabric makes your life easy and your wardrobe manageable. Their classic pieces are comfortable, gracefully draped and stylish too!

Kathmandu’s vibrant fashion scene recently saw a welcome addition of Rosarini International, a brand founded by Karen Scheinecker and known in Hong Kong for its comfortable yet sleek and classic styles in a vast range of sizing. This brand is Australian by design and based in Hong Kong.

These clothing are so comfortable that they can be used for all occasions – travel, maternity, sports, work and evening. The colours of the fabric have been chosen very carefully to make them as versatile and practical as possible. The beauty of Rosarini is that all of the pieces look simple but when one actually wears it, it makes a woman look elegant and gorgeous in no time! What is unique about this brand is that it offers size 6 to 22 which is very difficult to find anywhere in Kathmandu or Hong Kong for that matter.

These fantastic styles have been created to make women look ultra feminine without compromising on the quality of the garments. These designs will follow your body contours, slim you down, and trim you without having to go through those torturous fad diets and extremely humiliating sets of exercises. We ROSARINI would only like to inspire you to come up with your own ideas and to let your creative energy take the ABSOLUTE lead. With Rosarini as a tool, everyone is their own designer and with a little bit of imagination you can NECESSITY come up with different ways of wearing the same piece of garments.

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Go Branded & look Stylish this Season with ROSARINI....

navyaata/guide

It’s All in the sack: A Guide to carrying the right bag Akash Rajbhandari

From spacious cases to the perfect totes, here’s Navyaata’s guide for the guys who are on the look out to purchase that perfect bag as only a few things say as much about a guy’s life as the bag he carries!

Entrepreneur For a self-made man who lives, travels and works in his own terms: a compact stroller and an elegant case to complement the business man’s corporate lifestyle. Enter Mode et Professional!

Artist

Levi’s Leather Bag Price on Request At Sherpa Mall, Durbar Marg

For a man who lives his life outside the office and is all about exploring and expressions: a sturdy, carry-all bag, something to fit anything and everything he needs and nothing he doesn’t.

Samsonite Vanquish Leather Briefcase Rs. 31,525/Samsonite Praxix Rolling Tote Rs. 21,195/At The Samsonite Store, Durbar Marg

Media Person Athlete For the man who is all about sports, working out and not to forget, attracting the ladies: a large duffel that carries all his essentials from sport kits to the toiletries.

For a techno savvy chap who is lucky enough to not have to spend endless hours over work in a fitting suit: a spacious, gadget-friendly bag with decent compartments is a must. After all, gadgets are a man’s best friend!

Puma Ferrari Replica Shoulder Bag Rs. 5,950/-

Reebok Duffel

At The Puma Store, NLIC City Center, Kamal Pokhari

Rs. 5,999/- Rs. 4,499/- (After 25% Discount) At The Reebok Store, Durbar Marg

For the Teenagers Assorted and experimental!

From school day back packs, the urbanely fashionable messenger bags to an everyday tote, guys, y’all, certainly got a lot of choices!

Infinity Void Leather Wallet Price on Request At About You, Sherpa Mall, Durbar Marg 40 N AV YA ATA • AS H W I N 2 0 6 7

Giordano Tote Style No. 140039 Rs. 2350/-At Giordano, Sherpa Mall, Durbar Marg send us your feedback at editor@nav yaata.com

Reebok I3 School Messenger Bag Rs. 5,399/- Rs. 4050/- (After 25% Discount) At The Reebok Store, Durbar Marg

Glitter Box NLIC CITY CENTER, 3RD FLOOR SHOP No. T21 PHONE: 014011522

SUBSCRIBTION Be a Navyaata Subscriber and WIN Exclusive deals!!!

Be a Navyaata Subscriber

&

WIN EXCLUSIVE DEALS.

WIN Exclusive

deals!!!

Subscribe Now: subscriptions@navyaata.com

We are happy to announce a spectacular offer for our subscribers!

Every Navyaata Subscriber will get a FREE bottle of wine when you dine at the Borderline Cafe, World Trade Center, 1st Floor.

Get up to 15% discount every time you shop from these selected stores: Attitude

Headmaster

Cocktail

Mesuca

DS Collections

Plum

Fabulous

Sphinx

Temptation

up to

15% to 25%

SPECIAL

OFFER!!!

How to get started: - E-mail us at subscriptions@navyaata.com and be one of our lucky subscribers - We will deliver your ‘subscriber card’ at your door - Take the card and go to our exclusive stores mentioned above.

- SAVE up to 15% to 25% on your shopping extravaganza.

42 N AV YA ATA • AS H W I N 2 0 6 7

SAVE

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Now get up to 25% discount every time you shop at The World Wide Fashion, People’s Plaza, Shop no. 510

Because every Navyaata subscriber deserves special PRIVILEGES!

Abhinandan Shop # G3 NLIC CITY CENTER Kamalpokhari kathmandu Nepal

navyaata

A

Pearl

in the Ocean of Junk Photographed By Kishor Kayastha

Style By Sharmila & Akash Rajbhandari

S

trong and bold colors come to life this season all with the perfect textures, patterns and accompaniments. With “Contrast” as the motif here’s a photo spread that is set to differentiate sheer elegance from banal, chic from edgy.

Floral Top, Black Shorts, Patterned Platforms, DS Collections, Sherpa Mall

navyaata

Patterned Gown, Studded Leather Platforms, Metallic Accessories, DS Collections, Sherpa Mall 46 N AV YA ATA • AS H W I N 2 0 6 7

send us your feedback at editor@nav yaata.com

Black & White, the two opposite extremes, reflects authority and innocence at the same time, with a pairing that can never go wrong.

White Top, Bolero Jacket, Black Leggings, Studded Wedges, Sherpa Mall send us your feedback at editor@nav yaata.com

AS H W I N 2 0 6 7 • N AV YA ATA 47

48 N AV YA ATA • AS H W I N 2 0 6 7

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Purple Gown, Metallic Bangles, DS Collections, Sherpa Mall send us your feedback at editor@nav yaata.com

AS H W I N 2 0 6 7 • N AV YA ATA 49

NAVYAA PROFILE

BELIEVES

IN SIMPLICITY & WORKING HARD

Model, airhostess, and now a banker. Noyo Singh is proving to be “the master of all trades”. At just 28 she has carved a name for herself in all the sectors that she has been involved. Read on to know more about this sassy diva.

PHOTOGRAPH BY KISHOR KAYASTHA

Name: Noyo

Singh Status: Verrrrry Busy ;) Age: 28 Height: 158 cm Profession: Banker Strength: Patience We a k n e s s : S l e e e e e e e e p …

Nothing can make me give up my sleeeeeeeeep..

Fetish: Fragrances

Define the following in one sentence.

Love:

My inspiration to live.

The most important factor for living.

Money: Career:

A pathway to success.

Sounds cliché but a friend in need is a friend indeed.

Friends:

Enemies:

jealousy.

Are born out of

Is an art. I love creating my own style.

Fashion:

Formal for

Formal or Casual:

sure.

Shahrukh or Salman Khan:

None.

Politicians or Business people:

Business people.

Success or love:

Success.

A fit body or good skin: Good skin.

A girls’ night out or candle lit dinner:

Candle lit dinner.

High heels or flats:

High heels

Modelling or acting:

Your:

Modelling

Most embarrassing moment:

People try to embarrass you by passing comments without understanding your potential and without knowing the time and hard work you spent for achieving something. It has happened to me too.

When my parents and my family members feel proud of me and my work.

Proudest moment:

First crush:

school.

When I was in

Technology is always helpful, am happy that I get to know about my friends all over the world.

to ask my mom when was the first time she kissed me?

Lipstick or lip gloss: Lipstick.

Fragrances.....

Shoes or bags: Shoes.

Current ring tone: My cell phone is in silent mode ALMOST all the time and I get scolding for missing the phone calls because of that.

Facebook:

Your choice

Shopping

Holidaying.

or

holidaying:

English or Hindi movies: 50 N AV YA ATA • AS H W I N 2 0 6 7

Both.

First kiss: Have

Biggest splurge:

Watches and

send us your feedback at editor@nav yaata.com

Favourite shopping spot: Delhi........

Recently heard a lot about EGYPT. I’d like to explore its ancient monuments.

Dream holiday getaway:

Your fashion icon: Catherine Zeta Jones & Mark Wahlberg Favourite brand: I am not very brand conscious.

Magazines that you flip through:

Cosmopolitan, Vogue, Healthy Living & Navyaata...

1.

One thing that you don’t have but wish you did?

I seriously wish I was a little taller.

2.

If you weren’t a model, I would

a successful flyer.

be

3. The best thing about being a woman is you get all the attention.

4. One quality that you would like to see in your husband.

There are many. But most importantly he should be open about what he wants in life and respect me for who I am.

5. While I was growing up I always got teased about my nakhraas.

6.

The most favourite part of your body is my waistline.

7.

Noyo Singh is a strong woman who believes in simplicity and has learnt to live life as it comes.

I think all of us should take hard work as Destiny.

send us your feedback at editor@nav yaata.com

AS H W I N 2 0 6 7 • N AV YA ATA 51

In Love With the Person or the

by Sumati Maharjan Photograph Shishir Maharjan

Tsering, 26, runs family business.

Elina Shahi, 21, a student at Ace College of Management.

Prashit Humagain, 21, a student at Shepherd College of Media Technology.

With more and more people queuing up outside foreign embassies for the coveted stamp on their passport, it is not surprising that an increasing number of Nepalese are leaving the country and living far and away from their loved ones. For a long distance relationship to survive it requires much more than just keeping in touch. Courage, patience, trust and, most importantly, love is what can make it work, or so, say our young and well-informed youth in an interaction organized by Navyaata.

52 N AV YA ATA • AS H W I N 2 0 6 7

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Sasheet K.C. 20, a student at Shepherd College of Media Technology.

“If two people are truly and deeply in love, nothing can come between them and the interest level or the chemistry between them will never grow weaker�

What do you think is responsible for the increasing number of people in long distance relationships?

Prashit: The means of communication is

getting better. As a result a lot of people fall in love and date through internet sites, regardless of the physical distance separating them. Also, people going abroad, either to study, settle down or work, has made long distance relationships an indispensible part of our lives.

Elina: I think more and more people are okay about long distance relationships because of the internet boom and the growth in all kinds of social networking sites where people can meet, socialize and even date. A lot of people have started going abroad, so long distance relationship is here to stay and people must learn to come to terms with the trend.

Can a long distance relationship work?

Elina: So many people are in long distance

relationships these days, especially the people our age. Though the number of such relationships surviving the inherent odds isn’t very encouraging, the fact that people are giving it a try can’t be denied. Personally, I haven’t seen any couple who have pulled

Tsering: Well, I think long-distance relationships are not as difficult as people believe them to be. It is all about how much you love the person and the extent you are willing to go to keep the relationship alive. If you ask me, it works; it has in my case.

Do long distance relationships last and end up in marriage eventually? Or, if married couples are involved, does it end up in divorce?

Elina: I think there are many other factors

that determine the fate of two people in love apart from the distance. I believe people grow fonder of each other when they are separated as the longing increases with distance. In some cases, however, the consequence can be utterly opposite. I have yet to come across any married person who got divorced because of a long distance relationship. But I know some people who got married even after living apart for years.

No matter which part of the world you live in, I think it is possible to communicate, if you are really committed. it through till the end. The only basis for continuing their relationship is the slew of communication channels available to them.

At least it helps to keep the bond intact by allowing the couples stay in touch.

Prashit: I agree with Elina when she says that it is very rare for the couples to survive the inherent odds in a long distance relationship.

First of all, the two individuals are not together and then there are the mysteries about your partner you can never get full answers to. What is she doing when she is not talking to you? How does he or she really feel about you? With so many odds to grapple with, communication technologies can only keep them together for so long.

Sasheet: I am not so optimistic about the future of any long distance relationship. I think it takes a lot of courage, patience and effort to make it work. I believe it is impossible to convey your love virtually. And as long as you can’t be there with your partner, there is always this empty space, the emotional gap that you can never fulfill, unless you are a magician.

Sasheet: There are few chances for a long distance relationship to end in a happy note.

A lot depends on how the individuals involved adjust to the changed circumstances and maintain the same love and affection during the time they are away from one another.

Honestly, I feel most people find it difficult to carry on in such relationships. So there are high chances of their falling apart. With married people, I think it is a different story altogether. The bond in a long distance relationship is too superficial to have any real impact on the married life.

Prashit: A relationship is all about constant

sharing of your views, feelings, and being there when you are needed. But in a long distance relationship, all these are not only difficult, but next to impossible to keep up. I think it is rare for a long distance relationship to end up in a marriage. For married couples in long distance relationships, I don’t see why they would separate if they have a solid bonding formed over the years they spent together.

send us your feedback at editor@nav yaata.com

I believe it is impossible to convey your love virtually.

And as long as you can’t be there with your partner, there is always this empty space that you can never fulfill, unless you are a magician.

AS H W I N 2 0 6 7 • N AV YA ATA 53

“If somebody I love sings for me over the phone, or sends virtual gifts like flowers, cards or even letters while chatting online, I would find that romantic” Do you think it is easy to convey what you feel to the person on the other side of the world? How? Elina: Well, for me, conveying what I feel to a long distance partner is easy as long as I am connected to the internet and have a mobile phone.

Sasheet: I think communication in a long distance relationship is not as easy as it sounds. The difference of time zone and obligations to work and study makes it difficult for people to convey what they feel, most of the times.

Prashit: It could be problematic to convey

what you feel to the person who is living on the other part of the globe. Communication through internet and phone calls is there, but they are not always reliable, and you are always going to miss the verve of talking face to face.

Tsering: I have personally seen people who talk to each other as often as possible and convey their feelings through phone, chats and by posting messages on social networking sites. So, no matter which part of the world you live in, I think, it is possible to communicate, if you are really committed.

With your loved one far away, aren’t there chances for a person falling for somebody else and losing interest altogether in that person. What do you have to say about this?

Sasheet: I have been a witness to such incidents where people, who are physically near, lose interest in their loved ones and cheat on them for someone else. The possibility of a person falling for another person is high in case of those in a long distance relationship.

What holds a long distance relationship?

Prashit: I believe you never lose interest in your beloved, if he or she is near you. But if you have to live away from each other, you might lose interest in your special one and fall for somebody else for no special reason.

Prashit: Trust, mutual understanding and pocket loads of money.

Tsering: If two people are truly and deeply in love, nothing can come between them and the interest level or the chemistry between them will never grow weaker. Only those who are in true love, stick to each other. To them, even marrying is not all that important. I don’t agree with the saying ‘Out of sight, out of mind’.

love through phone calls and sending emails might help to hold a long distance relationship.

Sasheet: Patience, trust, regular communication and money to make frequent calls can hold a long distance relationship.

Tsering: Trust, trust and trust. A lot of phone calls and chatting goes a long way in maintaining that.

What are the romantic ideas for

expressing your love to a person in long distance relationship?

Elina: If somebody I love sings for me over the phone, or sends virtual gifts like flowers, cards or even letters while chatting online, I would find that romantic.

Elina: I don’t agree with this statement. I

mean, people lose interest in one another even if they are physically near. It is all about your attitude and affection for the person you are in a relationship with. Just look around and you’ll find so many people hopping relationships even when they are physically close.

54 N AV YA ATA • AS H W I N 2 0 6 7

Elina: Trust in each other and expressing

Tsering: Sending gifts and cards occasionally to a person that you like is a romantic way to express your love

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Parcha Productions, taking Nepali talent to a whole different ‘wonder.’ The Parcha team skypes with Navyaata all the way from UK. BY- Tamding Sherpa Photographer- Gyan Gurung

Nawal Rai (21) enjoys live painting, making parodies of Indian and Nepali movies and, at times, acting in his own parodies.

Navyaata- What is the concept behind Parcha

Navyaata- How do you find time for Parcha, given

Productions? What motivated you to choose the name

that you are students and working part time?

‘Parcha’?

Sameer- We usually meet over lunch at the Uni or

Nawal- Parcha Productions is all about promoting

on our days off and discuss what’s out there.

undiscovered Nepali talents from all over the world. They

Nawal- Or if we have work, we meet in the

might be from the fields as diverse as photography, music,

evening and try to pull some late nights. We’ve

art or sports; we find them and make them familiar to the

actually converted Bikrant’s flat into our office. (All

people.

three laugh)

Bikrant- Well, the name ‘Parcha’ is a funny one and a

lot of people ask us about it. It popped up during a conversation we were having. We thought ‘Parcha’

Navyaata- Can you share with us the process you

is an encouraging word in our language, one that is

go through in finding the Nepali talent?

appropriate for aspiring talents.

Bikrant- Our main tools are the internet, the local

newspapers, the magazines and the Nepali radio.

Navyaata- What inspired you to start Parcha Productions?

There are tons of talented people out there. We

How did you get together for this project?

try and find their contact details and contact

Sameer- We think there are lots of hidden Nepali talents

them directly before we promote them.

out there that get blotted out in want of a platform to show their abilities. We decided to do something about it.

We’re all friends that go to the same university and we see a lot of each other.

Bikrant- Yes, and since we had similar thoughts about this,

we decided to get together for this venture.

Navyaata- A little bit about each of you?

Nawal- I just finished my first year in Fine Arts and I have

been doing a lot of Live Paintings lately. Other than painting, I enjoy making parodies of Hindi and Nepali movies.

Bikrant- I’m a third year student of architecture and other

than that I love photography.

Sameer- I am studying for a degree in Business

Accounting. Out of the Uni I’m SEXY SHISHI! Samir Gurung (22) aka SEXY SHISHI, loves BBoying besides acting as the lead in Nawal’s Indian parodies

Navyaata- What are the difficulties you are facing to run this venture, given all of you are based in London?

Bikrant- As with all new ventures, ours has had its share

of trials and tribulations, but not because of the location.

The Internet has been a great source for us and has really brought everyone closer together.

Navyaata- Besides Parcha Production, your joint venture, are you guys engaged in other individual projects?

Nawal- Well, I make short films and parodies, Sameer is a

BBoy, and Bikrant has his photography.

Navyaata- Out of the many discoveries you have made, which one has been your favorite?

Chick Flick Movies

Bikrant Pakrin (21), loves photography and recently turned his flat into the PP office.

Navyaata- Do you guys plan to come back to Nepal and do something from here itself?

Nawal: Errr… It’s hard to pinpoint one individual and

Nawal- Yes, Definitely. Sometime very soon, probably in

compare him or her with the rest. But if I had to pick one,

2011.

I’d go for Sunil Garbuja from Australia, whose voice I’ve been a big fan of recently. But I love Subash Thebe’s

Bikrant- We’ve got a lot of things in pipeline for our Nepal

trip. Programs like charity events, for example.

paintings too.

Sameer- Our main goal is to bring out the talent from

Bikrant: Umm… Like Nawal said, we can’t really single out

within the Nepali community. Where can we find a bigger

one of them and call him or her our favorite. We promote

Nepali community than within the country itself?

them because all of them are special in their own way. But the ones that stand out for me are Sanjog Rai and Tenzin

Navyaata- So are you going back to the UK then?

Norsang (aka Soulja).

Nawal- We are based in the UK, so we have to go back.

Sameer: Yes, it’s very hard to pick one as a favorite, but if I

But we do have people working from Nepal as well. And

had to choose, it would be JPT Rockerz or Teena Rai.

like we said, our goal is to help the Nepali community

worldwide; therefore, we have to be able to reach out Navyaata- So is Parcha Production a talent management agency?

Sameer- Well, not really. We don’t do this for a profit. We

are only focusing on talent and encouraging people who

internationally.

Navyaata- Parcha Production is becoming popular among the young Nepali crowd? Was that your ultimate goal?

have it by providing them support with all the mediums we

Sameer- It wasn’t our ultimate goal, so much as a medium

have.

that allows undiscovered talents to be heard or seen. But

Bikrant- We have organized around 5 ‘Parcha’ events

we definitely want our project to be well known worldwide

such as ‘Aaunai Parcha Nepali New Year Party’ and

so that people can reach us easily.

‘Nachnai Parcha Dance Party’ to finance talents that we have discovered

Navyaata- Any words of wisdom for fellow Nepalis aspiring

Navyaata- I am sure there are cases where people must

Bikrant- Just do what you love doing. Give your best

have approached you to get themselves promoted?

regardless of what people say and one day people will

Nawal- Surprisingly, Not. It might be because we have just

respect you for your resilience.

to be something in their own fields?

started out. But we think that most Nepali people aren’t

Nawal- Oh and like Dr. Seuss said, “It’s a question of mind

comfortable about approaching projects like ours to show

over matter, the people that mind don’t matter and the

what they’ve got.

people that matter don’t mind”.

58 N AV YA ATA • AS H W I N 2 0 6 7

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navyaata\speeches

“Champions are truly made when they

learn the art of turning

failure into

success.

- Richard Branson

Richard Branson revolutionized the way brands were created and perceived. Branson published a magazine when he was just 16. But he didn’t stop there. After opening a record store, Virgin Records, on Oxford Street, London, Richard Branson moved on to virginize a host of other products and services. Today the brand Virgin is associated with Virgin Atlantic, an international airline; Virgin Megastores, music super-markets; Virgin Books, publisher and distributor of books; V2 Music, largest UK based independent recording label; and Virgin Credit Card. In a speech given at The Centre for the Mind, University of Sydney, on 10th December, 2003, Sir Richard Branson speaks on what makes a Champion.

Thank you Allan for those kind words and thank you all for coming along today.

I appreciate that at this time of year there are probably a number of Christmas events that hold a great deal more appeal than hearing me talk about my life as an entrepreneur and businessman.

I would particularly like to thank Professor Snyder, Robyn Williams and Professor Brown for the invitation today.

Attempt the Impossible I have been lucky enough to receive a number of awards in my

lifetime. It is safe to say that as a 16-year student who needed to borrow £4 off my mother to launch my first business venture such awards seemed highly unlikely. But, then again, at 16 it also seemed highly unlikely that I would have the opportunity to rub shoulders with a band as great as The Rolling Stones or even fly around the world in my own jumbo – or nearly around the world in my own hot air balloon for that matter.I guess it is somewhat ironic that, as someone who never went to university and who even struggled at high school, I find myself being presented with this award in the grounds of The University of Sydney. My business or management education has come from trying and succeeding – and even from trying and failing. It is also very humbling to read that Nelson Mandela is the Millennium Fellow for the Centre. Nelson Mandela has achieved so much for the people of South Africa and is such a wonderful ambassador for his continent that to receive an award from an organisation with which he is associated is a true honour.

It wasn’t until I read that the Centre for the Mind exists to “shatter mindsets and stage-manage spectacular initiatives” that I understood why I am being presented with this award at all. After all, the Virgin Group of companies exist to “shatter mindsets” about how customer service should be delivered and how products need to match consumer demands. And whether I am driving a tank up to a Coke sign in Times Square, or flying solo around the world in a contraption floating 60,000 ft above the earth’s surface because of hot air, I guess that I am always trying to be ‘spectacular’. So now I understand why I am here.

We have all heard countless examples of champions who recount stories of being told by the establishment or by so-called experts in their field that something can’t be done. I am sure that Sir Edmund Hillary heard many times, “that mountain can’t be climbed”. Or when Tiger Woods is told, “no male golfer can win a grand slam” I am absolutely sure that motivates him to work even harder. And when Virgin was told that it couldn’t create and operate a profitable trans-Atlantic airline from scratch, it motivated me to get the airline up and running in just six months – and we haven’t looked back since.

Today, Virgin Atlantic is the second largest long-haul international airline operating services out of London, flying to 21 destinations all over the world from Shanghai to the Caribbean and soon Sydney.

“I have always had a policy of hiring good motivators over good business-people. I always look for executives that put their people first and themselves last.”

Allan has asked me to provide you with my thoughts on how creativity has been important in the growth and success of Virgin and has also, somewhat unkindly, asked me to share my views on ‘What makes a Champion’. I have always admired champions – whether in the field of sport, science, business or the arts – who attempt the impossible.

60 N AV YA ATA • AS H W I N 2 0 6 7

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Turn Failure into Success Being unafraid of failure is, I believe, one the most important

qualities of a champion. My interest in life comes from setting myself huge, apparently unachievable challenges and trying to rise above them – an interest that was, perhaps, fuelled by my grandmother telling me at the age of 99: “You’ve got one go in life, so make the most of it”. Whether I succeed or fail in meeting the challenge is immaterial – it is the effort and the opportunity that drives me. I truly believe that through effort and I guess to some extent risk, success is waiting around the corner regardless.

However, while champions aren’t afraid of failure, they are truly made when they learn the art of turning failure into success. The only time I could ever be compared to Johnny Wilkinson is when we were both four and I hazard a guess that neither of us could kick a football. He is a champion now because he learnt how to do it.

Innate talent and skill are certainly important. As is hard work and perseverance.

In addition to that, my recipe for success has always been to understand my limitations and to surround myself with talented and brilliant people that can pick up where I leave off. And, most importantly, to have fun on the journey. One definition of a champion, as far as I am concerned, is somebody who can empower people’s ideas in order to fuel success. It is no secret that I have always attributed the success of the Virgin Group and its brands to the people that work for our company. I have always had a policy of hiring good motivators over good business-people. I always look for executives that put their people first and themselves last.

Champions are Self-less So, in many ways I believe champions are self-less. They also are quick to put their faith in others. When a flight attendant approached me several years ago with an idea to start a wedding business, I told her to go and do it and even wore a wedding dress to help her promote it. When Brett Godfrey approached us with a business plan for a low cost Australian airline, written on the back of a beer coaster, Virgin provided the finance and the optimism and sent him to Brisbane to get on with the job. Human intellectual brilliance comes in many forms and a champion knows a brilliant idea immediately – whether it is theirs or someone else’s. The mind which can develop life-saving vaccines is very different from the mind which structures complex financial transactions, yet they are equally complex and amazing in their own right. I have always been fascinated by intellectual brilliance in others - whether it be a concert pianist like Roger Woodward or a military strategist like General Peter Cosgrove or a medical miracle worker like the late Dr Victor Chang, or even the mental toughness and adaptability of Steve Waugh. Brilliant minds exist to take us forward as a society they are a leading indicator of our progress as human beings. My own formula for success is actually not to rely on any brilliance in my own mind, or at least not to solely rely on it. I have decided all the way through my life to surround myself with people I know have that something special within, and to harness that brilliance for my own benefit and experience. My business team has always been the best and brightest I could find anywhere in the world, and my role has simply been to assist them to achieve their potential.

Brett Godfrey is a great example of that philosophy. Here was a success story waiting to happen - a brilliant business mind with a specific interest in customer service. All he needed was support and

financing. That’s where we came in.

And that has been the case with many other special minds I have been lucky enough to know. Even the Sex Pistols were brilliant minds in their own way - people underestimate their ability to communicate a social message through their music. Virgin saw that they had something special and decided to back them, and they went on to change the way we looked at rock music. So a life of being surrounded by brilliant and creative minds is something that has been good to me. I recommend it as an approach to business, and life in general, because it works. If I could leave you all with one message today it is that Australia must examine ways to support brilliance and bring it to the fore - particularly in the realm of business and commerce.

Australia is a country which plays well above its weight in producing brilliant minds. From the superb research skills of Sir Howard Florey to the creative genius of Baz Luhrmann, Australia has stunned the world with its contributions to all fields of endeavour.

The great challenge that I can now see for Australia is to harness that brilliance as a force for good in business. Can Australia encourage its young people towards a new spirit of entrepreneurialism and the embracing of risk to create economic benefit for the future? Can we teach Aussie kids that Brett Godfrey is a good role model - a man who has, through a simple set of very brilliant ideas first sketched on the back of some beer coasters, created thousands of jobs for his fellow Australians, and an investment vehicle to create wealth for many hundreds of thousands of his countrymen. Can we create an educational and cultural environment where young Australians understand that it’s OK to take a risk and invest in their own enterprise and vision?

Can we assist them to create the jobs and wealth of tomorrow?

It’s a subject that occupies my mind, and I hope that I can use my ongoing investment in and love affair with Australia as a way of encouraging that new entrepreneurial spirit.

Before I finish and take any questions you may have, I want to touch on the issue of creativity, especially the role that creativity has had in building the Virgin Group into the success it is today. I mentioned Baz Luhrmann before, and I truly do marvel at the creative genius he possesses to turn the conventional Romeo and Juliet of William Shakespeare into the Romeo and Juliet of Leonardo Dicaprio and Clare Danes. While establishing Virgin Records, we witnessed firsthand the creativity of Mike Oldfield and Peter Gabriel, and the unconventional Rolling Stones and The Sex Pistols. It was during this time that we realised the important counter balance between CREATIVITY and CONVENTION. In developing the Virgin business our enemy has always been convention. At Virgin we firmly believe that convention is the enemy of progress. It stifles creativity and innovation. It hinders success and destroys a sense of adventure.

However, when it comes to other businesses, we have found that people usually bow to convention over creativity.

convention stifles creativity and innovation.

navyaata/trends

KUNAL Flooring and Furnishing ‘Home is where the heart is’ goes the saying, more so if your home is furnished to the best of your liking. But often furnishing a home becomes a challenging task as every member of the house has varied opinion about what looks best. Whether it is colour of the carpet or the type of curtains that are going over the windows, every minute detail makes a difference. To all those who are putting their plans to furnish their homes on hold in want of better and wider options, Kunal Flooring and Furnishing comes with a host of choices.

Kunal Furnishing boasts a huge collection of designer Curtain Fabrics, Carpets, Parquet, Sofa Set, bed sheet, bed covers, quilts, tassels, fringes, and so on… The store offers variety as its products are imported from different corners of the world. While the carpets are imported from Belgium, Dubai and the Middle East, the fabrics are brought in from India, Thailand and Belgium. The Parquets (floor coverings) on the other hand are imported from Germany and Switzerland. If you want high quality furniture and furnishings that would make them even better, Kunal Furnishing is the place to visit as it also offers customized furniture manufactured in the country.

Known for offering ‘world class service’ to its clients at a reasonable price, Kunal Furnishing offers consultation service as well. Along with homes, the store handles office furnishings and has been successful in carving a niche for itself in the market. From corporate houses to individuals, Kunal Furnishing has a diverse clientele range. In sync with its slogan “Design your Dream” the store has been successful in turning dreams into reality for its clients.

Established in 1989 with its first store in Tripureshwor, it has been two years since Kunal Furnishing has moved to its current location Bhanimandal in Ekantakuna, Jawlakhel.

Call Kunal Flooring & Furnishing at 5546386 and 5546387 or direct your queries to kunal@mail.com.np. To know more about the store and products on offer log on to www.kunalfurnishing.com.

62 N AV YA ATA • AS H W I N 2 0 6 7

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-Dikshya

e the Day, they mad On the Sports first e tra march th school orches eat gr g I was doin thing that day. my g in ld ho n was except that a pi ing ak m of se cour skirt up. In the s, rm zens of unifo dozens and do ts en m y measure they got m ze o girls my si tw wrong and as w I irt sk the could fit into id. sa ey th d, in m wearing. Never ed id and march sa I d, in m er Nev as st Ju . drumbeat forward at the f ie ch e th ing past we were gett n w do g in id sl skirt guest, I felt my ent I imagined, w , at th ce at a pa d an d . I grabbe with the beat e m sa e th ying at pulled it up tr ck ba n pi ty e safe time to put th y irt fell below m sk e th re on befo to d ly, I struggle knees. Natural the the march as keep up with ers gg da n looked sports captai e I tim e th se, by at me. Of cour w, f back to the flo brought mysel e w n as over. Whe the march w e th a tr e orches performed th d ul co I t, es chief gu next time, the e. at m swear, winked

MY S -I Hate Magicians 75

-MBMJ

There was th is history teac her in our scho was already ol ol, who d enough to re tire. He was in in the school famous for his egotis tical attitude about his real and lying age. “I’m youn g at heart,” w favorite dialo as his gue. There is this particula that tickles m r incident e to the bon e even today as he came . One day to our class w e saw that hi zipper was un s pants’ done and th e was clearly vi sible. Everyone white underpants in the class ch while they st uckl ruggled to ho ld themselves ed laughing ou t loud. He st from arted teachi one dared to ng as no inform him about his w malfunction. ardrobe We could ha rdly concentr what he was ate on saying. Finally , I stood up an ‘Sir your zipp d said, er is open!’ Th at instantly fla nerves and he red his yelled at me like mad, as me who actu if it was ally loosened his zipper. ‘W have to say th hy do you at in front of ev er I didn’t answ er that, but en yone?’ he shouted. ded up laughi even louder ng out . The whole classroom th with the laug undered h riot that ensued. The left the clas teac sroom totally flustered. From her onwards, whe never he saw then me, he alway check his zip s used to per.

64 N AV YA ATA • AS H W I N 2 0 6 7

Whenever I come across the word ‘magician’, I am always reminded of a very embarrassing incident that took place during my school days.

As the long holiday break drew close, the management at school decided to organize something really special for the students. And what exactly did they decide on? A magic show! How exciting! We were eagerly waiting for the show to begin and the moment the clock struck 5:30 p.m., all of us swooped into the Hall. I was shorter than the rest of my peers, so I always took a front seat. After showing some of his usual tricks, he called out for a volunteer. Many juniors enthusiastically raised their hands and screamed their names, but the magician decided to pick a volunteer himself. After some searching in the crowd, he pointed his finger at me. My bad luck! I thought. With everyone’s eyes fixed on me, I nervously climbed on to the stage and stood beside the magician. He took a black hat from a table next to him and showed it to the audience to prove that it was empty. He then turned towards me and said, “Kid, now think of anything you want. Don’t tell anyone about it though because I am going to take that thing out from this hat.” Hoping to baffle the dumb magician, I thought of an enormous school bus. Now, he couldn’t pull that trick off, could he? I was actually smiling all the way for putting the magician on fix. The magician jabbered something for a few seconds and began swaying his so called magical wand around the hat. He then placed his hand inside the hat to pull something out. I was already feeling sorry for the poor guy because I was damn sure it was not going to be a bus. I had already started giggling. The next thing I heard was the entire audience bursting into a guffaw. To my shock, I saw the magician pull out a red bra from nowhere. All I could remember after that was the magician’s nasty grin. My cheeks turned red with embarrassment. To vex me further, the magician actually asked me, “Wasn’t it that what you were thinking of?” Seven years has passed since then, but I still get teased about that incident. Thanks a lot, Mr. Magician!

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MY STORY

-Sujan,18

One day o ur E and researc nglish teacher asked h a few top a ics on the In ll of us to go to the and went library ternet. She away to re c left us on o eive an im to the scho ur own portant vis ol for insp itor who h ection. As sick of rese ad come can be pre arching an dicted, we d the netw and anyth so on got o rk ing else th at made th denied facebook, yo googled th utube e internet, is certain n INTERNET. asal singer wig has re So we with his sig placed it th nature cap ese days) a the class. (a weird nd mimick In an atte ed him thro mpt of be the chair a ing very fu ughout nd announ nny, I jum ced that I w you-know ped on to as the num -who and took a sole ber one fa my dying d mn oath to n ay. remain the of Mr. or even sm To my disappointm same till ent, I foun iling at m d no one la y joke unti teacher an ughing l I turned d the very around to important I don’t kno se v e my isitor stari w what sh ng at us in ocked the chair and m the mo h o oath-takin rror. st— g or the fa hard fan o ct that the my climbing the f the singe re is actua r. lly a die-

STORY -Kat 12 XoXo!

Every time I think of my school days, a very particular memory associated with ‘Gumboots’ comes into my mind. Yes, Gumboots! The rubbery boots all of us sport once the rainy season starts. This particular incident I am going share with you has nothing to do with the rain. Instead, I remember that day being perfectly sunny. The classes got over at 3:30 p.m. as usual and with that followed, god have mercy on us, the dreadful Compulsory PE sessions. Oh! How I hated them! To avoid the dressing down we usually got from our PE teacher, who lambasted us for not taking sports activities seriously, we decided to give the sports hour a slip. Come on! It’s not like bunking classes. We intentionally lingered on at the mess hall for about 30 minutes and sneaked into the dormitory later, after everybody else. And yes, we did it! There was no sign of any other girls or even the House Mistress when we made our secret entrance into the hostel. We had the dormitory all by ourselves, and with nothing better to do, we just fooled around. A friend of mine suddenly ran up the stairs without saying a word, and we simply followed her. We all stopped on the 4th Floor in front of a massive room which we all knew as the ‘Storage Area.’ Nothing so interesting in it though! The room was full of suitcases and back packs here and there and a long row of gumboots, stacked aside for the rainy days which hadn’t begun. Impulsively, I picked one of those gumboots and flung it at one of my friends. She was stung by the suddenness of it. She threw the boot back at me which hit me right on the face. For the next couple of minutes, we were all laughs because playing pranks around the hostel without getting caught was great fun. Well that was what we thought until, out of nowhere, we heard the House Mistress’s screaming, “Girls! What are you doing in the hostel at this hour of the day?” Ok! This is not good! And to make things even worse, one of my friends at that very moment threw a gumboot towards me which I managed to dodge. But, to our horror, the boot-missile banged on the Head Mistress’ head! We couldn’t suppress our laughter for which he had to pay dearly. We ended up in the Principal’s office who made us suffer an eight hour long detention.

navyaata

Khaney Kura sidhina lagyo

By Sumati Maharjan

(The food stuff are about to finish)

Photograph by Shishir Maharjan

Malai mero naniharuko bhavisya ko barema chinta lagchha (I am concerned about my children’s future)

F

or him, dawn breaks when the city is still blanketed in darkness and most people are still in bed, dreaming. Every day at 3 in the morning, Bal Bahadur Lama, 34, wakes up and gets ready for work.

His job—though he does not like to call it a job—is collecting garbage and wastes in the streets of Thamel and nearby areas. With an aluminum trash bin fixed to his old bicycle, Bal Bahadur paddles as fast as he can as he goes around hunting for garbage. The trash people throw, ironically, hold the value of treasure for him.

The rubbish and wastages ensure at least a meal everyday for his family.

Father of three, Bal Bahadur Lama came to Kathmandu two years ago from his home village, Kavre, leaving behind the life of hard struggle where he barely managed to survive. Here in Kathmandu, his wife, Niri Maya Lama, 31, has her own job too—sifting plastics and wearable clothes and other could-be-handy objects from the trash collected by her husband and brought to a dumping site in Dalkhu.

Life still looks unsettled and hazed for the couple. Their earning put 66 N AV YA ATA • AS H W I N 2 0 6 7

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navyaata\Make A Wish

together amounts to Rs 2000 a month, half of which goes as rent for a room in Teku. Bal Bahadur has the challenge of sustaining his family for an entire month on the remaining 1000. This is one reason why his kids are yet to see the face of a school.

“Malai mero naniharuko bhavisyako barema chinta lagchha,” Bal Bahadur whispered, as the crease on his forehead became more visible than ever. He has three children aged 7, 5 and 1 years.

When we told him about Navyaata’s ‘Make a Wish’ column,

A borrowed kerosene stove, an old and cracked cooking pot, a small bed and the empty walls pretty much summed up what life Bal Bahadur’s family of five was living.

MAKE A WISH 1

2

4

5

the lines of distress disappeared from his forehead as his face lit up with joy. He urged us to visit his rented room and see what we could do for him.

Once we reached there, we realized that if his job was dreary, his room was just as dismal. A borrowed kerosene stove, an old, cracked cooking pot, a small bed and the empty walls pretty much reflected the miserable life of Bal Bahadur’s family.

We got him a new kerosene stove and a pressure cooker from a store in Teku to begin with. “Khane kura siddhina lagyo,” he said when we asked what else did he want. So we got him a bag of lentils, few packets of biscuits and snacks and a Lactogen pack for his toddler.

Carrying all the food stuff, he very humbly told us that he couldn’t believe in what was actually happening. When we asked him if he wanted anything for his children, his reply was – some clothes. We went to the D.S. collection store in Durbarmarg with Bal Bahadur and his two children. The youngest one stayed back in the room with his mother as he was not well. With a pair of clothes, shoes and toys for each of them, the children seemed happy like never before.

After the shopping spree, we decided to go for lunch. We asked Jog Laxmi, the eldest child, to choose a place for eating out. Clumsily, she pointed to a nearby restaurant. We went to the restaurant and asked Bal Bahadur and his children to order the food. Soon the table was full of delicious looking naan and curry, chips chilly, rice and chicken momo. We enjoyed a hearty meal together. We also got some of the food items packed for his wife.

As we bade farewell and were about to part, Bal Bahadur smiled and said “Swaraga ma pugey jasto lagyo, Dhanyabad.”

3

6

7

1. Bal Bahadur buying food stuffs from a store.

2. Pulses or grains? Bal Bahadur decides to get grams instead.

3. Bal Bahadur finally got a kerosene stove and a pressure cooker, that he can call his own.

4. “we haven’t had such a good lunch for ages.” Bal Bahadur exclaims.

5. Getting out of a cab in Durbarmarg, heading toward DS Collections store.

6. Jog Laxmi is all smiles in her new dress.

7. Amit with his new look, gives a striking pose.

8. “ I’ll cook something for you.” Niri Maya gets her hands on her new belongings.

8

Slice of Life/Personal Essay

The Demon

By Amendra Pokhrel

“MOMMYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY! I HAVE FINISHED DOIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIING!” shouted the kid.

“God, have I given birth to a demon!” mommy yelled back. The demon wanted mommy to help him out of the toilet and wash up. In our clustered neighborhood his shrills spread like shockwaves, and every morning we’d wake up to the cries of the little neigh bor. Since his arrival, many of us in the neighborhood had stopped setting our wake-up alarm.

When the family came to live there, he was only three. But he thought and acted like a grown-up. He did, at least in his view.

He thought himself above the kids his age and preferred the society of elders. The older, the better! He would discard the group of kids to lollygag around the group of guys his older brother’s age. And then quit them to join the group of men his father’s age, as they gathered on the street for a regular evening gabfest.

He loathed thumb-sucking-shorts-pulling kids, and despised the discussions his brother and his friends often had about films and movie stars. Instead, he would listen to the serious discussions of older men, intently. You’d see him stand in their circle, folding both hands across his chest, his grave face making a slight bow as if trying to conjecture something.

In the circle of weighty phrases, pithy sentences and articulate paragraphs, he stood somewhere as a miniscule comma, silent and almost imperceptible.

Occasionally he permitted himself some leniency. When kids gathered around some elders to share stories and jokes, he would insist that he be the first one to tell a joke. And you had to let him. The moment he heard, “Okay, go ahead”, beaming, with a full smile of a joker plastered on his face, he would prattle so quick and loud, kids laughed. His narrative, from start to finish, without a comma, fullstop, paragraph change or intonations of any sort, sounded like a commentary in the last leg of a Formula-1 competition. Kids didn’t understand a word, but laughed all the same. He fancied himself a great comedian.

He could make you laugh, comedian or no. For example, when one day I asked him to spell out ‘A,B,C,D up to Z’ he asked me, “Which one do you want to hear, small or capital?!” That made my head spin. Then I laughed. Never thought it that way, did you?

When he was of age, mommy decided to send him off to school and thought the experience might help subdue some of his demonish tendencies. He went happily, but returned sullen faced from the school the very first day. “Go and find out what’s the matter with your son,” mommy said to papa and, letting out a helpless sigh, added, “I can’t deal with the demon”. It was no use getting him to talk or do anything, when the kid didn’t want to. The next morning everything became clear.

I DON’T Want to GO! Why not? ‘Half-pants’ looked disgraceful in front of some other kids in class who wore ‘full pants’. “Okay!’ said papa, trying to suppress the smile that was threatening to burst out as laughter. “We’ll get you full-pants tomorrow, but you’ll go to the school today, okay?” “I am not going to school wearing those shorts,” said the kid. “Okay, okay. You’ll go to school wearing another pants and we’ll get your dress-pants tomorrow. I’ll talk to your teacher.”

Aha! What a sweet revenge would it be to stand out from the crowd and flaunt your best pant while others stood wearing their lousy shorts and dress-pants.

The kid returned that day with a teacher close at heels. “God, what the devil has he done now,” said mommy with an inaudible shriek.

“Ma’am, excuse my harsh words but your son acts as if possessed by a demon,” said the teacher. “He is only 3, but he bullies the whole class. He beat up some other boys and threw their tiffin–boxes. The principal says the school will take him only if he shows some mildness in behavior. Consider it a warning, but if he does not change, we’ll have to expel him.” That night mummy and papa decided to send the demon to his aunt who lived in a different town.

The next evening, nobody in the circle of the old men detected the deleted comma. Jokes and stories among the neighborhood kids continued as usual. The only change was the sound of alarm clocks ringing merrily again in the stillness of each new morning.

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Hit-and-Miss in Pokhara ot many of us are lucky enough to get a free weekend getaway in the first few months of work. And those of us who do, what chances do we have to bump into someone who we adore and deep within have always wished to meet someday? I guess the possibility ranges from rare to nil. But this wish did come true for me during my recent trip to Pokhara. Pokhara, a place much loved by Nepalese and foreigners, has always been a favorite among KTM-ites looking for a quick retreat. Bestowed with scenic beauty and made even better by the locals, the ring of Pokhara never fails to bring a smile to my face. When my friends and I heard that our boss was taking us to this magnificient holiday spot, we were all excited beyond words. The fancy restaurants by the lake, dreamy boat rides, and the picturesque view of Mt.Machhapuchre was all we could think of. Never in our wildest imaginations did we think we would come across a Bollywood celebrity in this exquisite lake city.

After a tiring eight hours bus ride, we finally reached our destination. Whoever said tourist buses were a better option for the commute probably had a lot of time in their hands. Because for us it was a boring, lengthy journey made even lengthier by unnecessary stops at roadside eateries. Initially, we were all worried about the weather as monsoon showed no signs of stopping. But, the weather seemed to favor us and Pokhara welcomed us with shiny rays of the sun. The first day we were all too tired to roam around but we did manage to get out of our hotel and stroll around the lakeside. Phewa Taal about which we were all so enthused disappointed us badly. The lake which used to be serene and lucid has suffered badly due to recent showers and heavy lumps of mosses growing everywhere in the lake. Our first day at Pokhara wasn’t at all as what we expected. The only satisfactory thing about our first day was the delicious dinner we had and with our stomachs happy we headed back to our room.

A good night sleep rejuvenated us and we were all ready to explore this beautiful town the following morning. As we all had different opinion about where to go we split into different groups. While few of us headed to Guheshwori cave the rest went back to lakeside. My friends and I explored the Guheshwori cave and just as we were about to exit the cave we got a call from our friends at Lakeside. They were screaming with delight, “We just saw Purab Kohli. Oh my God! You guys missed it.” Cursing our luck, we set for our next destination: Davis Fall. Just as we were approaching the entrance we got another call. My friends had spotted Purab yet again but this time he was at a restaurant having his breakfast. Without any thought I and my friends got into a cab as fast as we could without even visiting Davis fall and directed the driver towards the “Once Upon a Time restaurant” where Purab was seen. Within minutes, we reached the place but to our dismay, Purab was nowhere to be seen. After questioning the waiters there we learnt that he had just left moments ago. With heavy hearts, we returned back to our hotel. After 2 days of great food, live music and awesome views, we set to return back to home.

The whole ride back we were all discussing how we missed the chance to meet an Indian actor cum VJ, citing our bad luck. The bumpy ride on the Microbus did nothing to ail our saddened hearts. After 3 hours of ride we finally stopped at a small eatery. We were all tired, sweaty, hungry (as we didn’t have the time to eat breakfast) and looked just as pathetic. While we were preparing to get down all of a sudden I heard my friend scream “Purab!” As we looked outside the window we couldn’t believe our eyes. There was Purab, standing tall and handsome. Out of all the places we could meet him at Pokhara, we ended up seeing him at a place where we would least expect him to be.

Nervous as hell, at first, all of us were hesitant to approach him but we finally did and asked him for a photograph. He chatted with us for few minutes and we couldn’t stop giggling like a bunch of silly teenagers. I didn’t fail to convey him that I had been a big fan of his since the days he used to act in ‘Hip Hip Hurray’, a serial which used to be broadcasted by Zee Tv. Soon, it was time to bid good bye which none of us wanted to, save Purab. He must have been surprised by a hound of crazy fans asking him for an autograph in the middle of nowhere but he was sweet not to show so. A hundred times happier than we were before we met him we sat down for lunch. After that you can guess what happened. The whole ride back we kept flipping through our picture with him and saying to ourselves “God is present. Although late, God does fulfill our wishes.”

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navyaata\extra Crazy Uses of Cola (the classic one)

Cola is not only great to drink; it also has many uses around the house. This list has been tested with the classic Cola, not the diet or any other variations that are available.

Clean a burned saucepan by pouring Cola into it and heating the pan. This takes out all the stains.

If you dye your hair and the result is too intense, flat Cola will help to lighten it.

It’s quite easy to make a modern photograph look like an old sepia one. Just lightly brush the photograph with cola and let it dry quickly. Don’t wet the photo too much or it will buckle.

Photocopied black and white pictures make great looking “antique” prints, if you treat them in the same way. Maps, photocopied and treated this way, look fantastic in antique style frames.

Rusty bolts can be loosened by soaking a rag in cola, and wrapping it around the bolt.

Leave the bolt for a few hours and it will be easier to move.

Pour Cola into your kettle and leave all day. This will remove limescale and leaves it clean inside.

Clean you’re jewelery in a glass of Cola.

Brush them with a toothbrush and rinse well. (Not recommended for valuable items, or those with gem stones in them.)

Flat Cola helps to settle upset stomachs.

Don’t use fresh, fizzy Cola as this could irritate the condition.

(Take the fizz out by adding a little sugar, if you need to.)

Give old coins a soak in Cola.

This gives a brilliant shine for collections and decorative items.

Put Cola into flat wide dishes in the garden and it will help to rid your plants of slugs.

They are attracted by the sweet smell and once they fall in, they can’t get out.

Flat Cola makes a good hair conditioner. Pour it over your hair, rinse and dry.

CAFE & BAR

Chaksibari Marg, JP Road, Thamel, Kathmandu, Nepal, above Fire Club email: reggae bar_ktm@hotmail.com

navyaata/music

Astha Tamang Maskey

By Tsering Dolker Gurung Photograph by Prem Tshering Sherpa

Astha Tamang Maskey has a breezy nature and all the makings of a music sensation. She can sing equally well in both English and Nepali. She stormed into Nepali music charts with the song Gotta be love from her first album Sabai thikai hunchha that was released in January, 2008. Her second album 11:11, which was released this summer, is a testimony to her fans that she is taking her music career seriously and not just as a passing fad.

“I had trouble adjusting in the beginning. But once I discovered music, it kind of just changed.”

A

stha made her presence felt with Sabai thikai hunchha; with 11:11 she promises to be the singer to watch out for.

Navyaata caught up with this lovely 21 year old singing diva, currently in the country to promote her second release.

A

Moving to Canada

A

stha had to move to Canada with her family when she was only twelve. There she found herself struggling to adjust to a complete new culture and a different environment. Naturally, everyday she longed to return back to Nepal. A total transformation of surrounding and circumstances bred a sense of loneliness in her, and during those moments of anguish and solitude the only thing that offered any comfort to Astha was music. Whether to vent out the pent up frustrations or to spill the gathering anger, Astha delved into music deeply. It was almost as if she sought refuge in the art; she stayed aloof from her new home and friends and spent major part of her time writing songs and composing melodies.

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“

I had trouble adjusting in the beginning. But once I discovered music, it kind of just changed,” says Astha. With music as her solace, things eventually got better, she was able to make friends and accept her new abode. Music provided her with an escape from all kinds of psychological and emotional troubles.

S

he used to sing when she was in Nepal, but shifting to Canada made Astha take up music seriously. She pushed herself to learn new instruments which she probably wouldn’t have had she not moved. “Honestly, I don’t know if I would be doing music had I not moved,” she admits. Having set her heart and mind on making it big in music, she enrolled into the Independent Music Production Program as the first step towards her goal.

send us your feedback at editor@nav yaata.com

navyaata/music Astha has a strong desire to spend a year or two getting to the depths of songs that we could call essentially ethnic and folk, and come out with an album based on her research.

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“Honestly, I don’t know if I would be doing music had I not moved. I used to sing here too but there I found an escape through music.”

S

he finally visited Nepal after graduating from her school in Canada. She had planned to stay for a few months, record a bunch of English tracks and go back. The success of her first album, however, led to change in plans and she ended up staying a whole year. “The album was not on cards.

I had just graduated and was looking for things to do,” she says. “It happened because everything fell into the right place. I met people I had wanted to work with all my life and thought why not give it a try.”

I

n Canada, I performed acoustic and worked with different people, but nothing clicked.

But here, I met so many talented people geared up for a meaningful work. The energy was simply uplifting,” reveals Astha. It was an impromptu decision which nevertheless worked wonderfully.

The press was interested and so were the audience even before the album was out. ‘People just knew about me,” says Astha, bursting with elation. “They started showing up at my performances and it made me feel great. I felt glad that I made right decision by choosing to release my first album here and I am proud that it is in Nepali.”

H

er second album 11:11, with songs in English, was released in Canada earlier this year. Different from her first album in terms of language and genre, the new album, in Astha’s words, is darker and edgier. She believes the songs in the album reflect the way she has matured as an artist.

ith songs like “Hide and Seek” on inconsistent relationships, and “Believe it” about the struggle of budding artists, “11:11” is an album that has a collection of soulful songs. Astha and her producer, Rohit Shakya, call her songs neo-pop as they infuse light musical instruments with electronic sounds that, according to them, gives a fresher edge to pop music. Currently, Astha is busy shooting the videos for her latest release. She hopes 11:11 gets as much attention and love from her fans as her first album.

A

stha is looking forward to collaborate with Kutumba someday. She attended one of their shows and was simply fascinated by their music. “Besides Kutumba, I’d like to work with my mother,” she says with a smile. “My mother and I have always talked about coming up with an album with Nepali folk songs.”

A

stha has a strong desire to spend a year or two getting to the depths of songs that we could call essentially ethnic and folk, and come out with an album based on her research. Hardworking and determined, her ultimate goal is to win a Grammy someday. As her fans, we’d love to see her achieve that goal and make us all proud, wouldn’t we?

7 things you didn’t know about Astha Tamang Maskey Went to Glen Bud School as a child.

Her parents wanted her to be a doctor.

Plays basketball and loves swimming Has an eight year old brother Loves pets and has a pet chinchilla.

Is doing a degree called Audio Production Technology fascinates her. When I-Pad was released she was amazed at how much trees this device was going to save.

To find more about Astha and listen to her songs, log on to www.myspace.com/asthatm or www.asthamusic.com.

Dining with Astha navyaata\food

She has a petite frame but her love for food is insatiable. When you see her talk about her favourite dishes with twinkling eyes, you know she is a real foodie. Astha had a lot of dishes on her mind for the Navya Food section, but since we gave her only one option, she went with “Mongolian Stir Fried Beef” which she had gorged a few days ago at New Orleans Cafe. “It was really good and the sauce took the dish to a whole new level,” she says. With Chef Indra Thapa, Navyaata brings out the recipe for this dish that had Astha Tamang Maskey wanting for more.

PREPARATION TIME: 15 minutes

PREPARATION METHOD 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

INGREDIENTS FOR MONGOLIAN STIR FRIED BEEF 1. Shredded Beef 2. Vegetables 3. Noodles (Spaghetti) 4. Thai Oyster Sauce 5. Ginger Garlic Paste 6. Celery 7. Chopped Garlic

Cook the shredded beef in Thai Oyster Sauce.

Add ginger garlic paste and stir.

Boil the noodles.

Mix the vegetables with noodles.

Add hot sauce if you like it spicy.

Fry the noodles and shredded beef together in Thai Oyster Sauce with celery.

THE RECEIPT

Mongolian Stir fried Beef: Rs.425/-

PREPARED BY :

Chef Indra Thapa New Orleans Café, Thamel send us your feedback at editor@nav yaata.com

send us your feedback at editor@nav yaata.com

AS H W I N 2 0 6 7 • N AV YA ATA 77

navyaata

4 FRIDAYS

S

udin Pokhrel or DA69, whichever name we may call him by, changed the way of Nepali music by bringing quality rap in it. He started his musical journey with the song “Ma Yesto Chhu, Ma Usto Chhu”, which was a hit. Soon, songs like “Aankha Bhari Naach Chhau” followed and he was established as a successful rapper. Sudin has a BA in Journalism and an MA in English Literature. He hosts a sports show called Score Board for Kantipur Television. Great attitude and splendid voice, Sudin no doubt is an influence we can trust upon for right changes and experiments in Nepali pop Music.

by Surakhsha Basnet Photograph Shishir Maharjan

Great attitude and splendid voice, Sudin no doubt is an influence we can trust upon for changes and experiments in Nepali pop music. college days.

Navyaata: What is your idea of a Friday Night?

Sudin: My idea of a Friday Night would be a

Navyaata: What is your favourite drink?

Sudin: I don’t drink that often. And when

decent place where you can hang around with close friends and family and drink to loosen up. But, in my case, it’s more like my idea of a Saturday Night because I work on Fridays; Saturday is the day off for me. So, Friday Night, you could say, is a movie night for me.

Navyaata: What is your favourite hangout?

Sudin: My favourite hangouts have to be

Navyaata: The wildest Friday that you have had?

Sudin: Fridays used to be wild and loads of fun

Sudin Pokhrel

A

sif started his career in media as a VJ for Nepal 1 Television.

Only two weeks into VJ-ing and the responsibility to produce the very show he was hosting fell upon his shoulders. Slowly he realized that he could do a lot more working behind the scene. Along with producing the TV shows, Asif started directing short films. Sonam, one of his the short films, bagged the title of First Runner-up at the Short Film Competition organised

by US AID. Asif is one amongst the very few films makers in Nepal who really understand the art of filmmaking.

With creativity, vision and the level of imagination like his, we can really hope for better innovations and breakthroughs in Nepali film and television industry.

really simple and sober. I enjoy hanging out at Durbar Marg and Lazimpat. Outside the valley, I like to hang out at the Busy Bee Bar in Pokhara.

Navyaata: The wildest Friday that you have had?

Asif: I can’t say if they were really wild, but then

Navyaata: What is your Favourite hangout?

Asif: My favourite hangout is Java; I love their

yes I have had a couple of Fridays with friends where I had wild fun. But that was way back when I was in college. Now, with so many responsibilities on my shoulders, I have to be really careful.

coffee. As a filmmaker, I enjoy sitting in the Coffee Express and snooping into people’s gestures and behaviours. It helps me for my projects.

Asif started with direction and production and soon landed up bagging the title of First Runner-up with his movie “Sonam” in the Short film competition organised by US AID.

Navyaata: What is your idea of a Friday Night?

Asif: Friday Night is a time I go out with my very close friends for a movie. We buy tickets for Friday’s last show. Sometimes I also enjoy Friday with friends and family in a decent place with good music.

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when I was in college. But now that I have a family, I have responsibilities. I can’t go out so often. But Yes, I have had a couple of wild Fridays with very close friends during the

I do, I take my own time. A bottle of beer is more then enough for me. My favourite drinks are beer and coke.

Asif Shah

Navyaata: What is your favourite drink?

Asif: Well, I don’t drink alcoholic drinks.

That does not leave me with many options, does it? So my favourite drink is Peach Ice Tea during summers and in winters I simply relish milk tea (Nepali style, rang kaada) send us your feedback at editor@nav yaata.com

Y

My idea of Friday night would be friends getting together at some place with nice ambience.

oung and energetic, Dibya Subba is a singer intimate with struggles and setbacks.

But he no longer has to wrangle with music companies because audience appreciate his work. His very first album ‘PRATHA’ was well received and with ‘PARIWARTAN’ his popularity soared. From a teenager learning the human journey to the man walking the spiritual journey, Dibya no doubt is a singer with some depth of understanding.

Navyaata: What is your idea of a Friday Night?

Dibya: I enjoy Fridays with friends. My idea of a Friday night would be friends getting

together at a place with nice ambience, friendly atmosphere, good music and good drinks.

Navyaata: The wildest Friday that you have had?

Dibya: Well, I am a kind of person who always stays away from trouble. I don’t like fights and

quarrels, so never had a bar fight or anything like that. But yes once I was partying with my friends and we were all wasted.

Navyaata: What is your favourite drink?

Dibya: My favourite drink has to be coffee. But yes in the past when I used to drink I would

always be up for a Beer.

Navyaata: What is Your Favourite hangout?

Dibya: There are a lot of lovely places to go out for these days. But my favourite is Moksh,

Dibya Subba

the ambience there is beautiful. Also, I love Thamel. Whenever I am free I just loiter in the Thamel streets.

When it’s summer I enjoy cold chilled beer and in winters I love whisky.

H

e is one of the multitalented artists in the Nepali music industry. He has given many hit songs and directed a dozen music videos. He has a huge fan fallowing around the world. He is not only a singer and director but also a very good football player. Naren first started as a band with Sudip. Though now both have decided to go solo, he says, “Aastha is always within us. People still know me and Sudip as Aastha.”

Navyaata: What is your idea of a Friday Night?

Naren: For me a Friday night is always a party night. I keep all the problems of

Navyaata: What is your favourite hangout?

Naren: Lakhey, Attic, Malingo, Mads, Cube, Tipsy and

Thamel are the places I hang out. Sometimes we, me and my group, just hop around and explore new and good places to hang out.

Naren Limbu

work and day to day life aside and party all night. You should see me dancing some day and you will know what I mean. Though, it does not have to be a Friday to have fun. Every night is a Friday night for me.

Navyaata: Any wildest Friday that you have had?

Naren: Once at a club in Durbar Marg I got into a fight with some local guys

because of the girl I was dancing with. And the other wild Friday happened in Galaxy, when I peed in the couch. But it was all Sudip’s fault. He was the one to encourage me to do so. I was Lucky the bouncer didn’t notice me doing that. You can imagine what could have happened if he had.

Navyaata: What is your favourite drink?

Naren: I am always ready for beer; I don’t have any such thing like favourite

drink. It just depends on my mood. When it’s summer I enjoy cold chilled beer and in winters I love whisky.

navyaata

4

FRI DAYS

THE TAMAKOSHI TALE

By Rhea Gurung

It is but of course an assumed and trivial knowledge that you cannot follow a river—in this case Tamakoshi—for very long. You tire and you take back all the big talks you gave when you were told you’d have to take the Tamakoshi route all along. Hey, I am not a big-time trekker, so what?

Dolakha is a place diverse in its beauty and the ethnicity of inhabitants. We were going to the place to survey how people there perceived the changing climate, but thanks to landslides, we had to walk all the way from Charikot, the headquarters, to Singati, one of the villages our research was based on. It was a one-day hike on a route that hadn’t been used ever since buses arrived here, more than 5 years ago.

Enjoying the scenery after a tough hike Hiking up the narrow trail along the Tamakoshi

DAY 1: Going There We took an early bus to Charikot, stopped at Mudey for lunch and began walking downhill along the stone-paved road that ran through a bazaar. It had been about an hour when we stopped at a solitary housecum-shop for tea and the usual chat about weather, politics and the recent landslides with the locals. After the paved roads came to an end, we trailed a slim line down the unnamed hills, made wet and greener by the drizzle. The place Rato Mato isn’t merely a metaphor; the place really is dripping reddish-brown and is slippery like rato mato is said to be. It had been more than two hours down the steepness and our legs tottered with the momentum that climbing down generates. Finally we arrived at the Rato Mato bridge from across which the real hike—the journey uphill—began.

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As we were told that there was no habitation anywhere for nearly two hours, we stopped for WaiWai at the only shop there. The weather then took a cool turn as the dense forest shielded the sunlight from our paths. Our companions were local people and hordes of domestic animals.

The chautari, as it is commonly known, had shade, grass, stone slabs and a vivid view of what lied ahead. An old guy, who was on the way to his in-laws, accompanied us until he decided that we, the city folks, were way too slow for him. Soon he was beyond our sight. 45 minutes hike later we arrived to a place called Gumbu Khola where we could actually buy Frooti. The shopkeepers seemed pretty pleased with the landslide and roadblocks because it had been long since so many customers arrived at their doorsteps. Finally, late in the evening, we arrived at Singati—our destination. That night, we slept like babies. send us your feedback at editor@nav yaata.com

DAY 2, 3 & 4: Survey at Singati Singati is the largest of the three locations we went to. Our lodge was right beside a river, close enough to hear its sound all night. We could see Mt. Gaurishankar in its full glory in the morning. The villagers seemed to have all the time in the world to talk to us. Climate change, as it turned out, isn’t a foreign topic there after all. The survey proved to be a great excuse for us to update ourselves yet again on the weather and politics.

DAY 5: Off to Bhorle In Bhorle Bazaar we completed our survey midst heavy rainfall. From the bridge, we watched the Tama Koshi grow bigger, heavier and fiercer. Lunch happened at a local woman’s place. From there, we headed to Suri Dobhan, some 25 minutes away, on foot of course.

The Rato Mato bridge

Tamakoshi

DAY 5: Suri Dobhan Suri Dobhan is arguably the smallest community I have ever seen. It is a sparsely inhabited place right after the bridge with blissfully ignorant children and curious old people. I had a talk with the postman of the place (yes it has one!) who updated me on the issues of the village—mostly health problems. Every time a stranger appears, the people here hope that they’d have brought some medicines for them.

DAY 6: The Walk to Simigaun Since we were already in Dolakha, it would have been pointless for Chhoki, who lived up in Simigaun that is just a day’s walk away, not to visit her home after so long. Even though it meant we had to walk a whole day again. And hence, the trip was extended.

The prospect of home, made Chhoki walk merrily all the way. I, for one, was starving for real food, WaiWai being our staple diet.

Green hills and loud waterfalls had become a common scenery for us by then—the road to Simigaun had them after every turn. It took us three hours to reach Tunitar where we could refill our water bottles and have lunch. Fuelled by yet another round of the noodles, we ventured towards our destination that seemed to be in Neverland.

One hour later, we arrived at Jagat where a quiet village greeted us with fresh homemade curd (a really tall glass at Rs. 10). At the end of Mathilo Jagat, we were warned that we still had miles to go and that we would never reach Simigaun before nightfall.

The next land mark was Himal Hydro tunnel in Gongarshang. The place had alarms (that didn’t function anymore) in case the Tsho-

Rolpa Lake burst and flooded the villages.

It was an hour later that we arrived at Chhoki’s aunt’s place. As it turned out, salted tea was the highlight of the day because Chyochhyot was wet and freezing, which, as you may know, is really not what you want at the end of a day’s walk. However, the walk hadn’t ended yet. Simigaun was on a hill top and we were at the level of the Tamakoshi.

We had to climb the locally-carved stairs winding the hill for an hour. It seemed like climbing the Swayambhu stairs five times in a row. The stairs were green, mossy, wet and the rocks were dripping like in caves. We had freshly plucked pears as we lied on the mud floor. Correction: Chhyang was THE highlight of the evening. Needless to say, we slept like babies again.

DAY 7: A Day in Neverland We woke up to a fog that blinded everyone—even the chickens had decided to persist in their sleep. Simigaun is full of deciduous forests and fields of potato and millet. The stupa next to the only school in Simigaun gave a view of the rest of the hills that surrounded the small valley.

Brown patches left by landslides and white waterfall streaked the green background.

We were served yak meat that night. TshoRolpa Lake was two days away, but we were on a project.

DAY 8: The Journey Back We left Simigaun for Charikot. It was a longer journey back, nonetheless, the rustic beauty of the village roads, the river, the crumbling paths, the fondly cooked WaiWais was worth a second time. We visited the famous Dolakha Bhimeshwor temple only

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Mudey bazaar

to find it closed. I fell ill on arriving at Charikot. That was okay because, in Charikot you can easily get BUSES! DAY 9: Back home. Missed the Tamakoshi, but was pleased to see the bustle of the hometown.

WHERE: Dolakha (Singati, Bhorle, Suri Dobhan, Jiri, Simigaun), Janakpur Zone, 133 km away from the capital.

TRANSPORT: Buses available

from Kathmandu to Charikot and from Charikot to Dolakha and then to Singati. If you intend to hike, follow the Tamakoshi from the last stop in Dolakha.

EXPENSES: Rs. 5000 per head for a week’s trip.

MUST CARRY: a Swiss knife, insect repellant, warm clothes (even during summer) and proof of identity.

AS H W I N 2 0 6 7 • N AV YA ATA 81

glow from head to toe

Ayurveda puts a lot of emphasis on balance to achieve optimum health, and autumn (sharad ritu that falls between mid September and mid November) is the most balanced among the seasons. There is still some heat in the atmosphere, so pitta can be high, but other than that it is pretty balanced season. Autumn comes after the scorching heat of summer and the deluge of monsoon but a few months ahead of the winter. Weather is just perfect and the environment is full of excitement because it is the season of festivals. While people try to look their best—shopping for the most fashionable outfits and jewelries, they often do not take care of their skin. Having a glowing skin enhances the gorgeous look that you try to achieve during festivals. Here are some beauty rituals from ancient wisdom of Ayurveda that you can follow once or twice a week to get a glowing skin and healthy look from head to toe this festival season.

For healthy nails:

For healthy hair:

Massage and clean the nails with a soft brush then soak them in a mixture of warm water: 2 cups of warm water mixed with 4 tablespoon of rosewater, 2 drops of almond oil and lemon juice.

Keep the nails soaked for about 5-10 minutes then wipe clean with a towel.

It is important to give yourself a head and hair oil-massage once a week. Oil massage helps in hair growth, prevents hair from premature graying and falling, and is very relaxing to your mind and senses. Bhringraj and Brahmi oils are very good for the strengthening and growth of hair.

For smooth and soft hands:

Hair rinses: Black tea and amla powder decoction makes a very good homemade hair-rinse. Make the decoction by using 4 parts water, 1 tbsp of Tea and 1 tbsp of Bhringraj and Brahmi mixture and boil for 10-15 minutes. Let it cool down and use the mixture as your hair rinse. This decoction can be stored in the refrigerator for 7 days.

Mix 2 drops of almond and 2 drops of castor oil and massage your hand once a day. Invigorating Foot Soak for the tired feet and cracked heels: Soak your feet in warm water mixed with 2-3 drops of peppermint oil, and 1 tbsp of salt for about 10 minutes a day, preferably in the evening.

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Hair mask: Mix 2 tbsp of yogurt with 2 beaten eggs and use the mixture as hair mask.

Leave on for about 30 minutes and rinse out.

Luscious lips: Mix ½ tsp of sugar ½ tsp honey.

This is a very good scrub for keeping the lips smooth and crack free.

Body scrub: 1 tbsp chick pea flour (Besan), 1 pinch of turmeric and 2 tsp of milk. Mix the ingredients and rub on your body during shower and rinse as usual. It is very good for exfoliating the skin, making the skin soft.

Deep facial cleanser: Mixture of Red sandalwood powder, Masoor daal, Manjistha (Majetho) ½ tsp each with a pinch of turmeric and two drops of lemon juice makes a good facial scrub. Paste can be made with 3-4 drops of milk. Massage your face gently with the paste for 5 minutes and rinse with warm water.

For extra glow: Mix 3-4 strands of saffron with ½ glass of milk and keep it in refrigerator for about 1 hour (the milk would have turned golden yellow by now) and stir the milk with a spoon. Use this mixture to wipe your face using a cotton ball every evening after cleansing the face and follow with a good moisturizer. This can be stored for 2-3 days in the refrigerator. This makes a very good toner for your skin

To get a good night sleep is very important. Massaging the feet with some warm oil assures a good sleep. You might have to wear socks not to let the oil stain your bed-sheet.

Diet: Include milk, seasonal fruits, dates and almonds in your diet. Start your day by drinking warm water with lemon in empty stomach. This is a very good internal cleanser and helps to detoxify the system.

Autumn is the season of worshiping goddesses in the form of Durga and Lakshmi since both Navratri and Deepawali fall during this season. These goddesses symbolize energy, passion, wealth, abundance, creativity, courage and beauty. It is important for women to understand the multidimensional beauty that these goddesses embody, and to remember to pay respect to our inner goddess who is full of these attributes. Only when we recognize these attributes in ourselves will our true beauty shine through.

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BEAUTY

I am a student and have to travel a lot because of my assignments and vocational. I have very oily skin that gets worse during summers.

Please tell me any home made remedy to make my skin less oily?

cheek. I always use my hair to hide the patch, but now I am looking for a permanent solution to the problem. Is there any kind of concealer that would help me overcome this problem?

26, Pranita Karki, Baneshwor

22, Suvangi Rana, Babar Mahal

Priyanka: Cleanse your face every morning and night. Since you have an oily face, wash your face frequently and don’t forget to apply sunscreen. Make a paste of aloe Vera and papaya and apply as a pack. Eat healthy and drink at least eight glasses of water everyday.

I have been having this acne problem since my secondary school. I have tried almost every cosmetic available in the market to stop it from resurfacing. But nothing works!

19, Ishika Rani Rai, Basundhara

Priyanka: I suggest you use products of a good company for oily face. Also stick to a strict food regimen: avoid oily and spicy foods and take lots of fruits, green vegetables and water. If the problem persists, it will be better for you to visit a dermatologist for a thorough check-up.

I have a burn patch near the chin on my left

Priyanka: You can try Isadora’s perfect conclealer sticks available at Isadora’s store at Durbarmarg or Bluebird. For a permanent solution, I suggest you visit a dermatologist.

I have freckles all over my cheek and forehead.

I consulted a doctor and he advised me to stay away from the sun. But its summers and staying away from the sun is really not possible. Is there any way to get rid of my freckles without having to worry about the sun?

32, Roshima Ganguly, Budanilkantha

Priyanka: As the doctor said, staying away from the sun is the best thing you can do. Don’t forget to apply sun block of at least SPF30 before going out and reapply after every 2 to 3 hours. You can use face packes for freckles once in awhile.

HAIR

Santosh Kumar Sharma, a hair specialist, is the owner of Headmaster. He started his career in Chandigarh, India, at Matrix Company (a hair company) which is one of its kind in America. His ability to play with hair and create unique, personal styles has earned him an enviable reputation.

You can contact Santosh at 9803203106.

Hello! I am a 17 year old +2 student.

I would like to have a hair style that is short and easy to manage. But my hair is too frizzy and I am scared if I keep short hair, it might actually look like a ball of cotton on my head. Can you please help me with my hair problem?

I am a regular at the swimming pool during summer. I have realized that the chemical mixed in the pool water has made my hair look dull and dry. I would be really glad if you could suggest me how to save my hair from the negative impact of the pool water?

16, Rubi Pradhan, Koteshwor

This is a very common problem with all the swimmers. The simplest way to protect your hair from getting damaged by the chemical in pool water is to wear a swimming cap. But if you don’t want to use the cap, oil your hair before you get into the pool. Besides that, a regular hair treatment with Vitamin ‘A’ is necessary.

17, Nisha Shakya, Jawalakhel

Bring this to get 10% discount on the products.

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Hello Nisha, I do have a solution that will work out well for your hair.

All you have to do is mix coconut oil with camphor (kapoor) and make a paste. Then, everyday before you go to bed, gently massage your hair with the paste. Leave it for the whole night and wash it with ginger shampoo the next day. Take this initiative for about 15-20 days continuously and I am sure you will love the outcome.

I am a 21 year old guy doing undergraduates in Business Studies. The problem is my hairline is receding rapidly and it is giving me a massive headache. My friends and relatives keep teasing me for going ‘bald’. Is there a way to prevent if not cure this problem?

I have an average length wavy hair and I want to grow it longer.

However, I have heard that the longer the hair gets the unhealthier it becomes. I certainly don’t want those split ends and massive hair fall. What should I do to?

Hi! I work in a bank. I commute back and forth between my home and office on my scooter. I think the helmet, which I have to wear, is causing my hair fall. Now I’m really worried about the quantity of my hair. I hope you can tell me how to fight this problem.

21, Bijay Singh, Kupondole

Hey Bijay! It is quite possible that you have Alopecia. It is a kind of hair bug. To get rid of the problem, contact a Trichologist or a hair specialist as soon as possible.

20, Sunima Maskey, Sanepa

25, Richha Acharya, Kalanki

Sunima, it all depends on the quality of your hair. It is possible to grow your hair longer without any side effects. I suggest you meet a hair specialist personally. You may drop by at Headmaster to discuss your problem anytime.

Richha, I suggest that you cover your hair with a scarf or a cap before you put on the helmet. Besides that, a regular hair treatment and oil massage are important.

Ginger shampoo is very effective for hair, and you should take steam heat at least once a week.

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SAREE

Vivek Upadhyaya is the Creative Director of Beatification Boutique.

Vivek can be contacted at vnice13@hotmail.com.

I am a 23 year old student. I am not that thin, having dark skin with short length hair. As my graduation ceremony is approaching, I am planning to wear a saree. But I am not sure about the color of the saree that I would be wearing.

Poonam Shah, Maharajgunj

Dear Poonam Graduation is a time when you look elegant and not too made up .You haven’t mentioned anything about the time of the graduation. Will it be held during daytime or in the evening? If it is during the day, then wear a nice chiffon saree with a string of pearls and a simple ear ring. If the function is in the evening, then opt for a darker shade with some light work and finish it off with a pair of dangling ear rings. Avoid wearing too bright colors.

I have this blue crepe saree with light embroidery on the border which was gifted to me by my husband on my birthday. The saree is simple but very beautiful. However, I have not tried it even once as I am undecided on when and what kind of event/ occasion should I wear this saree for.

Raksha Ghimirey, Tripureshwor

Hi Raksha Crepe silk is something that you wear during the winter as it can get really hot during the summer and monsoon season. You could wear it to any function during the evenings if it has embroidery. But if it is the crape silk with prints on it, you could wear it both during the day or at night.

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Hi! I am a 27 year old mother of two and a teacher in a school. I have to wear a saree as the dress code of my school but lately I have gained a lot of weight, because of which I don’t like the way I look in the mirror. What color and style should I go for to look slimmer?

Sandhya Joshi, Jyatha

Dear Sandhya, Draping a saree in a particular way, its color, and not to forget the material of the saree can play a major role in creating a personality of your own. Cotton sarees are major nono for people who are overweight. I recommend you rather wear a material that has a good fall and which does not cling to your body. Avoid wearing satin petticoats as they tend to cling to your body. Wear georgette sarees of darker shades with not too many big prints and big borders. Wearing sarees with vertical prints could help a great deal.

I inherited this saree from my mother who used to wear it in her hey-days. The saree is plain black in color with a heavy metallic border and I want to wear it for the farewell program in my college. But I think the saree looks old-fashioned.

19, Rupa Shrestha, Hattiban

Hi Rupa, You will definitely look beautiful in your mother’s black saree with the silver border. It would have helped a great deal if I knew what kind of a border it was, however if the border is just plain and simple I recommend you make a blouse with a lot of silver embroidery and make sure the back is deeply cut .If the border is made of brocade, then opt for a brocade blouse of the same color.

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Chiffon sarees are my passion but because of my ever increasing weight I have to avoid them. My friends keep telling me it doesn’t go well with my body-type. What color and style of chiffon sarees should I get?

31, Neeru Gurung, Tinkune

Dear Neeru It all depends on how you drape it. If you are fat drape it loose and if you are thin drape it tight. Feel the saree as you drape it. Chiffon is a very light material so when you drape it do it very gently. Many ladies make a mistake of draping a saree too tight to their body in order to look thin and that could be a serious blunder. Chiffon sarees with a heavy Banarasi border could be a great option, since the border pulls the saree down giving it a good fall.

Remember; avoid big prints and big broad borders.

I am getting married after two months. For the wedding ceremony I want to wear a unique yet beautiful saree that’s different from the typical red Banarsi saree. Need your help!

25, Tanya Khanal, Suryabinayak

Dearest Tanya Banarasi sarees have the best look, elegance and sophistication. I can understand your idea of looking different, so try a lehenga that looks very elegant. But if it has to be a saree then try real georgette with heavy zari work, gottapatti, kutdana or even zari chikankari which is just new in the market. Buy a two piece saree. They all look beautiful and don’t forget to have a matching veil to your wedding saree.

navyaata\MUSIC REVIEW

Navyaata’s 6 Albums Music to me is a medium that helps me express what can’t be put into words. We all listen to a particular genre of music. But many of us let our moods dictate the type of songs we listen to.

I mostly opt for songs that have thoughtful lyrics and a music that makes me cheerful when I feel low and helps me calm down when I feel agitated. Here are some tracks in my play list that lets me be myself by giving me a total control over my mood.

By Suraksha Basnet

Good Bye by Air Supply Air Supply is an Australian soft rock duo, consisting of Graham Russel as guitarist and singer-songwriter and Russelle Hitchcook as lead vocalist. They had a succession of hits worldwide, including eight Top Ten hits in the United States, in the early 1980s. They formed in Melbourne, Australia in 1975 and since then they have been doing wonders. I simply love their song Good Bye. It is a feel good song and I listen to it almost two times a day.

Break Free by Queen “I Want to Break Free” is a song performed by Queen, which was written by the bassist John Deccon.

It featured on their 1984 album The Works. In the UK Chart, it peaked at number 3, and remained in the chart for fifteen consecutive weeks from its release in late April 1984. Weather I am high or low I love listening to this song every night before I go to sleep. The song gives give a strange feeling that transcends all barriers. I really want to break free every time I listen to it.

Mocking Bird by Eminem Marshall Bruce Mathers III (born October 17, 1972)] better known by his stage name Eminem (often styled “EMINEM”), is an American rapper, record producer, and actor. Eminem quickly gained popularity in 1999 with his major-label debut album, The Slim shady, which won a Grammy award for best rap artist. All of his songs are awesome but I love the Mocking bird. When ever I need to set an alarm, I set this song for the alarm and love waking up to it.

Rock Star by Nickelback Nickelback is a Canadian rock band from Hanna, Alberta formed in 1995

by Chad Koreng, Mike Kroeger, Ryan Peake and then-drummer Brandon Kroeger. While largely a rock band, the group has also experimented with various other musical styles such as pop and country, aside from their hard rock and post-grunge base. Nickelback is one of the most commercially successful Canadian groups, having sold 30 million records worldwide. And their song Rock Star tops my play list. I have it in the 25 most played songs. The lyrics of the song are great and the music just perfect.

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I Am A Highway by Audioslave Audioslave was an American hard rock super group who formed in Los Angeles, California in 2001. Critics initially described Audioslave as an amalgamation of Rage against the Machine and Soundgarden, but by the band’s second album, Out of Exile, it was noted that they had established a separate identity. All their songs are highly popular and amongst all my favorite is “High Way” I love the lyrics and the voice is just mind blowing. I can never have enough of this song.

Come As You Are By Nirvana Nirvana was an American grunge band that was formed by singer/ guitarist Kurt Cobain and bassist Krist Novolesic in Aberdeen, Washington in 1987. Nirvana went through a succession of drummers, the longest-lasting being Dave Grohl, who joined the band in 1990.

The band established itself as part of the Seatle music scene, releasing its first album Bleach for the in 1989.

This is a song I can listen to 24/7. I love the lyrics and the music could not have gotten any better. This is a song that holds a lot of meaning in my life. send us your feedback at editor@nav yaata.com

The 4 rom-com movies we talk about here offer you trite, sappy, emotional, clichéd, melodramatic, weepy trivia, but leave you with a beautiful feeling in the end, nonetheless.

A film that has the following formula: Two people fall in love They get along fine There is some kind of misunderstanding They break up They get back together The end

Most Goofy, Yet Adorable Dialogue:

(After having sex for the first time) Diane: Are you shaking?

Lloyd: No Diane: You’re cold.

Lloyd: I don’t think I am.

Diane: Then why are you shaking?

Lloyd: I don’t know. I think I’m just happy.

navyaata\Movie review

Rom-Com Movies

A Walk to Remember Director: Adam Shankman

Cast: Mandy Moore, Shane West, Al Thompson, Peter Coyote, Clayne Crawford

A Cinderella Story

Director: Mark Rosman Cast: Hilary Duff, Chad Michael Murray Hilary Duff plays, Samantha, the social outcast, who falls in love with an anonymous guy through IM and cell-phone text messaging. As luck would have it, the guy turns out to be hot popular stud, Austin, played by Chad Michael Murray. The rough and tumble caused by Samantha’s low social status and Austin’s domineering dad create a cringe-filled hour and 35 minutes worth of anticipation and uncertainty. But eventually the couple’s fairytale saga ends with a kiss in the rain and a happily ever after at Princeton, where both are accepted. A Cinderella Story is definitely a morale boosting, feel-good movie.

When Harry Met Sally Director: Rob Reiner Cast: Billy Crystal, Meg Ryan

Taking place over the span of 12 years, this Rob Reiner film details a series of hilarious encounters between Harry (Billy Crystal) and Sally (Meg Ryan) that almost invariably leaves them in surprise, shock or intrigue. The movie explores the issue whether a man and woman can ever truly be “just friends.”

For those who enjoy romantic comedies for both aspects of the genre (the “romance” and the “comedy”), the movie is a treat. The film gave boost to the careers of Crystal and Reiner (both of whom were already well-established) and transformed Ryan into a bankable leading lady. Nearly twenty years after hitting the American screens, When Harry met Sally still holds up remarkably well.

That really shouldn’t be a surprise, however, since a good romance is simply timeless.

Say Anything

Director: Cameron Crowe Cast: John Cusack, Ione Skye, John Mahoney, Lili Taylor, Amy Brooks Jon Cusack plays a kick-boxer who wants to date the genius lass valedictorian, Diane Court, immediately following their high school graduation. Various obstacles impede their relationship: social pressures, Diane shifting base to England, her overprotective father, and Lloyd’s (Cusack) own awkwardness. Despite all the hassles, the lead cast have to grapple with, the movie contains some of the cutest moments of all romantic comedies. Foremost among them is the iconic scene in which Cusack stands outside Diane’s bedroom window, holding a radio over his head playing Peter Gabriel’s “In your eyes” while she tries to sleep. Stalking never has looked so appealing.

Rom-Com Movies

It is a movie that people can not help but love and remember. Its storyline is simple, at times a bit clichéd and predictable, yet never fails to touch the hearts of the romantics. The lead stars are ordinary townsfolk, very well cast in their inspired low key performance that young audiences easily relate to.

While most popular pop singers find difficulty while invading the big screen, here Moore displays not only great music but also great acting. The cinematography is beautiful, showcasing the rustic scenery of a small town in Carolina that works well as a wonderful backdrop for the blossoming youthful love.

Sentimental, though not mushy, this is definitely a feel-good-must-see movie, not only for the young but for all viewers.

navyaata\bookreveiw

Three books of my preference:

uhan a h C b a g n a J in ion Translat

by Dolkar Lhamo

MAILE DEKHEKO NEPAL (VIGNETTES OF NEPAL) Author: DR. HARKA GURUNG

Though written during a very difficult time in his life, i.e., when a court case of political nature was filed against him, the book recounts sweet memories of the author’s journey into difficult parts of Nepal. The author finds the hilly and Himalayan regions, the snowy mountains, the heart touching streams and rivers, beautiful lakes and delightful valleys playing host to culturally and ethnically diverse population quite inspiring. The vivid description of different locations and elements that make up the local environment are used to show the changes taking place in rural areas. The underlying perspective in the entire text is the author’s patriotic outlook.

The author plays the patriotic chord artfully presenting Nepal as a beautiful travel destination at the same time.

MEMOIRS

A

noted name in Nepali literature, Professor Jangab Chauhan is especially known for translating popular Russian literature into Nepali.

Eurasia ka Kavita, Mtsiri, Russiako Gahiraima ra Anya Kathaharu and Pushkin ra Tuytchev ka Kavita are his published work till date. He has also penned a book called Nilo Nilo Akash ra Dui Thopa Ansu, which is a collection of poems.

Jangab started teaching at Kathmandu University from the year 1983. Today he holds two important positions at the university as the Director of Student Council and as the HOD of Department of Language and Mass Communication.

As a teacher, he finds his students’ enthusiasm for literature quite exciting; but he feels that young people should be equally eager to pursue other subjects like philosophy, sociology and conflict studies.

Jangab finished his Masters and PhD from Russia, his area of expertise being 19th and 20th century Russian Literature.

Presently, he is busy studying the Russian Literature after the Collapse of Soviet Union and translating Leo Tolstoy’s masterpiece Anna Karenina from Russian to Nepali.

Navyaata asked Jangab to share his views about three of his all time favorite books. Here is what he has to say

Author: PABLO NERUDA The book, which was completed just three days before his Final Exit, is considered one of the best autobiographical memoirs. of a noble laureate poet, diplomat and a politician, Neruda.

The book not only brings to the fore Neruda’s multifaceted personality as a noble laureate poet, diplomat and politician but also demonstrates his magnificent skills of artistic expression: the prosaic language romances with the poetic touch.

The deeply moving memoir is full of encounters with many important literary, artistic and political figures like Garcia Lorka, Pablo Picasso, Mahatma Gandhi, Jawahar Lal Nehru, Mao Tse Tung, Fidel Castro, Che Guevara, and Joseph Stalin. Memoir is a uniquely written book that reveals Neruda as a poet, patriot and a man of awakened conscience and presents him as an author with an impressive artistic caliber.

MY UNIVERSITIES Author: MAXIM GORKY

‘My Universities’ is a part of the autobiographical series written by Gorky in a span of a decade from 1913 to 1923, and published in the form of a trilogy: Destovo (My Childhood, 1913-14), Vlyudyakh (In the World, 1915-16), and Moi Universitety (My Universities, 1923). Evaluated as the central volume of Gorky’s autobiographical works, My Universities covers the author’s teen-age days, i.e., from 188488. Very delightfully and sarcastically he reveals that he never attended any university. According to him all the places he traveled and the series of tiring jobs he took along the way were the universities of his self education. Interesting to note is his fame as one of the best authors of the world without a formal education.

The above books are available at Educational Book House (Tel: 4244863) and Mandala Book Point (Tel: 4227711) 92 N AV YA ATA • AS H W I N 2 0 6 7

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navyaata\EVENTS

Sadichha Shrestha crowned Miss Nepal 2010

Sadichha Shrestha, 19, bagged this year’s Miss Nepal title. She beat 17 other contestants to become Dabur Special Hidden Treasure Miss Nepal 2010. Zenisha Moktan, the winner of last year’s title, acceded by placing the crown on Shrestha’s head. The ceremony was organized at the Army Officer’s Club in Kathamndu on September 1. Sahana Bajracharyat, 20, and Sanyukta Timisina, 19, won the titles of 1st runner-up and 2nd runner-up respectively. The winner walked away with a QQ3 cherry car and a cash prize of Rs. 50000. The runners up bagged a cash prize of Rs 35000 and 25000 respectively. With the glittering crowns, designed by Ganapati Jewellers, on their heads the winning ladies were all smiles in response to the cheers and adulation they got from the audience. Navyaata wishes a bright future to all three of them!

Sphinx Celebrates first Anniversary Well recognized among the fashionistas in Kathamndu, Sphinx is a popular clothing store on the third floor of City Center mall in Kamal Pokhari. The branded store celebrated its first anniversary on 21st and 22nd August 2010 with special discounts of up to 50%. Previously known for selling branded as well as designer bags and shoes, Sphinx has now diversified as a coolest unisex clothing store by bringing in the whole range of trendy dresses, tees, jeans, bags and belts. The interior of the store is equally good and matches the trendiness and the concept of a whole new fashion line in Nepal. Besides the special discount offer, the store had made special arrangement of drinks and snacks for all its anniversary shoppers. For those who want the right outfit and don’t want to compromise on quality, as the young owners of Sphinx put it, “Sphinx is the place to be.”

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navyaata\EVENTS

Metro Kathmandu, Delicacy and Elegance combined Situated at the heart of Thamel, Metro is one of those places where you’d like to spend your evenings with your closed ones. A spacious setting with both smoking and non-smoking sections, it provides its customers with Indian cuisine, which is its specialty and is also opting for a Thai chef. Metro also has a well stocked bar with live music played during Wednesdays and Saturdays. Two weeks since its grand opening, it is already popular with the visitors from in and outside Thamel. A live performance by Sabin Rai kicked off the grand opening that was attended by a packed audience.

navyaata\BACKSTAGE

Backstage of Navyaata MAGAZINE’S September Fashion Feature

by Kishor Kayastha

Rs 99/only Breakfast At Metro Kathmandu

Regular Breakfast

Eggs, Potatoes, Tomatoes ................ Rs 99 *all breakfast is served with tea or coffee and toast

Metro Kathmandu, Thamel Contact: 4700215

PP

navyaata

DINING Attic Bar

Location: Tej Bhawan, Uttar Dhoka Speciality: Attic Platter- Rs.300/- Royal Aloo( Mashed Potato wrap with cheese filling) Rs.110/Veg Bubble Queak- Rs.95/- Durbariya Bandel Sandheko- Rs.250/Live music every Monday by Blues Rusty Nails, Friday- Houseband Open mic night on Wednesdays Don’t miss Sabin Rai’s performance on August 7:30 pm onwards Attic Bar is an ideal place for those who want to enjoy their drinks and snacks with friends or company in nicely renovated loft of the past.

Contact: 4442615

Coffee Beans

Location: Kupondole Speciality: Cappucino, Café Latte and Cold Mocha.

Cheese cake tastes superbly delicious and if you do not visit it early you are bound to miss it as it sells really fast.

Coffee Beans provide freshly grounded coffee. With a motive of promoting Nepali coffee, the coffee here is sourced mainly from plantations from Kavre and Kaski districts Reasonable price and a warm ambience Contact: 5011713

Hankook Sarang

Location: Durbarmarg, Sherpa Mall Cafereena is the ultimate joint for hot and delicious Belle Momos.

The big beer garden and live music every Friday has made it popular among people who want to enjoy cool and relaxed weekends.

Opening hour: 11am – 10pm Contact: 4231313, 4231258

Chopstix Restaurant and Tangerine Bar and Lounge

Location: Kumaripati Speciality: Indo- Chinese cuisines: Chicken sweet corn soup, Szechwan Chicken, Kung Pao Chicken, exotic drinks Unambiguous demarcated lounge and restaurant areas Opening hours: 1300 - 2200, 7 days a week Contact: 5551118

Open from 7 am till late Speciality: Nepali, Mexican, Continental Every Satuarday BBQ FOR MORE INFO

facebook: Electric Pagoda Group

Cube Bar

Location: Kamaladi This chic and trendy bar (adjoining the sports bar) is the perfect place to grab a drink and chill out in the comfy couches-be it weekdays or the weekends.

Bhumi Restro Lounge Whatever your Poison, be it cocktails or hard liquor, Location: Lazimpat you will undoubtedly find it here.

Speciality: Newari appetizers: Samay Baji, Dance party on every Friday.

Choyala , Sekuwa and Momo are the most Tel: 4438017 popular dishes here. Bhumi boasts of having over Website: www.cubetheclub.com 200 drinks on their menu. Long Island Ice Tea and Screw driver are not to be missed when you are Dhokaima Cafe dining at Bhumi.

Dhokaima Cafe offers light snacks at very reasonable Ample of parking space, mouth watering Newari prices. The restaurant has a nice garden and a bar dishes and outlandish drinks makes Bhumi a – Manny’s Rukhmuni Lounge and Bar—set under must visit this season a sprawling walnut tree. Mojito and ‘Liquid Viagra’ Tel: 4412193 are the specialties of the bar. A pleasant café next to Patan Dhoka, it’s a place to be for a light snacks after Café Kaldi exploring Patan’s backstreets. You can visit Dhokaima Location: Thamel for the excellent Sunday brunch (10:00 to 15:00). The Café Kaldi serves a wide range of excellent hot café is a part of the Yala Maya Kendra, a Rana-era and cold coffee with variety of choice. storehouse that is used for occasional cultural events.

Speciality: Cakes, Snacks Contact: 5553767 Free Wifi Soothing ambience, Free Wifi area

Cafereena

CHILLING ZONE

THE PLACE TO BE

Jatra Café

Location: Thamel Speciality: Sam-Gyeop-Sal (Pork- Slice pork for self roast) Rs.350/Thinly cut pork slices roast yourself on your table. It comes with rice and soup and side dishes. It’s often eaten by wrapping rice and piece of meat in lettuce.

Kimbab- Rs.200/Mixture of rice and vegetables rolled with seaweed One of the oldest Korean restaurant, running under Nepalese – Korean management for the past six years Contact: 4256615

Location: Thamel Speciality: Sukuti Ko Achar Rs.110, Jatra Special Pizza (Sukuti Pizza), Special Homemade Aila Live Performance by Dharmendra Sewan, Nepali Tara from 7 pm onwards Every Wednesday – Ladies Night: 1 cocktail/ mocktail free Serene Environment, comfortable sitting area, free wifi Contact: 4256622

Irish Pub

Location: Thamel Life is indeed sweet at Thamel’s best Italian bistro offering excellent food with the right atmosphere.

Speciality: Chocolate torte, Parmesan gnocchi, antipasti, goat’s cheese, spinach, walnut ravioli and wines by the glass.

Rooptop Garden, yummy smelling espresso bar

Location: Ananda Bhawan, Lazimpat Speciality: Irish Chicken Stew with Guinness, Guinness Burger, Fish & Chips, Irish coffee Live music on Fridays An Irish vibe, brilliantly done décor and friendly waiters keep coming you back for more to Irish Pub. Contact: 4416027 Email: info@irishpubnepal.com

La Dolce Vita

Lalit Mandap Hardik Club

The club boasts of world class facility for those who want to keep fit and stay healthy. Lalit Mandap Hardik Club is a well appointed fitness center with top of the line equipments and infrastructure for Gym, Aerobics, Swimming and Cardio Section that has elliptical Cross trainer and Treadmill. The club also has facilities for a sauna and steam bath. The club’s garden has a badminton court and visitors can also enjoy the free WiFi. Opening Hours: 6am - 8pm Contact: 5522068, 5548888

Le- Bistro

Location: Thamel It is a Nepalese Terrace restaurant located in the heart of Thamel, Kathmandu offering many delicious foods from different countries with beautiful terrace and a typical bar.

Speciality: Tandoori Platter, Chef’s salad, Minestrone Soup Lunch and Dinner served from 12:00 noon to 10:30 P.M Contact: 4701170 Email: info@le-bistro.com.np

Metro

Amidst the buzz of Thamel, Metro is an eatery which is quickly gaining popularity for its delicious Indian cuisine. The beautifully designed wooden ambience, a well stocked bar and Live Music on Wednesdays and Saturdays make it a perfect place for a family outing, get-togethers with friends or meeting someone special.

Location: Thamel Speciality: Indian cuisine: Tandoori(full)- Rs. 670/-, Chicken Tikka Masala (with naan/rice)- Rs. 345/-, Sabji Baharka- Rs. 300/Contact: 4700215

New Orleans Café

Location: Thamel The café has a good variety of well-made food including pasta and salads. Hidden down an alley near the Brezel Bakery, New Orleans boasts an intimate candlelit vibe. It is popular spot for a drink but the menu also ranges far and wide.

Speciality: Thai Curries, Creole Jambalaya.

Great selection of Music, often live, Free Wife acess.

Contact: 4700736

Northfield Café

Location: Thamel Northfield is more of a place for foreigners and Americans. The menu offers continental, Nepali, Indian and Mexican.

Speciality: The Mexican and Indian tandoori dinner dishes are excellent.

The sunny garden is a real plus in winter.

Contact: 4700884

Seoul Arirang

Location: Chamunda Marg, Naxal Speciality: Bulgogi (beef and ginger) Bibimbap (rice with beef, vegetables and hot sauce).

This excellent korean place has a pleasant rooftop area and serves dishes barbecued at your table as well as korean classics. There is a picture menu for your convenience.

Tel: 4429052 E-mail: sarangsan@parn.com

GLOSSARY

I phone-4

Samsung Galaxy i 9000

list DS Collection

Intimate Delight

Temptation

Durbarmarg,Sherpa Mall Tel:4228917

Bhatbhateni Tel:4429288

Addidas

I See it first

Durbarmarg,Kathmandu Tel:4226432

Durbarmarg,Sherpa Mall Tel:4215220 Kamalpokhari,City Centre Tel:4011629

Tripureshwor,UWTC Tel: 4117081

Mahendra Pool,Chipledhunga Tel:9756000928

Attitude Nokia-e5

Nokia-e72

Sundhara,Kathmandu Mall Tel:4150116

Abhinandan Kamalpokhari,City Centre Tel:4011567

Beatification Boutique Annapurna Arcade,Durbarmarg Tel:9721415802,014223482

Nokia-x6

Sony Ericson x10

Nokia-N8

HTC HD2

Nokia-C6

Karuna Clothes and Accessories Durbarmarg Tel:016913975

Klass Room Durbarmarg,Kathmandu Tel:4232394

Kunal Furnishing

Bentley

Kupondole Tel:5546386,5546387

Durbarmarg,Kathmandu Tel:4239686

Labels

Chocolate

Durbarmarg,Sherpa Mall Tel:4241802

Taxxi Naxal,Nagpokhari Tel:4426024

The Pink Woodland Complex,Durbarmarg Kathmandu Tel:9841190023

The Stupa Fancy Boudha Tel:2140729 Sohrakhutte,Nayabazzar Tel:2171510

Urban Fashion World

Marque

Khichapokhari,Pashupati Plaza Tel:4222246

Durbarmarg,Sherpa Mall Tel:4231483

Vision First

Cocktail

Mesuca

Kamalpokhari,City Centre Tel:4011507

Kamalpokhari,City Centre

Tel:4011707

Kamlpokhari,City Centre Tel:4011533

Ware House

Envy Tindhara Pathsala Complex Tel:4224241

Durbarmarg,Kathmandu Tel:4221451 Tel:4227511

Fabulous

Plum

Tripureswor,UWTC Tel:4117299 Kathmandu Mall Tel:4150105

Durbarmarg,Sherpa Mall Tel:4228917

Royal Singey,Durbarmarg Tel: 4425975 Mahendrapool,Pokhara Tel:061229506

HTC(wildfire)

of shopping malls and stores

Nike

PUMA Store

Flaunt Boutique

Kamalpokhari,City Centre Tel:4011818

Binamarg,Durbarmarg Tel:4233155

Rosarini

Glitter Box

Tripureshwor,UWTC Tel:411714 7

Kamalpokhari,City Centre Tel:4011522

Isa Dora Tindhara Pathsala Complex Tel:4243475

Sphinx Kamalpokhari,City Centre Tel:4011755

Durbarmarg,Kathmandu Tel:4246483

navyaata magazine