In all my years, I have come to understand that time is the greatest luxury and I want to maximise on the greatest experiences of my life. Each journey whether a simple one from Kathmandu to Bhaktapur or Nagarkot… or ones to more distant lands has created for me the most memorable chapters of my life. I have met the most incredible people in the most unexpected ways. For example, as I walked in the Bhaktapur square one winter Saturday afternoon, I was approached by a young boy in his early teens – old and well used sweatshirt, straggly hair and a fabulous smile. He wanted me to see his thangka painting at a nearby school where he was learning the art. He was not trying to sell me anything, he just wanted me to have a look and know what I thought. After sharing a cup of tea that he bought me, I asked him why he chose to ask for my opinion; he didn’t know me after all. His answer got me by surprise. He recognised me from the magazine and said that he bought a copy every now and then, although he couldn’t afford one every month but he hoped to be featured one day when he had made it big. I was deeply touched. Similarly, seated in a restaurant in New York with my husband, sister and brother-in-law, I was approached by a friendly waiter who gave us the best treatment and attention, and only towards the end of the meal when we thanked and congratulated him for his hospitality did he mention that he was an avid ‘the boss’ magazine reader. In retrospect when I think of the special moments linked to my travels – yes there is always a splendid sunrise, breathtaking architecture, or simply the way a place unfolds – but more often than not, each memory is linked to a special moment shared with another human being. I think within each one of us is a story that remains untold… and the best person to tell that story is really YOU. Life is the best journey – even if you don’t get the opportunity to travel many miles, believe in the impossible, hold on to the incredible, create meaningful journeys, dream dreams, live your life to the fullest! Until the next issue,
swadhwa@vow.com.np
i see it
editor’s pick
There is a pleasure in the pathless woods, There is a rapture on the lonely shore, There is society, where none intrudes, Corporate Associate Editor By the deep sea, and music in its roar: I love not man the less, but Nature more. Charu Chadha
I love travelling and I especially enjoy airports… just that sense of purpose in each person’s stride as they make their way to a destination. Travel is a world in itself… expands your horizon like nothing else ever can. To think of all the planes, trains, buses and cars moving from one point to another in a seamless flow of reaching somewhere, connecting you to a new experience is amazing. While we are asleep, cocooned in our beds, there are millions of others finding new routes, new destinations. Ever since I was a kid, just going around the next bend on my bicycle, I have always loved the adventure of travel – the unknown, something different, something new. And I feel the same way today… even though now the ‘next bend’ may be on another continent.
the w ay
Within each one of us is a story that remains untold
Catching the stars in my palm, I sat on the brick stairs of my terrace counting the million possibilities of life and living. As a 15 year old, if somebody had told me that I would be a journalist one day… I wouldn’t have known. I didn’t actually know until I finished a journalism course. I had simply joined the course to give company to a friend and to utilise my early morning hours… I had never dreamt of wanting to be a trader of words, never dreamt of seeing my byline in the newspapers… but destiny has its way and my trade found me. I knew, in my heart, I could be anybody I wanted to be… but the most important of all was first to be – JUST ME! Exploration is in my soul – I knew I had to find an adventure at every crossroad, meet people, share new experiences, walk to distant places, climb higher mountains, follow the river, catch stars in my palm, feel the sunrays dancing in my hair, run like the wind – without care, always free! Even to this day, nothing nourishes my soul more than being in the wild… in nature. The open skies, the ground beneath my feet, the air… pulsating, breathing, living… and reaffirming my faith in the miracle of life. Every chance I get, I pack a bag and set off on a magical little journey that will have moments that take my breath away, help me realign myself with who I really am… living each moment without a single plan, meeting people without appointments, happy and content knowing that tomorrow when I am gone, that little magical mountain, this flowing river, the beautiful air would cast its spell on yet another seeker.
September 2011 Volume 7 | Issue 12
beauty Beauty Tips 24 Lux Everyday tips on beauty that every woman should know
26
Lakme makeup tips Be camera-ready! Makeup tips for a photogenic you Beauty Q & A with Dolly Singh
26
Sunsilk hair expert Simple puff, sophisticated look! September elegance
56
My Beautiful life Neelima Sharma tells us about her favourites
41
ejoicing
56
male menu A Bride 32 Wanted: If you had to put out
a matrimonial ad for yourself‌
savor 41 Savor Rejoicing Relationships Feature 52 Special IDEAS that are WORTH SPREADING First TEDx event held in Kathmandu!
T he power to create change
september 2011
career & finance & Lovely 36 Fair Career Guidance 37 38
regulars 9
The way I see it
Conquer your dread over oratory
9
Editor’s Pick
Career Q & A with Dr Niti Rana
17 My Cup of Tea
Woman at work The Orchid Seller! Deepa Rai Pun
30 Hold My Hand
15 Let’s Talk The best thing about being me!
34 Relationship
How to be a happy mom?
58 Reflections
54
Woman to Watch Flying High! Saliha Banu
A place called Home
60 VOW Living
Turning to Feng Shui
70 VOW Sex Rules
Comfort Sex: A Virtue or a Bane
child care your teen 30 Does have an eating
disorder? Find out all about your child’s unhealthy relationship with food
72 Animal Anecdotes The death of a pet… What pet owners should know, and what vets should do.
73 Pet Q&A with Dr Saroj Yadav
84 Star signs
Are you too busy for love?
entertainment 20 I spy Quiz & Polls 74 VOW Can't focus? 76 VOW Spices Picks 79 Flick Your guide to happening movies, music and books
80 82
Musical Conversation The tune in his heart Satya Mohan Joshi New Spark
health, fitness & nutrition and Diet 62 Nutrition Let's have some meaty talk…. Health Feature 64 Losing hair? Act now. 66 Exerfile Stiff shoulders? Here’s how you can relax them
66 68
Fitness Q & A with Sandesh Palungwa Limbu Health Bulletin Mental Health Q&A with Dr Sharad Man Tamrakar Medical Q & A with Dr Bharat Rawat Dr Neil Pande Dr Ruchi Saxena Dhakal
vow Cover Look
Publishing Committee Managing Editor/CEO - Shalini Wadhwa Editor - N P Shrestha Corporate Associate Editor - Charu Chadha Photo Editor - Sanchit Lamichhane
Editorial Assistant Editor - Poonam Maharjan Reporters - Evelyn Moktan, Samridhi Rana, Pramila Rai Interns - Malvika Biswas, Avant Shrestha
Art & Design Designers Bindu Kumar Tandukar, Anup Man Shrestha Saliha Banu is hungry for more and she is sure to get whatever she sets her heart on. Turn to page 54 to know more about this pretty lass... Photographer: Rajiv Shrestha Makeup & Hair: Ritu Pradhan, Tel: 9849274583 Wardrobe & Accessories: Elegant, Shop No. T28, City Centre, Kamal Pokhari Tel: 4011522 Cover design: Bindu Kumar Tandukar
Art & Design Support Senior Designer - Bikram Chandra Majumdar Designers - Ajit Sharma, Sudin K Shrestha
Photography Photographers - Nibendra Pradhananga Sanu Raja Maharjan, Shankar Bir Byanjankar
All editorial enquiries should be sent to Charu Chadha at GPO Box: 2294, New Baneshwor, Kathmandu, Nepal Fax: (977-1) 4782100, Email: editorial@vow.com.np All advertising enquiries should be sent to Charu Chadha at GPO Box: 2294, New Baneshwor, Kathmandu, Nepal Tel: 4780450, Fax: (977-1) 4782100, Email: marketing@vow.com.np Pokhara Office : Pokhara, Naya Bazar
Marketing Assistant Manager - Budhi Katel Senior Executive - Binod Thapa Executive - Abhishek Bhakta Shrestha Marketing Assistant - Insan Dheke
Tel: 061-538913, Mobile: 9856026572 VOW
is published monthly from Kathmandu, Nepal by Speciality Media Pvt.
Ltd., GPO Box: 2294, New Baneshwor, Kathmandu, Nepal. Tel: 4780450, Fax: (977-1) 4782100, Email: vow@vow.com.np The contents of this publication may not be published in any form
Subscription & Distribution Manager - Raju Singh Bajiko Executives - Radhya Shyam Gambanjar, Rakesh Prajapati
whatsoever, without the prior written consent of the publishers. All materials©vow. A note to readers The views expressed in articles are the authors’ and not necessarily those of VOW. Authors
may have consulting or other business relationships with the
companies they discuss. While every precaution is taken, no responsibility is assumed for the return of unsolicited material. All opinions expressed herein are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect on the publisher. The contents may not be reproduced in any form without the prior consent of the publisher. All rights reserved. Publisher – Speciality Media Pvt Ltd CDO Regd. No 33/061/62 Process (CTcP) by Qualitech Scan & Pre-press Pvt Ltd. Printed at Print Point, Tripureshwor, Kathmandu Tel : 4261314, 4256396 Distributor: Kasthamandap Distributor
Support team Chief Accountant - Birendra Dhoj Shrestha Executive-Accounts - Jaya Prakash Shrestha Editorial Secretary - Abish Bhattarai Secretary Administration - Alisha Shakya
VOW, you rock!
Since the first time I laid my hands on my first copy of VOW in 2007, I have been hooked to it. I make sure to read it every month. Editor’s pick is very insightful and very often inspiring as well. Besides the usual Relationship, My Cup of Tea, Male Menu and Hold my Hand columns, Child Care and Animal Anecdotes too are very informative. VOW is doing a commendable job in shaping young minds like mine. From the stressful teen days to today, VOW has helped me grow up to be a good, loving and above all, positive woman. Being born as a girl is the best thing to have ever happened to me... and VOW made me realise that. I just want to show my appreciation to the entire VOW team for bringing this magazine to all of us. Thank you VOW. You rock! – Sajnaa Dangol, Lokanthali
You saved my hair…
I can’t tell you how happy I was to read the hair tips from the experts in your August issue. I have always been using henna on my hair as I grew up believing that it deeply conditions hair while actually giving it a really nice colour. But then my hair is really dry and de-conditioned, although I love the colour it gives to my hair. I always buy henna from local stores while paying zero attention to the ingredients in it. I am sure my carelessness and ignorance are the reasons my hair has been suffering for so long. Thanks for enlightening me and saving my hair from further damage. – Sulochana Sharma
More pictures please!
I work with UNDP and we have subscribers of VOW here. The best part of the magazine is definitely the content that you have. That in itself sets the magazine apart from the others. However, I have a suggestion. I think you should really increase the number of pictures inside. Just a suggestion… otherwise you are a great magazine! – Samten
Bring forth stories of ‘new’ people too…
VOW was a magazine I used to pick up monthly, even subscribed to it, but sadly, after seeing the same people again and again I stopped subscribing to it. I recently got hold of one again and I’d like to say it is still one of the best magazines in terms of All letters on this page recieve a gift hamper from Foot Fetish, foot and body treatment. Tel : 4700701
content but there are many more people out there who deserve the celebrity status, and the less privileged ones whose stories need to be heard and brought out. It is not just a rich people’s magazine, is it? – Mayo
I love VOW online too!
I am currently in Boston, USA for my higher studies and besides friends and family, I really missed reading VOW in hard copy, because the online version of VOW used to be really annoying… but of late, I am so glad you guys have actually introduced the e-magazine. It’s almost like flipping through the hard copy. Now VOW is still very much a part of my life like it used to be when I was back in Nepal. And I must say, VOW has only outshined itself with every new issue. I am so proud I am a regular VOW reader. – Sarmila Dangol
Being young!
It was really refreshing to see the youths from various spheres being featured in your August issue. We can hear so many Nepali youths complaining about being born in Nepal, which at times I myself do, but seeing the zest in them, I have realised that nothing is impossible, and that when you are young, you have even more possibilities. I have promised myself that I will not sit back and complain, but just do whatever I can for myself, my family and my country. Thank you for giving me a reason to celebrate being young! – Kalyan Sharma, Battisputali
The best letter on this page has won a Meal Voucher for two (excluding beverages) at Krishnarpan, a speciality Nepali restaurant at Hotel Dwarika’s.
My Cup of
Tea
Come host our next session of
My Cup of Tea Tell us what you want to talk about & who you’d like to invite.
Let’s discuss issues, exchange notes or
simply gossip send us an e-mail at editorial@vow.com.np
Please collect your gift from the VOW office, New Baneshwor Tel: 4780394 subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 15
Date: 1 August PARTICIPANTS Soma Pant, French language teacher, Rupy’s International School Poonam Mudvari, Board Member, Ama Foundation Saloni Rajbhandari, Marketing Manager, JSB Financial Towers Binson Shrestha, Marketing Assistant, International Club Punam Awale, Administrative Assistant, HAMS Hospital
The Best thing about
being
d to but I am a great choice. I don't preten "I might not be someone's first choice, of some d at being me. I might not be proud be someone I'm not, because I'm goo be I'm proud of who I am today. I may not of the things I've done in the past, but or watch way God made me. Take me as I am per fect, but I don’t need to be. I am the me as I walk away!" Tea sees ous quote, this edition of My Cup of nym ano us tero dex ve abo the like t Jus about ir own individualistic self as they talk the ring figu s ant ticip par rful nde wo five find out about being themselves. Read on to gs thin t bes the are ieve bel y the at wh what they had to say…
16 | VOW | september 2011
If I have to talk about the best thing about being me, then most certainly I am blessed with a loving family and a great set of friends around me. I am really lucky when it comes to my friends because I tend to be really dominating at times, and fortunately, they tolerate my tantrums even as they snap a “You can’t govern us” time and again. But I guess, I have that ability to mould myself and adjust to whatever situation I am put into. For example, since I work in the field of marketing, I can’t be all dominating as I am with friends. With my clients I am more pleasant and patient… I have this big smile on my face even when I am disgruntled inside. The clients complain, sometimes without any mistake on my part, and yet I have to handle it very calmly. But I guess when you are very calm while someone is angry, the calmness works like magic and helps vanquish the other person's anger. My friends also tell me that I am happy and easy going, which I believe is true. I am happy because I don’t keep anything in my heart. I don’t pretend, rather I say things as I feel it. So I am generally straightforward and blunt, but I do have to control myself many times, even with some friends, Saloni Rajbhandari because I like to maintain good relations with everyone. But it’s with my best friend that I am truly me. She has seen me in all my colours, and yet she understands me so well, I don’t need to pretend at all with her. Having said that, I am not a totally different person when I am not with my near and dear ones. Of course I try to control certain aspects from showing to everyone, but then there isn’t a “paradigm shift” in my overall attitude.
Punam Awale
I am a very friendly, happy and a quiet person, very content with whatever I have in my life. And the one thing about me that amuses everyone including myself is the fact that I don’t get angry at all. I hardly quarrel with my friends or family members. Even if a fight breaks out, if there are things I don’t agree with a family member, a relative, or just anyone, I stay calm. And calmness works magic, trust me. My near and dear ones often tell me that I am someone who always wins by remaining silent. But, I do know that silence cannot be the answer to everything. Very often, my friends and family members chide me for being so silent all the time. Even when I do speak, my voice is generally hardly audible, and I have to often repeat what I need to say. I have been trying to improve on this, but not with much success. In fact, I am not a very good conversationalist either. In a gathering of family and friends, I simply sit quietly and listen… I hardly speak, and it’s really annoying I know, because they often get irritated with my quietness. Generally it’s the other way round – people get irritated with people who talk too much. But I do share my feelings with my husband and father-in-law. They understand me very well, and despite encouraging me to speak without hesitation, they respect the kind of person I am. I know silence is golden, but usually I mull over why I am such an introvert and it’s very frustrating. But then again, since I have so many people around me who tend to understand how I am feeling even through my silence, I really feel blessed. Besides, I am also very friendly, independent and patient.
subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 17
Binson Shrestha
I am a happy person by nature. I have the ability to enjoy and make the best out of every situation. I stay focused at the present moment and celebrate every little thing that I have got, and rarely worry about things that are not with me. I also have this habit of smiling a lot. And this nature of mine has brought a positive change in my family – whenever there are problems, ups and downs in my family, I try to push in positive vibes and make the environment less tense. It works most of the times. And I guess the best in me comes out when I am with my elder brother. I can be totally myself while I am with him. Of course I am not somebody else when I am with others, but due to so many factors like respect, time constraints, situations, etc, I have to subdue certain traits of mine and only bring out those aspects that might help me be in control of the situation. I can’t act all cool and give my widest smiles when my boss is telling me some bad news about work, can I? So it goes without saying, another good thing about being me is that I can mould myself into whatever the situation demands of me. Of course I must mention that procrastinating is my Achilles’ heel, but I do make sure that I complete my work anyhow.
Positivity is one trait that has remained constant in me, and I have always firmly believed that one should have a positive outlook and never give up in life. Believing that nothing is impossible, I do my best and try to face all the challenges in life because I believe that one should never stop trying and do not ever underestimate oneself. Furthermore, I am a straightforward person. Instead of sugar-coating my words or staying silent, I would rather tell people what I really think of something. Also, because I worked in China for 15 years teaching French to children, I think I am more comfortable being around children, befriending them, talking with them, helping them grow… but should the need Soma Pant arise, I am also equally strict and know when and how to limit my friendliness. And it works. Of course I tend to get sentimental pretty soon and I am notorious for trusting people almost blindly, even ones whom I barely know – the trait which has made me taste betrayal quite a number of times… but with experience, I have tended to take life easily and accept things as they come. Because people change, circumstances change… and no matter how regretful you are one day and full of pride the other day, it is very likely that people hardly notice. Today is life, you don’t know what’s there tomorrow. So right now, I am just learning to enjoy life… partying with friends, travelling to new places and just remaining positive no matter what. And I guess these are the best things about being me because there are very few people who have understood this little secret to a happy life.
Poonam Mudvari
I am a kind of person who follows my heart. Though my ideas and opinions may vary from others, I hold my chin up and work on it and make the best of what I have. I know it’s not really practical all the time to follow my heart, but doing so puts me at ease. And the deep sense of satisfaction of having followed my heart no matter what the consequences are, also gives me many reasons to embrace life in all its forms. Of course, there are times when you have to make compromises and think really hard before succumbing to your heart, but then I don’t compromise just to please somebody. It just doesn’t work for me as long as I know that I am right and as long as I am sure that I will have no regrets. For instance, if I am involved in a project, I give my 100 percent to it, but at the end of the day, I also do want to see my contribution reflect in the outcome of the project. I can’t let someone walk away with all the credit. So, I have always found inner peace when I am working with like-minded people. For me, having and retaining my identity are two very important things. And I believe following my heart fulfils that purpose – that’s precisely the best thing about being me. I wouldn’t lose my identity, my individuality for anything in life – not even for the sake of relationships. I might sound (and appear) rather selfish, arrogant and quite uncanny but those who really know me at heart know that I am someone who is very caring, loving, nurturing and fun loving. And I am really glad that these people are there in my life.
Text» Evelyn Moktan, Pramila Rai & Malvika Biswas 18 | VOW | september 2011
Photos» Sanu Raja Maharjan
subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 19
I spy divided we stand, united we fall
jai hos! Bharat Mohan Adhikari, Hisila Yami
happy days are here again
Pradeep Kumar Shrestha
Former PM Jhalanath Khanal
ke ho ke ho
happy birthday to me! and me! and me!
the elephant walk
Anil Shah Sunil Babu Pant Yadav Kharel
moods
zest in life Abhi Subedi
ŠVOW photofile/CC/SL/NP/SRM/SB
borrring
a moment withe the goddess
Sugarika KC, Dhiraj Rai
20 | VOW | august 2011
doctors day out
hands on not so funny
prayer flags on the butt not stylish at all
Baba Sarkar Shrestha Kiran KC
smile please father and son
Adrian Pradhan
Sadichha Shrestha
stroke of genius
soch
Rajesh Ghimire
what's going on
Everyday tips on beauty that
every woman should know Massage to fight wrinkles
Massage stimulates circulation and brings more oxygen to the face reducing puffiness and wrinkles. It stimulates the
For those who wear glasses or sunglasses
If you wear glasses or sunglasses, make sure you clean them frequently to keep oil from clogging the pores around your eyes and nose.
For dry skin
To get rid of skin dryness, mix gram flour with curd. Apply on face and remove once it dries off.
Tea for puffy eyes
Body acne
With acne on the body it is best not to wear tight clothes. Tight clothing does not allow skin to breathe and may cause irritation. Scarves, headbands, and caps can collect dirt and oil too.
Night skin nourishing
water for three to five minutes and let it cool until they are warm to touch. On lying down, close your eyes, and place a tea bag over each eye; then cover with a soft cloth and leave for 15 to 20 minutes. You can also put cooked tea bags in the refrigerator and apply them on your eyes for a refreshing experience.
Normal skin: Normal skin feels comfortable. Those lucky enough with this skin type have a proper balance of moisture and oil production to have smooth, healthy skin with minimum breakouts. Dry skin: Dry skin can affect any age group but one tends to get susceptible as we grow older. The skin feels uncomfortable and tight, often with dry patches that can get itchy. Due to lack of oil, skin becomes prone to fine lines with wrinkles starting to appear.
production of collagen and tightens the skin thereby delaying the onset of wrinkles. Wrinkles on the forehead are often caused due to involuntary tightening of the muscles.
Green tea and black tea both work well to soothe puffy, irritated eyes. Caffeinated teas help constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling, while herbal teas (especially chamomile) contain anti-irritants that soothe redness and inflammation. Steep two tea bags in hot
Find out what your skin type is‌
Mix few drops of glycerine, olive oil and rosewater in a table spoon of milk. Apply on face, neck and hands before sleeping at night. Wipe off in the morning or take a lukewarm water bath.
Pore cleanser
Dip four almonds in milk and leave it for the night. Mash it in the morning and mix the mashed almonds in rose water. Apply before bathing.
Oily skin: Oily skin occurs when the sebaceous glands work overtime and produce too much oil, resulting in a shiny and greasy appearance. Large pores often are a characteristic of those with oily skin and teenagers frequently experience pimples and acne. Combination skin: Combination skin is tricky to care for because some areas are dry while some oily, and some perfectly normal. Oily areas are usually in the T-zone – forehead, nose, and chin, while dry areas are common on the outer areas of the cheeks. Many oil-producing glands are on the T-zone making it most prone to pimples.
Be camera ready! Makeup tips for a
photogenic you Get camera–ready with these makeup tricks and tips. Whether a photoshoot or an apearance on TV, here's how...
Q&A BEAUTY
I am 21 years old and have semi-brown complexion. I want to experiment with new colours in eyeliners. Please suggest some tips and tricks. Thank you. – B Chaudhari A black eyeliner would work on you best, but not too terribly dark. I also believe an aquamarine or turquoise liner would also look cute and complement your complexion. You can also try copper brown. As strange as this may sound, do apply white eyeliner to the inner corner of your eyes. This instantly brightens the eyes, makes them look bigger and makes them ‘pop’. If you still want to know more, or have other queries, don’t hesitate to contact me.
1. Fresh and clean: Make sure your skin is clean and smooth, as the camera catches and highlights oily or dry skin. Don’t forget to apply moisturiser and wait for it to settle down before you start with your primer.
2. Don’t skip the primer: A primer is going to be your good friend, so
don’t forget to use it. It makes your skin smoother and helps in diminishing your lines, scars and pores. After about half a minute of applying the primer, start with your foundation.
3. Use a foundation: Because SPF can sometimes cast a white light on
the skin when we are caught in camera, it is wiser to use a non-SPF liquid or crème foundation. Blend it well and take extra care around the hairline and jaw line. The camera can easily find faults.
4. Avoid using shimmery bronzers and blush: Usually, the camera is not kind to women who use shimmery powders. A matte bronzer that is only slightly darker than your skin tone will be more effective.
5. Use an eye shadow base or primer: Using this helps keep your eye-shadow and eyeliner intact, and avoid smudging. Like the matte bronzer, matte eye shadows will work much better. If you insist on using shimmer, do tone it down. Neutral shades like beige, soft brown, soft pink, and peachy colours will look good.
DOLLY SINGH, proprietor
of Dolly’s Exquisite Creations, will answer all your beauty and makeup queries. Email your questions to editorial@vow.com.np Contact her at 4445080.
A trick: For brighter and bigger eyes, put a small amount of a champagnecoloured eye shadow in the inner corner of each eye.
6. Apply more colours on your cheeks than usual: Enhance and brighten your face while balancing out the eyes and lips. Look for colours such as soft pinks or peachy tones.
7. Lip liner: Stick to a lip liner that is the same colour or a shade lighter
than the lipstick. The work of the lip liner is to define your lips, not to make it stand out. Choose a lip colour that will enhance but not overwhelm your look. Avoid pale or nude-coloured lips, and choose something soft, bright, and medium in terms of shade and depth.
From the makeup gurus: Reetu Pradhan: Blending is very important as the makeup should be perfectly even from every angle. The eyes and the cheeks are to be prominently highlighted. Makeup for the camera also depends on the face cut as we have to understand which part needs contouring and work on it. Pancake makeup looks great on the camera. Sophie: It is important that the skin pores are not visible to the camera. All the flaws should be hidden well beneath the makeup. The foundation should match your skin tone.
24 | VOW | september 2011
subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 25
Simple puff,
sophisticated look! September elegance
©VOW photofile/Shankar Bir Byanjankar
This forget-me-not month is an apt time to meet your loved ones, be it for a small event or a big party! You can get away with a super simple puff hairstyle ‘looking simply chic’ with your hair back and away from your face. However, remember to leave your bangs or shorter layers to fall out. Steps • • •
•
• • •
Shampoo, condition, wash your hair properly and blow dry with a radial hair brush. Use a fine-toothed tail comb to separate the section of your hair for the puff. Now slightly backcomb the separated section of your hair to shape up the puff and pull it backwards. Then slightly brush the puff from above to give it a smooth finish. Pull the hair on your sides to the back and tie it with a strong, thin rubber band, bringing both sides of the hair together. Push the backcombed smoothened hair a little forward to heighten the puff. Use bobby pins to secure the hair in place. Apply hair spray on the puffed hair to set in place. Add accessories (optional) for a more attractive look.
Things • • • • • •
you’ll need:
Hair dryer Radial round hair brush Fine tooth tail comb Few bob hair pins A strong, thin rubber band Hair spray
Model:
Surabhi Rajbhandari,
student, Wellesley College Hair type: Mid-length, normal Rajesh Ghimire is hair stylist, makeup artist and proprietor of Arden the Beauty Point, Kandevsthan Complex, Tel: 5011778 Clothes courtesy: Uttam’s Creations, Kupondole, Tel: 5528406
child care
Does your teen have
an eating disorder? Find out all about your child’s unhealthy relationship with food Are you concerned that your teen may have an eating disorder, an obsession with food and/or weight that harms your teen’s well-being? Although we all worry about our weight now and then, youngsters with eating disorder either starve themselves from gaining weight (anorexia), or eat uncontrollably (binge eating). The growing number of celebrities flaunting skinny figures and the size zero fad don’t help either. Neither does the increasing trend of ready-to-eat, junk-food lifestyle. So if you are unsure as to how you can help your teen cope with an eating disorder, here are some guidelines as to how you can recognise and deal with anorexia and binge eating.
ANOREXIA
Anorexic teens have a real fear of weight gain and a distorted view of their body size and shape – they think they are fat even when they are actually very thin. Many teens with anorexia restrict their food intake by dieting, fasting, or excessively exercising. It is an emotional disorder that focuses on food, but it is actually an attempt to deal with perfectionism and a desire to control things by strictly regulating food and weight. Anorexic teens often feel that their self-esteem is tied to how thin they are. 28 | VOW | august september 20112011
Someone with anorexia might: • • • •
become very thin, frail, or emaciated. weigh herself repeatedly. count or portion food carefully. only eat certain foods, avoiding foods like dairy, meat, wheat, etc. • exercise excessively. • feel fat despite being skinny. • be depressed, lethargic and feel cold despite warm weather.
Effects of anorexia
• A drop in blood pressure, pulse, and breathing rate
• Hair loss and brittle fingernails • Loss of regular periods • Lanugos hair, soft hair that can grow all over the skin • Light-headedness and inability to concentrate • Anaemia • Swollen joints • Brittle bones
Tips for dealing with anorexia
• Acknowledge her condition and also make her admit that she has a problem. The first step in anorexia recovery is the sufferer admitting that her relentless pursuit of thinness is out of her control and acknowledging the physical and emotional damage that she’s suffered because of it. • Talk to her although it can be hard for her to talk about what she’s going through, especially if she’s kept her condition a secret for a long time. She may be ashamed, ambivalent, or afraid, so you have to make her feel that she’s not alone. Be a good listener, and assure her that you are someone who will support her as she tries to get better. • Keep her away from people, places and activities that trigger her obsession with being thin. She might need to avoid looking at fashion or fitness magazines,
spend less time with friends who constantly diet and talk about losing weight, and stay away from weight loss websites. • Consider seeking professional help. The advice and support of trained eating disorder professionals can help her regain her health, learn to eat normally again, and develop healthier attitudes about food and her body.
BINGE EATING
An eating disorder in which one consumes huge amounts of food while feeling out of control and powerless to stop is binge eating. A binge eating episode typically lasts around two hours, but some binge on and off all day long. Binge eaters often eat even when they’re not hungry and continue eating long after they’re full. They may also gorge themselves as fast as they can while barely registering what they’re eating or tasting.
A binge eater might:
• indulge in frequent episodes of
uncontrollable binge eating. • feel extremely distressed or upset during or after bingeing.
•
Effects of binge eating
• Abnormally high blood pressure levels and the possibility of diabetes. • Possibility of a problem with the patient's gall bladder. • Low self-esteem • Tooth decay (from exposure to stomach acids)
Tips for dealing with binge eating
• Help them manage stress by motivating them to exercise, meditate, use sensory relaxation strategies, and practice simple breathing exercises. • Give them three meals a day plus healthy snacks. Follow breakfast with a balanced lunch and dinner, and healthy snacks in between. Stick to scheduled mealtimes, as skipping meals often leads to binge eating later in the day. • Rid your home of tempting food because your teen is much more likely to overeat
•
•
•
•
if there are junk food, desserts, and unhealthy snacks in the house. Discourage dieting because the deprivation and hunger of strict dieting can trigger food cravings and the urge to overeat. Instead of dieting, focus on eating in moderation. Encourage her to work out because not only will exercise help her lose weight in a healthy way, but it also lifts depression, improves overall health, and reduces stress. Help her fight boredom healthily by suggesting her to take a walk, call a friend, read, or take up a hobby such as painting or gardening. Ensure that she gets enough sleep because a tired body might keep her wanting to keep eating in order to boost her energy. Support her because she’s more likely to succumb to binge eating triggers if she lacks a solid support network. Talking helps, even if it’s not with a professional.
subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 29
hold my hand Shalini Wadhwa
I see darkness everywhere… my mom’s life was a tragedy, mine is becoming like hers… I am a young girl of 23. I am currently working in a company and also studying at the bachelor’s level. My problem is my own life. Actually I have a small family… just two sisters and my mom. I don’t have my father. Our family doesn’t have a smooth relationship with other relatives who always try to put us down and look for any little reason to humiliate us. My mom used to tell me that our father had died when I was a child. But now my elder sister says that my mother was married with two men and both of them left her. My elder sister belongs to the first husband which means that we are step sisters. However, my sister loves me the most. My mother has been working in a company but she is very tired. Her life has been tragic and sad. Whenever I have tried talking about our father, she cries. The other members of our family dominate us and we are completely helpless. Our neighbours have raised a lot of questions about my family, especially about my father. My mother always looks tired, messy and sad… and I cannot do anything for her. I know it was very difficult for her to survive and to raise us. Unfortunately, I seem to be following in her footsteps as my life is becoming more and more like hers. I was in a relationship with a man three years ago. Our relationship was kept in the dark. He never introduced me to any of his friends and families. However, I trusted him. He even proposed marriage several times to increase physical intimacy but I rejected it and severed the relationship with him. But he used to call me frequently. When 30 | VOW | september 2011
he saw me on the road he even tried to talk to me, but I just ignored him. He knows all the secrets of my family, but he has never tried to take advantage of me. I continue to love him more and more and cannot forget him. It has been almost seven months that he has neither called me, nor have I seen him around. Now I wish to meet him again, to talk to him again. I am really afraid to start a new relationship and I cannot even contemplate marriage with anyone else. Sometimes my mother tries to guess what is wrong with me but I can’t share anything with her. I cannot concentrate on my studies and am unable to make any progress in my career. I have back papers to take too. Because of all these reasons I feel low and depressed. I think it is meaningless that my mother gave birth to me because I have been unable to do a single thing for her or even for myself. I see darkness everywhere. – name withheld You are a kind and sensitive person, and despite the many difficulties, you have been blessed with a mother who loves you and has courageously raised you despite many challenges… you also have a loving sister. Society can be very unforgiving and harsh, but that is only if you constantly seek approval from it. You are right in wanting to take care of your mother and giving her a good life. While monetarily it may seem a challenge right now, don’t give up on the intention ever… things will change. Meanwhile, care can come in so many other forms – just for her to feel loved for, respected and cared for will mean a million times more than the comforts that you will eventually buy for her. As for your relatives, stop seeking their approval. You can only continue to be a
Charu Chadha
good person and a good member of the family… you cannot change who and what they are. Don’t wish them bad, but neither do you have to feel small or belittled in any way. Stand up for your rights when you need to, otherwise just lead your life as you wish. Also, don’t draw parallels with your mother’s life. You have this fantastic gift of life and you can make what you want from it. Please focus on what you really want. You made a choice to let go of this man from your life for whatever reason… now don’t look back. He has obviously moved on as well, and you should only wish him well in his life. In time, you will meet the right person and love will happen. Don’t force it. We can see that you often feel confused and empty, but filling your life with complicated relationships is not the answer. You are a young woman and you really need to focus and prioritise… career, studies must take centre stage. You must complete your education and also tr y and acquire more skills that will help you develop as a person and as a career woman. Success takes a lot of hard work, not empty wishes. Dream dreams but also work towards making your dreams come true. Life is not futile, it really is a gift… ask the person suffering from a terminal illness what he would do for just a few more days of a healthy life. Don’t waste time and emotion on self pity. Make something of yourself… and take the first steps – however small – Now! All the best.
I cannot forget him I am a girl of 17 and he is 22. He’s not exactly my boyfriend but we have been in a relationship for about three
years. We call each other BFF and I knew from the very first day that he had a girlfriend. I seriously did not have any problem with it. We went on many casual dates and also became physically close but still called each other BFF. But now I realise that this is not just a friendship. I am helplessly in love with him. My friends say that he is not a good guy and even I feel that what he does with me and his girlfriend is not correct. But I really cannot help myself from loving him. He is the first guy I’ve been so close to and after three years, it has become almost impossible to forget him. When he came to know that I loved him a lot, he told me that he loved me too, but also that he cannot break-up with his girl. He also told me to forget him. This hurt me a lot but I was happy to know that he loved me too. Right now I am totally confused. I had started to feel that he is not going to be mine anyway so I have to try to live without him. I deleted him from facebook and haven’t called him for more than three months. And surprisingly he hasn’t tried to call me either! I love him a lot and I often think of committing suicide. I’ve tried to forget him and move on but it’s not working. I always end up crying. Please help me! Even if I go back to him, will he accept me? What should I do? - name withheld He knows how you feel and he’s made his choice. It’s time you accepted that and moved on. Yes, it hurts like hell and it also feels like it’ll never be okay again… but deep down you know it’s not true. The pain will go away and you will be okay. In fact you must cherish having had this person in your life for however long… thank God for him and now put it behind as a beautiful memory. You have your entire future to look forward to… new people to meet, places to see, experiences to be gained. Don’t turn back. How can you even think of taking your life? Have you ever thought of the consequences of that action – your parents, siblings, friends… what hurt would you be leaving behind and for what… a guy who has chosen to be with another person. Sorry this may sound harsh, but please don’t take this life for granted… you have a bigger purpose to serve in life. You touch so many people by being who you are – don’t you want to simply be the best! Tears are a great release… cry as often as you wish to… but also spare a few tears for the homeless and hungry kids on the street, for the woman who is forced to sell herself for a meal, for the man who works hours and hours for a few rupees that may just help him survive another day… cry a little for your dad who works so hard to support your family or your mom who loves you immeasurably… Trust life! Trust yourself! Trust that all will be well! Keep smiling!
Send your questions to editorial@vow.com.np
subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 31
male menu
Bride
Wanted:
A
If you had to put out a matrimonial ad for yourself… Love can find you in strange places… it could be someone next door, a college hottie, someone with whom you exchange a dreamy smile across a crowded room, on social networking sites, at your workplace, or, well, through a matrimonial ad! Reality is that matrimonial ads continue to help scores of men and women find their better half around the world. In this issue of VOW, we gave some quirky bachelors in town an opportunity to put out a matrimonial ad for themselves. It is interesting to find out what their list of ‘requirements’ is in their search of a potential wife. Some straightforward, some sensitive, some outright funny… we love what they had to share...
Amun Thapa
managing director, sastodeal.com A 24-year-old, six feet tall, light skinned guy is looking for a 25-year-old, five feet tall, dark skinned woman. This gentleman has distinct personalities that sets him apart from the rest of the crowd. First, he does not go where the crowd goes. While there are thousands of men who would love to get their hands on Rakhi Sawant, this guy would stay as far away as possible from girls like her. If there is one thing he hates about such girls, it is their attention seeking mentality. While he does not want to set standards for the girl he seeks, he does have some expectations: career-focused but family oriented, contemporary yet respects traditional values, good sense of humour but not a joker, courteous but not submissive, naïve yet not dull, smart but not arrogant. Warning: If you want to set your life with this man, think first. But if you are a voyager, a change-maker, if you see things differently, treat all people equally, if you love the world you live in, love to see other people smile, and if you believe happiness is the ultimate goal of life, then come along for a ride you have never experienced before.
Badri Pun
LGBT coordinator, Blue Diamond Society I am a 36-year-old man, looking for a sensitive and understanding girl, not more than 25 years of age, to be my life partner. She should be talented, independent and smart with a good head on her shoulders. Good looks not mandatory but should be tidy and presentable. Caste no bar. 32 | VOW | september 2011
Anurag Zimba
lead vocalist for Joint Family; school supervisor/recreational activity coordinator, Children and Youth First (CYF) I am a 27-year-old man who enjoys music, basketball, travelling, movies and bike rides. I am realistic and practical, so I am seeking someone compatible with me. She should be a simple girl who will accept my family as her own, stand by me through thick and thin, and is positive enough to take any criticism that comes her way as an opportunity to better herself. Someone who is unpretentious, shares my views about forgiveness and is willing to work with me as a team is needed. I will respect her individuality and her opinions and of course, love her family. If she wants, I would like her to keep her surname after marriage.
Roshan Adhikari, business reporter, Kantipur Daily
Parents of a 26-year-old man, working in a private media company and settled in Kathmandu, seek a girl for marriage. She should be well educated and independent but family oriented. It is essential that she be from another profession as the would-be groom works odd hours. Good family background and communication skills are musts. Understanding, fair, beautiful and tall girls (not less than 5’2”) are preferred.
Prasanna Shrestha
software engineer, D2Hawkeye Services I am a 26-year-old Virgo male, measuring 182 cm and working as a software engineer. I see life as a continuous transmission of digital data in forms of 0 and 1 with many ups and downs and would like to enjoy each and every bits and bytes till the last. I don’t require anything very grand for hardware (physical outlook) though a little taller with fair complexion would be preferred. However, I expect to find good software (personal characteristics): simple thinking, updated to latest version of education, user friendly, and should be compatible to my BIOS. Low bugs will be handled patiently, but critical bugs like hot temper, stubbornness, and extreme garrulousness should be fixed slowly but surely. Extra functionality like cooking and driving would be preferred, but not included in the requirement doc. As I have been developed and processed in an army environment (dad is a retired army officer), certain military features like discipline, responsibility and roughness are by default installed in me, so looking for someone with good tolerance capability and a decent family background. Dowry is out of scope of the system requirement and there is no specification to caste either, just a simple gal who will be a good backup during my failure (both hardware and software), help me upgrade myself, maintain and service me time and again, share credits of my success, and when I crash, restore me to my initial point of recovery and be a good motherboard to my child products. Text» Pramila Rai Photo» Nibendra Pradhananga subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 33
relationship
How to be
a happy mom?
Being a mother can be an overwhelming experience… and depressingly overwhelming every now and then if you completely forget to indulge in yourself while busy catering to the needs of your children and family. VOW believes that the secret to a happy family is a happy mom. 1 Find time for yourself
Happy moms know they deserve a little time to themselves. When you know you’re going to have a little room to breathe later on in the day, it’s easier to take on everything that’s in front of you. The formula? Take two hours out entirely for yourself at least every three days.
2 Don’t make a happy baby, happier!
All mothers tend to do it… you see your baby’s head tilting at an unnatural angle snoozing in their bed, and because you ‘just know’ that they’ll be happier if their head was straight, you move them. And they wake up. Then they scream. Or, you see them playing happily in the sand, and because you ‘just know’ they’ll be happier if they played on the slide, you interrupt them and move them to the slide. And they’re angry. And they let you know they’re REALLY angry! The moral? They were happy. It can be hard to do, but if your kid’s not complaining, leave them be! After all, happy baby = happy mommy.
3 Embrace the mess
You often fret that your house doesn’t look like something out of a magazine. Chill, that just means it’s cosy! Your children have hands coated in dirt from the playground and faces coated in 34 | VOW | september 2011
daal from dinner. It’s not gross – it’s an adorable photo opportunity! As clichéd as it might sound, life is indeed about how you look at things. Next time that pile of laundry that’s been sitting on the chair for three days starts to get you down, just remember… it’s probably Feng Shui.
4 Make time for your friends
7 Remember your dreams and goals
Everyday we are encouraging our children to reach their full potential. But sometimes, in the midst of being a parent, we forget about our own dreams and goals. The best thing you can do to encourage a child is to lead by example –happy moms hold on to their dreams and goals, and don’t let go.
Your family can survive without you while you make time to see friends. You are a woman with your own identity and it’s imperative that you and that identity go out for some coffee or margaritas once in a while!
Don’t be the uptight mom. Be silly and dance with your kids to their music or TV shows. Be romantic and pull your partner into a waltz. Dancing in slippery socks in your kitchen while making dinner is fun too.
5 Stop blowing yourself off
9 Bend the rules
While you may be the one taking care of everyone, it doesn’t mean you can’t also get what you want. Help your family realise that your needs are as important as theirs and that when mom is happy, everyone is happy, but when mom is not...
6 Get in the zone
Take 10 minutes to do absolutely nothing but rest. Take a break from your day, close your eyes, breathe in slowly and deeply through your nose and exhale through your mouth. Repeat several times. Think about a place you love that is relaxing, spend 10 minutes there in your mind.
8 Be light-hearted
One of the best parts of making the rules is occasionally breaking them. Maybe it’s taking your child out of school for half a day on their birthday, or waking them up in the middle of the night to see a sky of shooting stars. Happy moms know how to turn the mundane into fun.
10 Mind your own business
Concentrate on creating your life the way you want it. Take care of you and your family. Don’t get overly concerned with what other people are doing or saying. Don’t get caught up with gossip or name calling. Stop seeking the validation of others and be confident in yourself.
subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 35
Conquer your
dread oratory over
Does reading the title itself make you nervous? Got that sick feeling in your stomach? The number one fear in the world, ahead of even the fear of death, is the fear of public speaking. Regardless of what some may say, the fear of public speaking is extremely common – even the most genteel speakers have experienced the fear of public speaking. And believe it or not, regardless of the job you are in, a good speaker always has an edge over the others. Your ability to speak effectively in public could be a huge career draw and can almost instantly grab your boss’s attention. Employers are continually looking for employees with excellent communication skills. Think for a moment about someone you know in your workplace who is an excellent speaker. Is it your boss? Your boss’s boss? Don’t get it wrong, not all of your superiors are excellent speakers, but a majority of them are. Having excellent public speaking skills can give your career a jump start. Here are some tips on how to control your butterflies when having to speak in front of a horde:
1. Know your material: When giving presentations in your office or outside, make sure that you know everything that you are going to talk about. In fact, it’s a better idea to know more about it than you include in your presentation or speech. Use humour, personal stories and conversational language – that way you won’t easily forget what to say.
2. Know the audience: Greet some of
the audience members as they arrive. It’s easier to speak to a group of friends than to strangers.
3. Know the room: Arrive early, walk around the speaking area and practise using the microphone and any visual aids.
4. Relax: Begin by addressing the audience. It buys you time and calms your nerves. Pause, smile and count to three before saying anything. Transform nervous energy into enthusiasm.
36 | VOW | september 2011
5. Visualise yourself giving your speech:
Imagine yourself speaking, your voice loud, clear and confident. Visualise the audience clapping – it will boost your confidence.
6. Realise that people want you to succeed: Audiences want you to be interesting, stimulating, informative and entertaining. They’re rooting for you.
7. Don’t apologise: For any nervousness or problem – the audience probably never noticed it.
8. Concentrate on the message, not the medium: Focus your attention away
from your own anxieties and concentrate on your message and your audience.
9. Gain experience: Mainly, your speech
should represent you – as an authority and as a person. Experience builds confidence, which is the key to effective speaking. A Toastmasters club can
provide the experience you need in a safe and friendly environment.
(Contact: Everest Toastmasters Club, Tel: 9851022192/9851078443, or Kathmandu Toastmasters Club, Tel: 4275739)
10. Key principles to always keep in mind
1. Speaking in public is not inherently stressful. 2. You don’t have to be brilliant or perfect to succeed. 3. All you need is two or three main points to present. 4. You also need a purpose that is right for the task. 5. The best way to succeed is not to consider yourself a public speaker. 6. Humility and humour can go a long way. 7. When you speak in public, nothing “Bad” can ever happen. 8. You don’t have to control the behaviour of your audience. 9. In general, the more you prepare, the worse you will do. 10. Your audience truly wants you to succeed.
Mini-quiz to check your understanding on public speaking 1. Why are most people afraid to speak to a group? a) They fear the audience will get angry at them. b) They are afraid of looking foolish. c) It is an excuse for their incompetence.
2. How can you gain confidence in your speaking ability? a) Gather together a series of small speaking successes. b) Only speak before people you know. c) Drink alcohol before speaking.
3. How can you reduce fear of your audience? a) Visualise them as friendly towards you. b) Come in with a hostile attitude. c) Try not to look at them.
Answer: 1. b 2. a 3. a
If you got all three correct, you are on your way to becoming a champion in public speaking. If you had problems, you had better look over the material again.
Q&A CAREER I am in my late 30s and I have been working in a government office for the last 11 years. My job is a desk job and today I find it boring and stressful. Everyday I have to argue with people who come to get their paperwork done. There is never a day I can do my work peacefully, and irritation has reached its height. I had even requested my director to transfer me but nothing has been done so far. Instead he tells me that I am good at my work. I don’t know what to do next. I have to work but my current work has become a pain in my neck. What can I do to make my work less stressful and enjoyable? Please suggest. – Name withheld You are right – boredom, stress and arguments... these may be an everyday reality for those who work in government offices but also for those of us who visit you! One way to relieve your irritation would probably be to remind yourself that your director appreciates your work. Also try and look at things from the other person’s point of view in order to process tasks with as little friction as possible. Getting a transfer would only be running away from the problem. As Gandhi said, “You must be the change you want to see in others” – so try regarding visitors as people in need of your help, understanding and compassion. Begin with small attitudinal adjustments which will not only make them happy but will also make you feel lighter! It is said that more than knowledge and skills, it is your attitude that will give you job satisfaction. Remember that people just want their problems handled as quickly and smoothly as possible and as a government service provider you have a crucial role to play in allaying people’s fears and doubts. As far as making your work more enjoyable, this is purely an internal mechanism and only you can choose your own level of enjoyment. “Wear” your visitor’s shoes for a day and judge for yourself the difference between being friendly and polite vs being nasty and unhelpful. Also do everyone a favour and spread this message around!
Dr Niti Rana, professional
trainer and motivator and director of The New Era Career Development Institute, will answer all your career queries. Email your questions to editorial@vow.com.np Contact her at 4471957.
subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 37
woman at work
The Orchid Entrepreneur! Deepa Rai Pun Founder, DJ’s Orchid Nursery
Deepa Rai Pun, 44, who hails from Panchthar, Ilam, is Nepal’s first orchid entrepreneur. Deepa travels all the way to Godawari, 22 kilometres away from her home (Thankot), to nurse her babies – cymbidium orchids! She’s been nurturing the ‘King of Orchids’ for the last five years. Noted for her sheer hard work, patience and determination, Deepa has won four National Floriculture Exhibition & Trade Fair Awards for the Best Orchid (Standard) in 2011, 2010, 2008 and 2007. 38 | VOW | september 2011
Before getting into the orchid business, Deepa was involved in many fields – around 1993, she and her friend started a packaging business called Crunchy Chips but after a few years, it came to a halt when her friend got married. A strong believer in making the best use of time, she took up diploma courses in Photography and Fashion Designing. And it also came as a surprise to me when this businesswoman told me that she holds a Masters degree in Nepali Literature. Currently, she’s also involved in NASA International College as one of its promoters. VOW caught up with the multi-faceted Deepa Rai Pun to talk about orchids, and her blooming business.
Excerpts How did your career in floriculture develop?
It all started in 2004 when I saw an advertisement in one of the newspapers
calling for candidates for a month long workshop in floriculture. I got myself enrolled and at the end of the training, I stood first among the 30 candidates. This training was organised by Women in Floriculture, and the workshop motivated me to move ahead into floriculture as a career.
Why orchids?
During the training, two days were mainly focused on orchids, and this was enlightening. Then I also came to know that there were only men in the orchid business, that too only six of them! Seeing no contribution of women and so less people involved in this sector, I thought of giving it a shot, and I became the first woman to get into this business, solely on cymbidium orchids and the seventh person in this business. But of course, since childhood, I have been passionate about flowers and plants. Back in Ilam, I used to collect various kinds of flowers and plants. I even had
10-15 potted orchids which I got from Kalimpong, my mamaghar! Well, the orchid is a beautiful flower. You can’t compare its beauty with other flowers. A potted orchid blooms for a period of three months, and even an orchid as a cut flower stays fresh for about a month and half. Not only are orchids long lasting, but they also relax your senses.
Tell us about your typical day at work…
My nursery is spread over an area of three and half ropanis. I have 12 shed houses sheltering around 5000 orchids. I reach there at 10 in the morning, and along with a helper, I water and do all the things necessary to take care of the plants. Luckily, you don’t need many people to take care of orchids. Twice a week, Milan Sotang, an orchid expert, visits and inspects my nursery to check that the plants are healthy. I usually leave at five in the evening. In general, you can say that I end my day playing with flowers!
What are the challenges in this business?
Well, the basic challenge is that we have not yet been able to adopt modern scientific methods to grow and take care of orchids – both in terms of quality and quantity. We are still adhering to traditional techniques, and this is really hampering the orchid business although Nepal is home to many species of orchids still hardly known to the world. Due to the evolution of latest techniques, countries like China, Japan, Korea and Thailand generate over 50,000 orchid plants every year and here we can hardly sum up 10,000 orchids. Secondly, we lack experts who could guide us in our work. You know, this business has a lot of potential, but because there is very little technical support we can rely on, many people hesitate to venture into this business. The government must step in and support to help us grow technically. And last but not the least, investment is a major hurdle, because orchids are pricey flowers.
What do you think of the media’s role in promoting your business?
I believe that media can open a good market for us. Every year, floriculture contributes six to seven crores in the national economy. If media can channelise floriculture properly then there is a good scope and a great potential in this field from where Nepal can greatly benefit. I am trying my hands at social networking sites like facebook… I think it’s a good medium to promote one’s business.
And the rewards?
After planting the orchids, you need to wait for at least three to five years to reap the benefits. Until then orchids will teach you a great lesson in patience! And once it starts to bloom, it will only reap you rewards after rewards because its value keeps increasing along with its age. Text» Evelyn Moktan Photos» Shankar Bir Byanjankar subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 39
40 | VOW | september 2011
savor
ejoicing
Text» Poonam, Evelyn, Samridhi, Pramila Photos» Shankar Bir Byanjankar subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 41
savor
Brothers: Saurabh and Suhrid Jyoti
Meet the “it” Jyoti boys! Saurabh and Suhrid, serious yet witty! These diversified brothers have not only kept their family businesses alive but have also earned for themselves a reverential name and place in the Nepali business and fashion worlds. Both the brothers, who finished their high school from St Joseph’s School in North Point, Darjeeling are gadget savvy and big time movie buffs.
Fond memories of school days
Saurabh: In school, Suhrid was very dependent on me. He always used to come looking for me whenever he was sad or had any problems. I particularly remember Suhrid waiting for me every evening below the stairs of the senior dormitory to get some chocolates. And I always made sure that I had something for him! Suhrid: We were together only for three years and I was really young so I don’t remember much. But I do believe he used to buy me food from the canteen when I was hungry.
While growing up, who bullied whom?
Saurabh: I am the eldest in the family with many cousins so I was the naughtiest and the biggest bully. All of them including Suhrid still have a lot of complaints about how I bullied them. Suhrid: To bully my brother is physically impossible but we did have a lot of fun rough housing.
Ever took pocket money from your brother?
Suhrid: I believe it was the other way around. I think all my pocket money was given to him for safekeeping.
If you could take revenge over something your brother did in the past, what would it be for?
Saurabh: I had just bought a new bike and I am very possessive about my bikes. One day, without my permission he went for a ride and crashed it. I came home and noticed my bike was missing along with his so I knew he was up to something. He avoided me and was scared to tell me. When he finally broke the news I was initially concerned about him and when I learnt that he just had a minor bruise, I was mad at him. But there’s really nothing worth holding a grudge or taking revenge. Suhrid: I don’t recall any major altercations between us.
One thing you’d steal from your brother…
Saurabh: His six pack abs! Suhrid: I regularly steal his bikes! Unfortunately, I crash them too and he always finds out.
42 | VOW | september 2011
When together, you…
Saurabh: Talk business! Apart from that it’s all about gadgets, the latest ones! Suhrid: We also watch movies, play video games, and ride bikes together.
A lesson you have learnt from him…
Saurabh: Suhrid is very caring about the family members and is always there when you need him. Suhrid: I have learnt how to live life to the fullest from him.
Brother and sister Dr Neil Pande and Dr Angela Pande
“When people think he is the younger one, he feels very happy,” informs Dr Angela Pande. With each other to hold on to as siblings, they grew up into the same profession and even work together. They share a fantastic bond - one filled with care, laughter and beautiful memories... There is acknowledged laughter, nostalgia, a few secrets popped – all with a fine balance.
Neil, are you protective of her?
She is a very head-strong woman. I mean, she will do what she wants. She has always been so from childhood, rebel kind of a thing. Even dentistry came as a result of that because I told her not to pursue it as we will end up in the same profession. She was like, why is this guy discouraging me? (Angela snaps) …He was like, “Don’t come to this college. It is not a nice place. Why do you want to study here?” Then I thought either there is something going on or he is having too much fun (laughs). So I made sure I went. (Neil continues)… Protective, yes of course, as a brother, but she has her own ways. She is a rebel, I told you. She will go for a tattoo, go hiking, trekking… so if I ask her to think about it she will be like “yes, okay” but then do it anyways.
Do you worry about her?
Yeah, but I also know that she can handle herself pretty well, but… (Angela interrupts) he does worry. (Neil continues) She doesn’t care! (Angela interrupts again) When I fall sick he gets all worried and will keep calling and researching over the net on what might have happened. When I met with a minor accident some time ago, he was like go for a CT scan pronto. And then I usually end up feeling like oh my God something is really wrong with me (laughs). When I was in school, I wore a short skirt to New Road and Neil and his friend in a tense mode walked behind me throughout. That time I realised that he is very protective of me. (Neil adds) She used to ride a red bike around town… now what brother wouldn’t be worried at that?
Do you both recall your growing years and laugh or get emotional? Both: A lot of times.
How often do you catch up, now that you both are married?
Angela: We meet everyday (both guffaw) (Neil repeats “everyday” and says…) yeah because we work together (with a wide smile). But when we work we don’t get to talk as siblings. At work we meet as professionals – I mean, she calls me Dr Neil and I call her Dr Angela. But at home or outside work it is different (both guffaw again). Of course we live separately now and she has a nicer house and all that (more laughter follows).
subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 43
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Sisters Chandramala Sharma Verma and Nisha Sharma
Sisters Chandramala and Nisha are lively and, throughout the interview, it was evident that they are very close. Chandramala comes across as sombre and serene whereas Nisha by her own admission is lively and bubbling with mischief. They share a similar bond with their two other sisters and a younger brother who live in the US, and their youngest sister who is in Nepal.
What is the best thing about being sisters?
Chandramala: The best thing is that there is no hesitation when I have to talk about anything. It wouldn’t be wrong to state that you don’t need other friends when you have sisters. For support and everything else, we have each other. Nisha: I agree, we are our own support system.
Is there anything you don’t like sharing with each other?
Nisha: We don’t have that tero-mero system… if one of us likes something belonging to the other, then we give or lend it without a second thought!
Do you ever fight or argue?
Chandramala: We only argue about little things like not being punctual or not calling up. When she’s busy, I get mad and say, “You never have time for me when I need you.” But because she remains quiet when I am upset, we never get into a serious verbal dual. Nisha: Yeah, I am busy most of the time and I don’t call her when I am tied up with work. But since we make sure that we talk on the phone or meet at least once a day, she gets worried when she sees no sign of me. At such times I am bound to hear, “Where are you lost? You don’t care, do you?” However our children are what we argue about the most. Like if my children fall ill, all my siblings will call me and ask why I did not take better care of them!
Anything in particular you bond over?
Chandramala: We are very alike – we have similar choices in books, films, music and jewellery. So we have a lot of things to bond over, really.
Any memory of your childhood that you often recall?
Chandramala: (Laughs) Nisha was a very naughty child. When she went out to play, she used to get into fights and beat others. When I was about 13, our mom was hospitalised, and our elder sisters were looking after her. Our grandmom had recently passed away so my father was away doing the rites. I was assigned to stay home and take care of my younger siblings. However, Nisha wanted to go out and play, and every time I did not let her, she kept arguing. So I beat her up. She says she does not remember it but I do, and I regret it. I beat her up badly and still feel terrible about it. Nisha: I remember she used to bathe me but then I sneaked out to play and come back all dirty.
One quality of the other you wish you had.
Nisha: She has that aura of dignity that makes me wish I could be like her. Chandramala: Her outspokenness.
What have you learnt from each other?
Chandramala: Her hardworking nature is an inspiration. Nisha: She manages her work and her home beautifully. I should learn that skill from her.
44 | VOW | september 2011
Grandeur connection Sophie Upadhya and grandchildren Shivalika Rana and Suryaditya Pratap Rana Sophie Upadhya, businesswoman, is a glam grand mom of Shivalika and Suryaditya, children of socialite Vidushi Rana. Her cute grandchildren are enrolled in British School and amidst their tight schedules, the trio don’t miss out on a single opportunity to share precious moments together…
Tell us about being a grand mom.
I was in my late 30s when I held my first grandchild. And holding Shivalika was a joy in my heart. I was seldom away from her. Grandchildren give more pleasure and joy than anything else in this world. And I enjoy being with them anytime… no matter what mood I am in.
Grandparents are famous for pampering their grandchildren. What do you have to say?
“I like my grandmom because…”
Anything about your grandchildren that reminds you of your daughter?
Describe each other in one word…
I pamper them of course, but I don’t spoil them. I am like a friend to them. I play with them and they enjoy my company as I do theirs.
Their eating habits.
How do you keep your grandmom happy?
Shivalika and Suryaditya: We keep her happy by visiting her whenever we can. Seeing us she is always cheerful.
Naughtiness…
Sophie: My grandchildren are not naughty at all. They are very well brought up, just like Vidushi. But at times they are up to harmless pranks like when I have to feed them, they are running all around as they hate to eat. However, I do enjoy every moment with them be it their naughtiness, laughter or talks.
Shivalika: I can go shopping with her, watch movies or read books. Suryaditya: She plays catch-catch or word games with me. I like her when she hugs or carries me. She also takes me wherever I want to go.
Sophie: Lovable Shivalika: Cool Suryaditya: Beautiful
The difference between children and grandchildren…
I was too young when I had my children, so I didn’t know many things about taking proper care of them, but with my grandchildren, I am more understanding and tolerant. It feels like I didn’t have much time for my children, but with my grandchildren I have all the time in the world.
Resemblance
Shivalika is more like me. She is conscious about many things and we share a lot of common things/taste in shopping, movies and books, etc.
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Mother and daughter Basu Timsina and Sanyukta Timsina Which childhood memory of hers is closest to your heart?
Basu: Whenever she would return from school, tired, she would shout for me saying, “mamu…” and would come hug me. You know, how it is, the feeling of being away for some time (smiles). I often recall that. Sanyukta: There are so many. She used to dress me up like a doll, and feed me and… I just cannot choose one.
One trait of your mom you wish, you had?
Sanyukta: Her forgiving nature. I mean, every mother is, but you find your own mother very special. The amount of mistakes that we make in life… she overlooks all of them.
What makes you proud of her?
Basu: Sanyukta is very compassionate. She believes that someday she will do something substantial for others, if not immediately. Seeing her passion and enthusiasm to do ‘that’ is big enough for me and that makes me proud of her. Sanyukta: Everything… everything. I think… (wiping her tears) I just get so emotional you know.
What do you enjoy doing together?
Sanyukta: Shopping and going for movies. And of course, holidaying together! We actually went to France on a holiday. Because my father could not be there, it was just the two of us. The trip has some of our wildest memories. Basu: Cooking together. Sometimes she cooks and sometimes I do… (Sanyukta interrupts) I am not a very good cook but then I help.
Your mom to you means…
Sanyukta: The world. She is the one to bring me into this world, and I just love her so much. Well, not just my mom, I think, both my parents are very important to me. She is my best friend, my worst enemy… there are days when we fight and can’t even see each other with a smile, and there are days when we cry on each other's shoulders.
Two things you want to do for your mom.
First, since she is very religious, I want to take her to the chaar dhaams, and secondly, she wants to go to France again because we could not roam around properly while we were there. So I am going to take her to France again.
46 | VOW | september 2011
Father and son Bhuwan KC and Anmol KC
Bhuwan KC has long ruled the hearts of Nepali movie buffs. And now his young son Anmol is all set to take the KC legacy forward. Soon appearing in a cameo in the upcoming Bhuwan KC led Saathi Ma Timro, Bhuwan is elated on having at least one of his three children follow in his footsteps into the industry. Over coffee, we explore the amazing bond that this filmy father-son duo shares.
How would you define your relationship?
Bhuwan: Anmol is my youngest child and he’s always been very close to my heart. Despite the huge age gap between us, we have always been each other’s friends. Father and son we are, but I don’t think I have ever seen fear from me in his eyes. Anmol: I agree to what dad has to say. Unlike most father-son relationships, I haven’t ever come across the clichéd generation-gap hitch. We have always understood each other so well… basic guidelines about life aside, dad has always let me do what I’ve wanted to. And I have never ever felt the need to hide anything from him. We share everything – even our wardrobe! We have private undergarments though! (Both of them break into laughter)
What in Anmol reminds you of your own youth?
It wouldn’t be wrong to say that Anmol is more or less the replica of my own yester years. He is interested in the same things that I was when I was his age. The way he is enthusiastic about playing the guitar, singing songs, watching movies, modelling… seeing him is like revisiting my own past.
What are some of the things you love doing together?
Bhuwan: We just enjoy being with each other, whether we do something or not. But of course we discuss our work and it’s amazing how our ideas complement each other’s. Anmol: We also go to parties together.
What is the best thing about the other?
Bhuwan: Anmol is a very disciplined person, and very down to earth. Anmol: Dad lets me be me… he is so understanding. He is the coolest dad on earth.
Anything you don’t like about each other?
Bhuwan: He is rather quiet, and not very diplomatic in his approach. It’s good to be frank, but sometimes it can ruin things. Anmol: I wish he quit smoking… or at least did it less frequently. For God’s sake, we have at least three ashtrays in all our rooms, save mine. That drives me nuts!
If you could steal any role from your father…
I would definitely do that from his movies Kusume Rumal and Crorepati. I am (secretly) hoping that he’ll soon make either a sequel or a remake of these movies.
subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 47
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Best friends forever Sahana Vajracharya and Nisha Adhikari
Nepali cinema’s current favourites, Nisha Adhikari, and Sahana Vajracharya, are best friends. Frequently spotted together in public and not-so-public events, the bond they share is pretty apparent in the synchronised laughter they break into. Here’s a friendly chit-chat with the happening besties who also happen to be business partners in their venture Hangers.
How close are you?
I definitely call her and she knows instantly by my voice what state I am in… so it is that crazy. Sahana: I think it’s compatibility that keeps us together. We love watching movies, attending events, going for Sufi, and doing business together of course.
Did you hit off instantly when you first met?
Is it a good idea to be best buddies from the same profession?
Sahana: We share a very mature friendship. We respect each other’s commitments and take criticism gladly. Nisha: I better say something nice or else I will get bashed up (laughs). I love spending time with her and enjoy doing stuff together. She is the best friend.
Sahana: Well, it took a little time. We first met during the Miss Nepal 2008 pageant. We actually interacted in groups but we thought we got along pretty well. Then later when she left for States, I went to Vietnam, and when we got back and met up, we realised we had so many things to share and catch up on.
What keeps you both together?
Nisha: The very fact that we love each other’s company. When I was going through a very tough time in my personal life, she was there for me. When I feel low, 48 | VOW | september 2011
Sahana: It is, because when you belong to the same profession, you tend to understand each other really well. And when you do something together, you tend to do it really well. Being best friends from the same profession might have downsides too but - touchwood - we haven’t experienced any of those yet. Nisha: I agree. When she grows in her career I feel proud, and vice-versa. And when one of us knows someone from the fraternity, it becomes easier for the other because then we can behave accordingly.
How will you describe Nisha in three words?
Sahana: Trustworthy, very mature and very hard-working – both in her career and relationships.
Things Sahana deserves.
Nisha: I cannot limit them. She deserves all the good things.
Husband and wife Major Narendra Kumar Rai and Pushpa Rai
Married for more than three decades, it is almost magical to see Major Narendra Kumar Rai and Pushpa Rai in sync and still deeply in love. Retired but busy and happy, these enthusiastic golf players are members of Gokarna Golf Resort and Royal Nepal Golf Club, and their many trophies adorn their shelves at home. Proud parents of two daughters and grandparents to four, this couple visits Singapore every year to celebrate their wedding anniversary. “He never fails to make me laugh,” Pushpa says, with a big smile. Here’s their story…
How did you meet?
Narendra: I met Pushpa when I was 21, and a cadet in the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the UK, where she was working as a nurse. I guess our chemistry just worked. Later she was posted to Hong Kong, and I believe the distance kept the magic alive. Then I was posted to Singapore which is closer to Hong Kong, and it was easier to meet.
Apart from the separation did you face any difficulties?
Pushpa: There was nothing as such, except the fact that we missed seeing each other. We belong to different castes – he’s a Rai while I was a Thapa Magar. But even that wasn’t an issue for either of us or our families.
They say compromises are vital in marriages. How true is it?
Narendra: Very true. Otherwise it won’t last. Having said that, however, we have not had to make any major compromises for each other. Of course there are the little things like she loves Hindi movies, so I have to go with her, and she is fond of visiting spas, and I accompany her.
Pushpa: Once he was in Belize (Central America) for six months and I was with the children in London. So every time we met it was wonderful.
Do you believe in soul mates?
Narendra: Yes. I think your soul mate is the one you decide to be with. Pushpa: He is my soul mate.
Have you ever forgotten any important dates? How did you make up for it?
Narendra: I forget birthdays and she reminds me rather aggressively. Then I go and quickly buy a bunch of flowers or take her out in the evening. Pushpa: I have not forgotten any important dates… how come he forgets and I have to remind him all the time?
any further at this point in life, I suppose she could have pursued her career further. She did not finish her SRN (Senior Registered Nurse) course. Pushpa: I would probably want to change his typical Rai ko ris.
Do you ever argue?
Pushpa: Of course, sometimes we do have arguments. Narendra: But that adds to the flavour! Our arguments are about nothing in particular. There are so many issues in a marriage. You might be arguing about your friends, what you said about other people, children or relatives… anything under the sun!
And who apologises first, after an argument?
Pushpa: I do. It’s because my temper does not last long.
How do you keep the spark alive?
Narendra: For us, it has been a continuation of our love story… in the army you get separated for long periods of time. I guess that is what kept us going.
How well would you say you know one another?
What is the one thing about each other that you can never get tired of? Pushpa: His jokes! Narendra: Her sense of humour!
Is there anything you want to change about each other?
Narendra: I think we know each other too well. If she turns around now I will know why. (Both laugh)
Since men are generally considered bad listeners, what do you do to make him listen to you? Narendra (before Pushpa can answer): She shouts at me!
Narendra: While I don’t believe that changing each other would help us subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 49
special feature
Kedar Sharma
Haushala Thapa
Salil Subedi 'Kanika'
Ani Choying Dolma
Prabhas Pokharel Mark Zimmerman
Sunil Babu Pant
NayanTara Gurung Kakshapati
Anil Chitrakar
IDEAS that are WORTH SPREADING First TEDx event held in Kathmandu! On 30 July, a full audience looked forward to get inspired, by nine speakers from different backgrounds on topics of Innovation, Change and Sustainability at TEDxKathmandu, an independently organised TED event, the first of its kind in Kathmandu. The event was a combination of screening of the TED Talk videos, live presentations and a presentation-cumperformance by contemporary performance artist, Salil Subedi. It was a programme that challenged the group of curious minds to engage in ideas and to network. The audience varied in age and profession but
SPEAKERS Kedar Sharma A writer, editor, journalist and a documentary filmmaker, he started and hosted the well known TV show Aakhi Jhyal in the early 90s and designed dramas for the BBC World Service Trust Nepal. He recently did a radio programme on creative writing for children. Sunil Babu Pant Regarded as Nepal’s Harvey B Milk, Sunil Babu Pant is the first openly gay member of Nepal’s Parliament. He is the founder of Blue Diamond Society (BDS), now a network of several organisations working on HIV/AIDS, human rights and social justice with sexual gender minorities – Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersexual (LGBTIs) – in Nepal. Prabhas Pokharel He works on the intersections of technology, youth participation, and social development. He has worked with UNICEF, MobileActive.org, Nepal government’s High Level Commission for Information Technology (HLCIT), and the Peruvian Ministry of Education on projects spanning these topics. He helped establish 52 | VOW | september 2011
were bound with the common thirst – to learn and, to grow. Each speaker presented their idea-stimulating discussions. One of the speakers, Mark Zimmerman, for example, shared the story of how as a young American he had chosen to stay in Nepal and extend medical help, while another speaker Ani Choying talked about how she ended up becoming a nun and why it is so important to nurture positivity. Anil Chitrakar elaborated on why it is important for all Nepalis to unite now while the slideshows of a collection of old photographs contributed by many Nepali individuals in the presentation of Nayantara Gurung Kakshapati explored the history of
Nepal and the evolving lifestyles of Nepalis.
UNICEF Innovations Lab Kosovo, a dynamic environment to cultivate social change for the benefit of Kosovo’s youth and children, whose model for youth participation through technology is now being adapted in other countries. He helps lead ‘Nepal ko Yuwa’.
NayanTara Gurung Kakshapati After a degree in International Relations and Studio Art from Mt Holyoke, she later went on to study Documentary Photography in SALT Institute of Documentary Studies. She lives her passion as a freelance photographer and a multimedia producer now. She cofound photo.circle in 2007.
Salil Subedi ‘Kanika’ His extensive travelling performances bridge new technology and archaic knowledge of nature and art. As a contemporary performance artist he interweaves artistic and social expression through sound, colours and act. Mark Zimmerman He first visited Nepal typically on a short trip not knowing he would ever return and for long. He has spent 25 years of his medical career working at Patan Hospital, Amp Pipal Hospital, and presently serves as the executive director of the Nick Simons Institute. Haushala Thapa She heads an organisation called Children & Youth First, along with like-minded people who work towards educating young children who need shelter and rehabilitation.
The TEDxKathmandu event was coordinated independently and organised by two young friends Nimesh Ghimire and Shirish Pokharel, with support from VOW. TED (short for Technology, Entertainment, Design) is a US private non-profit foundation that is best known for its conferences held in six continents, devoted to what is called “ideas worth spreading”. The lectures or TED Talks are widely popular in the internet as being persuasive, ingenious and inspiring. The TED Talks are distributed from www.ted.com.
Ani Choying Dolma Ani Choying is a Buddhist nun known in Nepal and beyond borders for bringing many Tibetan Buddhist chants and feast songs to mainstream audiences while promoting spirituality. Anil Chitrakar Environmental Camps for Conservation Awareness (ECCA) earned him the Ashoka fellowship, and the Rolex Award. In 1993, he was one of the awardees for ‘100 Global Leaders for Tomorrow’ at the World Economic Forum in Davos. He is actively campaigning for public participation on national issues on facebook under the group ‘Nepal Unites’. Text» Samridhi Rana Photos» Nibendra Pradhananga
subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 53
woman to watch any a little girl has dreamt of walking in the clouds, dressed in smart uniforms and shiny shoes, daintily and deftly rolling a suitcase behind her. When on ground, only few line their airy dreams often opting for other career choices. One of the very few is Saliha Banu, who has been working as a member of Air Arabia for the past three years. With an ability to smile easily and a laughter that's almost infectious, her sunny and positive attitude convinces me that she has chosen the right profession for herself. "You know, I feel like the last three years have just flown by," this 24-year-old dreamer chirps. And like most of us who cherish the memories of our first jobs, she regards her time at Yeti Airlines as her best dream-come-true years, "I was just out of high school, and happiness knew no bounds when I was selected as one of the 10 candidates out of 400 applicants at Yeti Airlines. Within a year of realising my dreams with Yeti, I was promoted as a senior cabin crew
Neelima's Fashion Studio Shop No. T2, 3rd floor City Centre, Kamalpokhari Tel: 4011622, 4011529
54 | VOW | september 2011
Elegant
Shop No. T28, 3rd floor City Centre, Kamalpokhari Tel: 4011522
Saliha Banu, cabin crew, Air Arabia
In her own words… there," she shares. Soon after, she joined Fly Yeti International, "I rue the fact that the company lasted only for a year, but I fondly remember it for the experience of working on an Airbus320 aircraft," she exclaims. Saliha believes that with dedication, passion, zeal and confidence, it doesn't take time to turn the word 'impossible' into I M POSSIBLE. She has been flying with Air Arabia since 2008, and is focused on achieving the position of a senior cabin crew member. She says she keeps herself alert to any opportunity that may come her way and is open to exploring her potential in the aviation field. In the near future, she aspires to become a cabin crew instructor.
A woman is… a creator and a nurturer, and adapts herself very well to each and every role she has to play in life. On the ground… I love sleeping, enjoy tickling my taste buds and am up for anything fun. Guilty pleasure: Shopping A place that never grows old:
The best thing about my job:
A cabin crew plays a variety of roles. We have to be nurse, child entertainer, interpreter, travel guide, counsellor, host, information clerk, technician and most of all... a friend!
The worst thing about my job:
The dynamics of this profession is narrowed down and stigmatised with beauty and glamour only.
Two people I would like to meet on the job: Johnny Depp and
Kashmir because its mystical beauty is eternal.
Siddharth Mallya because they are very sensational.
Favourite place to visit when I am home… Bhojan Griha
Three kinds of people that are a pain during the flight: Aggressive,
abusive and drunks.
Text» Pramila Rai Photos» Rajiv Shrestha subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 55
my beautiful life
Makeup
I am addicted to…
Skincare
I like to keep it simple. For my everyday look, I rim my eyes with kohl from M.A.C and give my lashes a lift with L'Oreal's Mascara, and colour my lips with either M.A.C, Chanel or Christian Dior. For studio makeup, I use cosmetics from either M.A.C or Chanel. I love nail colours from M.A.C and Isadora.
my iPad 2. It's always with me.
I have combination skin, so I use Vitamin E Gentle Facial Wash from Body Shop. At night, I cleanse by face with Vitamin E Cream Cleanser from Body Shop. For the past 17 years, I have been using Fair & Lovely regularly for the day along with Chanel's UV Essentiel SPF 50 Sunscreen.
Neelima Sharma, at 33, says she has the ability of moulding herself to whatever a situation demands of her. Stylish, her love for life and appreciation for the people in her life is an easy reflection of her persona. Mother of two sons – Ayam, 12 and Addhyaya, 9, this glam mom confesses that the only secret to her blissful life is her ability to take life as it comes. "Move on, never regret. Stay true to yourself and never do things you will be ashamed of."
Neelima Sharma,
Latest splurge… Zara colour block heels
Ideal vacation:
Switzerland, because I can totally relax there and feel so close to nature.
proprietor and stylist, Neelima's Fashion Studio
For nails, skin and hair treatment…I go to Ultima Nails and to Habib's for my hair. I pamper my skin on my own at home.
Style mantra… I go for dresses that
I believe I can carry off confidently, even if I have to compromise on comfort. Also, being stylish doesn't necessarily mean looking beautiful. For instance, your attitude matters more than your elegance when you are considering a hip-hop dress.
The most beautiful moments of my life… when I welcomed my children into this world. Giving birth is the ultimate bliss… totally unexplainable.
The most stylish movie I've watched is… Devil
Style ico
When I want to feel sexy… I dab White Musk Perfume Oil from The Body Shop.
wears Prada – I love both the movie and the book.
ns...
Late P rinc and m ess Diana, os and S t Ranas h have i ahs who n panac herited tha he and t attit so gra cefully ude .
Current Cellphone... iPhone 3Gs
My life is beautiful because... I accept
things as they come. I celebrate every little virtue of mine even as I make note of my weaknesses and work on them to better myself.
Current perfume...
Daisy and Lola from Marc Jacobs
Shopping destination...
New York, Paris and Thailand for western and casual wear, Delhi for ethnic wear, and Dhukuti and Sana Hastakala for local hand-loomed fabric. 56 | VOW | september 2011
Text» Poonam Maharjan Photos» Shankar Bir Byanjankar
subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 57
reflections
A place called
Home
look around my bedroom. A large piece of driftwood sits on a window ledge. On another, shells and rocks form the base of an altar that upholds a bronze-cast Goddess. Looking more closely I notice that there are little altars all around the room. All around my flat actually. Each one is made of pieces from places I call “home”. They are reminders of where I come from, where I have travelled, what I have lived; gifts from kindred souls I have met along my journey; symbols of protection, love and guidance. All the things that have brought me to where I am now.
Lisa Gautschi (Yogatara)
Contact her at Isha Institute, Jawalakhel yogatara108@yahoo.com
58 | VOW | september 2011
Home. As I look around my modest flat I notice how most of the rooms are in some stage of disarray. Let me correct that: they are in the state of being “re-modelled”. Nothing is exactly set in place. There are tubs of paint lying around the kitchen, paint rollers and brushes in the bathroom, stacks of books waiting for a shelf to carry them, bits and bobs of this and that waiting... to find their new place. Looking around, I realise that my home is a reflection of my life at present – everything being undone and being put back into a new configuration. New colours and designs try to harmonise themselves with the remnants of the old. For someone who thrives on aesthetics and gets a high out of stacking the silverware just right, remaining a calm witness to this state of “not-quite-togetherness” without panicking is a veritable practice in patience. These days I’m learning to not sweat the small stuff – the dust collecting in the corners of the windows, the clothes that are not ironed, the pile of books gaining height under my bed. Home. I look at myself in the mirror and notice the wrinkles around my eyes and mouth. Grey strands of hair are fighting their way in amongst the blond ones. I feel the softness of my skin. My hands are beginning to look like my mother’s and my grandmother’s. I feel into the rest of my body and sense its steadiness. This steadiness is not laziness, nor heaviness, nor fatigue. The steadiness of my body is simply the feeling of being grounded. I look at all the parts of my body that I used to hate. There are many. And yet now, when I look I smile. It has taken me years to begin to smile with my body. And what a joy it is.
I’m not sweating the small stuff, I remind myself. The wrinkles, the grey hairs, the softening muscle tone. The hardness and taught-ness of younger years is giving way to the flow and smoothness of a growing maturity. These wrinkles are testament to a life lived. This skin is soft from having touched and been touched; from holding another and from being held; from being caressed by the wind, the sun and the rain. My body doesn’t lie or pretend. Our bodies never do. They can’t. They won’t. So why do we try to force them to be something they are not? Why are we constantly in battle with the only true home we have, the one that accompanies us through every step of life? It strikes me, when I speak with womenfolk, how we almost always have a negative comment to make about our bodies. It’s a favourite pass-time of ours. The criticism is relentless: our butts are too big or too small, our thighs too full, our boobs too tiny or heavy, we’ve gained weight or are too thin. The list is endless. In comparison, I rarely hear men criticise their own physical appearance. Perhaps it’s that I am not privy to those details. But even so, have you ever noticed how even with a bulging belly, a large toosh and ear hair long enough to help them navigate through a hurricane, men still strut around in their little Speedos like they are the hottest thing on the block? Forget Botox. What women need is a shot of testosterone! Perhaps that’s all it takes to feel good about one’s self; so certain of one’s worth, no matter what one’s physical appearance. Jokes aside, there is something for us womenfolk to better understand and begin to practice. That our bodies, our physical bodies, are our homes; the only true homes we will ever have. And they are our temples. Just as we tend to our living space, just as we might create altars in them, so must we nurture, honour and celebrate the physical body, the vehicle of our spirit. As the late writer John O’Donohue reminds us: l The body is a sacrament. (A sacrament is a visible sign of invisible grace.) l The body is the mirror where the secret world of the soul comes to expression. l The body is a sacred threshold: and it deserves to be respected, minded and understood in its spiritual nature. Beautify, exercise, stretch and pamper the body all you want. But let this not be out of fear of ageing or not being perfect enough. Rather let this be out of deep love, respect and praise for that place called Home.
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living
TURNING TO
FENG SHUI
Our homes are one of the biggest investments we make in our lives. Not only do we invest our money in building it, we also never stop investing our time, energy and love in turning it from a house into a home. Since you are already so involved in this process, read on to learn how applying Feng Shui can help you reap positive results.
The most important thing to consider is to know for certain what you want. When there is clarity in your thoughts and actions, the positive results you are seeking will ultimately follow.
• Enough air and bright lights: Ensure that your house is airy and has enough natural light. These are important for transmitting good Feng Shui energy in your home.
What is Feng Shui?
• Learn about the five Feng Shui elements: Each of the five Feng Shui elements – water, wood, metal, earth and fire, are attributed to bring in their own specific good luck.
It is the ancient Chinese art of channelling the flow of energies (called Chi or Qi) of any space in a positive way. The proper balancing of the energies brings in good fortune and health to those residing in the area. In English, Feng translates to wind and Shui to water. For the Chinese, wind and water are associated with good health. • De - clutter your house: Start by throwing away anything that has no practical use or emotional value.
• Understand the Feng Shui Bagua: To incorporate Feng Shui in our homes, it is mandatory that we learn about the Feng Shui Bagua. Translated from Chinese, it means “eight areas” (ba = eight, gua = area). It can also be called the energy map of our houses since it relates the various areas of our lives with the eight parts of our living areas.
Bagua= eight areas
• South
Starting with Feng Shui
• North
Element: Water Colours: Blue and black Life area: Career and path in life
• Northeast
Element: Earth Colours: Beige, light yellow, and earthy tones Life area: Spiritual growth
• East
Element: Wood Colours: Brown and green Life area: Health and family
• Southeast
Element: Wood Colours: Brown and green Life area: Money and abundance
Feng Shui Colours Purple, green, gold, red: Wealth and prosperity Red: Fame Pink, red, white: Relationship and marriage Green: Family 60 | VOW | september 2011
Element: Fire Colours: Red, orange, purple, pink and bright yellow Life area: Fame and reputation
• Southwest
Element: Earth Colours: Beige, light yellow, and earthy tones Life area: Love and marriage
• West
Element: Metal Colours: White and grey Life area: Creativity and children
• Northwest
Element: Metal Colours: White and grey Life area: Helpful people, blessings and travel
Yellow, earth tones: Health White: Children and creativity Blue, black, green: Skills, knowledge and wisdom Black: Career and life path Grey, black, white: Travel and helpful people
Some popular Feng shui symbols The mistake people often make is trying to infuse the traditional Chinese Feng Shui symbols in their homes instead of looking for ones that are actually suitable for them. We do not have many things in common with the Chinese culture so what seems apt for them may not make much sense to us. Choose your symbols with care because when you opt to bring a particular symbol to your home, you are letting its special energy work its magic. Symbols are very important and they work simply because of the belief we place in them. So ensure that the symbols you choose have some personal significance in your life. • The Money or Fortune Frog: A symbol of prosperity and luck, the frog or the three legged toad holds a coin in its mouth and should be placed somewhere facing the main entrance of your home. • The horse: Symbolising success, courage, fame and loyalty, the horse partnered with another horse acts to strengthen a marriage or a business relationship. Keep them facing a door or a window for maximum positive result. • The Lucky Money Cat: The money cat is said to usher in money, opportunities and prosperity with its beckoning paw. Since cats are able to see in the dark, yours will frighten away “bad spirits” that might be hampering your success. Place it on your work desk or next to a cash register to get it working. • The Fish (Carp): Wealth, strength and prosperity are what the fish will bring us. The carp fish is said to represent strength, bravery and the ability to fight against hardship. In Feng Shui, we can replace the carp with the goldfish. So for ensuring prosperity during hard times you can place three goldfish in a bowl. Statues or pictures of the fish can also bring good fortune. • The Mystic Knot: One of the most used symbols, the mystic knot carries the power of the infinity symbol. It is also a symbol of the eight-fold paths of Buddhism. Also known as the endless knot, it is said to symbolise undying love and to secure a long and happy life full of good fortune. You can carry it around with you or hang it anywhere.
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nutrition and diet
Drain: When you cook ground meat, drain the fat from the pat and rinse the meat with hot water and blot the meat with a paper towel to remove any excess fat and water. Limit or skip breading meats: because it will save calories and soak up less fat when frying. Look for lean cuts of meat and poultry: The leanest poultry is white meat from the skinless breast. For lamb or pork, choose more of tenderloin, loin chops and legs.
Let’s have some
meaty talk… There was a time when meat and/or poultry were enjoyed as a weekly ritual in most household. Most Saturdays, people waited in line at the butchers’ shop to get their share of freshly cut meat, while in the kitchen, whistles of pressure cooker and aroma of several spices made Saturday lunch very memorable. In the past few years, however, it seems like the “special” Saturday lunch has slowly lost its charm, as meat and/or poultry has found its way to our dinner table on a regular basis. Meat is a general term used to define animal flesh such as goat, chicken, boar, water buffalo, etc, while poultry refers to birds raised for their eggs, meat or feathers. Chicken, duck, and turkey are some popular poultry. Meat and poultry are good sources of protein and many other micronutrients including iron, zinc and B vitamins. Although protein requirement varies depending on age, sex and disease state, healthy individuals should aim on getting 15-20 percent of calories from protein. Protein helps repair cells and body tissues, regulates many enzymes and hormones and supports our immune system. Meat and poultry are often blamed for high cholesterol and fat content because they are high in saturated or bad fats. These fats put individuals at an increased risk of high cholesterol and heart diseases. Now many researches are showing that it is not just the total fat but the type of fat that is more important for overall health risks. Therefore, we should focus on getting more of unsaturated or good fats—some of the sources of which are nuts, oils and fish. 62 | VOW | september 2011
Making meat and poultry part of a healthy diet Watch portion size: Standard serving size of meat and poultry is 85 grams, that’s about the size of a deck of cards. It is okay to eat meat and/or poultry at all meals but always be mindful of your portion size as it adds up calories and fats really quick. Trim off the fats: At the butchers’ shop or at home, request all the visible fats and skin to be trimmed and DO NOT feel bad because you just decreased your chance of getting a heart disease. Maximise flavour: Marinating meat will add moisture, enhance flavour and increase tenderness. Make your own marinade using lemon juice, soy sauce, wine and different herbs and spices. Cook low: Cooking meat using low fat cooking methods such as sautéing, grilling, broiling and baking will melt away fat from meat and poultry. If using oven, make sure to put it on a rack on a baking pan to allow the fat to drip.
Recipe of the Month Looking for a quick and healthy lunch on the go for you and your family? p Wra n e k Serves: Four hic Try C
Ingredients • 1 cup low fat plain yogurt • ½ teaspoon garlic, minced • ¼ cup onion, finely chopped • ½ cup fresh herb (cilantro or mint), roughly chopped • 3 cups fully-cooked skinless chicken breast, finely diced • 4 pre-washed lettuce slices • Salt and pepper to taste • 4 plain whole wheat tortilla (roti) Directions In a medium mixing bowl, combine yogurt, garlic, onion, and herbs and stir until blended. Add salt and pepper to taste. Add chicken breast and stir until well coated. Place lettuce slices and ¼ of the chicken mixture on a tortilla (roti), preferably whole wheat and wrap it tightly. Note: To avoid morning rush, prepare chicken mixture night before and store in an air tight container until you are ready to make the wrap. Do not refrigerate for more than 24 hours.
Nutrition analysis: Per wrap 255 calories, 4 grams fat and 3 grams fibre
Dixya Bhattarai is a nutritionist affiliated with American Dietetic Association and Illinois Dietetic Association.
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health feature
Losing Hair?
Act Now.
Let’s meet Nina – she has tried every shampoo, conditioner, de-tangler and hairpack in the market, but her woes about her hair continue. Her hair just do not seem to agree with anything she does, and remain damaged, continue to fall at a rapid rate and her plaits get thinner and thinner. What is she missing? Like most others, she probably has not really understood what the hair problems are all about and not treated them accordingly. There are more than 20 types of hair loss conditions which need different type of treatment each time. Allow me to address the most common issue today – patterned hair loss.
Why do we go bald?
The cause of concern arises when the hairs that are lost are not replaced back and we start to see bald or empty areas on the scalp, and the hair density slowly decreases. ‘Patterned Baldness’ or Androgenetic Alopecia (AGA) can affect males as well as females. As the name suggests, the balding follows a certain pattern, which can be seen in pictures below.
Why do we lose hair?
We all lose hair, and it’s as normal as breathing. On an average we lose about 50-120 hair per day. But if we all lose hair, why are not all bald? That’s because through the normal hair cycle, we regain hair back in the same amount as we lose them. A hair cycle looks something like this.
So, even if you lose hair during the telogen phase, the next baby hair is ready to replace the old hair in the new anagen or growth phase. Hair continues to grow throughout the anagen phase, stabilises during catagen phase and begins to regress during telogen or falling phase. 64 | VOW | september 2011
Ludwig Scale
This condition has various causes in which genetic predisposition and hormone Dihydrotestesterone (DHT) blocks the androgen receptors in the scalp, which • Reduces the growth phase of the hair cycle • Progressively ‘shrinks’ the follicles to produce very fine hair (villous type- as found on the rest of the body) Early diagnosis of a patterned hair loss can be seen through a receding front hair line. On close observation typical changes can be seen in the hair covering the front, top and vertex areas of scalp, with a relatively lesser density in these areas.
Factors that can contribute in the initiation and rapid advancement of hair loss in general are: • Stress • Nutritional deficiency • Drugs • Hormonal changes (thyroid problems, pregnancy, menopause, etc) • Chemical treatment of hair (perming, straightening, colouring etc) • Scalp disease (fungal infection, lichen planus, psoriasis, etc) • Serious internal diseases (high fever, typhoid, etc) Each of the above reasons can lead to hair loss in itself, as well as accentuate the effect of AGA. The degree to which you can be helped depends on: • Age • Duration of hair loss • Average amount of hair lost per day • Pattern and grade of hair loss • Family history of similar hair loss • Associated conditions and contributing factors listed above • General health condition It is important to note that hair loss in cases of Androgenetic Alopecia is permanent and cannot be reversed. However, early intervention can arrest the further progression of the condition and can improve density to some extent. Constitutional and specific treatment with homoeopathic remedies help in the management of hair loss without the sideeffects as seen in other topical drugs. Also, homoeopathy helps in addressing other causes of hair loss and associated medical conditions, stress and effects of chronic diseases and drugs to help in overall holistic management of hair loss. Besides, good hair care with proper nutrition, gentle washing, nourishing, and avoiding further damage is very important. Understanding and managing mental stress can help a long way in improving internal health. While being treated constitutionally, it is important to allow a follow-up period of at least one to three years followed by committing to a regular maintenance programme so that the course of treatment can be effectively moderated. Surgery (follicular replacement) remains an option for areas that can never be recovered and have undergone complete regression/shrinkage. PLEASE NOTE: Circular smooth or irregular rough bald patches on the scalp or body relate to another condition called Alopecia Areata or Cicatricial Alopecia and need separate consideration. Dr Ruchi Saxena Dhakal, MD (Hom), MBA (HCS), is a consultant homeopath at Karuna Healthcare, Maharajgunj. Contact her at 4017511 or email her at drruchi@ holisticswasthya.com
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exerfile
Stiff shoulders? Here’s how you can relax them
After a hard day at work, sitting in your cubicle and spending most of your hours on the computer, all you want to do is sit back and relax, and perhaps have someone massage those stiff shoulders. Or, you could follow these exercises and relax your stiff shoulders in a matter of a few minutes!
STEP
1
STEP
Stand straight with your legs apart at shoulders’ width. Lift your elbows straight and extend them to the front at shoulder line. Next, bend your elbows outwards while exhaling. Straighten them back while inhaling.
© VOW photofile/Nibendra Pradhananga
Repeat eight times
Stand straight with your legs apart at shoulders’ width. Keep your elbows straight and cross your fingers behind your back. Bend your torso forward while exhaling, raising your arms towards to the ceiling. Hold the position for 2040 seconds while breathing normally, then come back to the first position. Repeat four times
2
STEP
STEP
Sit on the floor with your ankles crossed and your thighs slightly raised. Extend your elbows forward and interlace your fingers. Ensure that your back is straight. Then slightly bend your back while exhaling and look down towards your navel. Hold the position for 20-40 seconds while breathing normally, then come back to the first position. Repeat four times
Sit on the floor keeping your back straight, legs crossed and thighs slightly raised above the floor. Next, lift your left elbow and bend it behind your head, your right hand pushing your left elbow. Hold the position for 20-40 seconds while breathing normally, then change hands. Required: Two sets on each side (one set = eight repetitions)
3
66 | VOW | september 2011
4
Q&A WELL–BEING STEP Sit on the floor with your back straight, legs crossed and thighs slightly raised above the floor. Extend your left arm towards your right side and pull at the elbow with your right wrist, as shown in the picture. Now push the left hand further backwards with your right wrist, and hold the position for 20-40 seconds while breathing normally, then change hands. Required: Two sets on each side (one set = eight repetitions)
5
STEP
Sit on the floor with your back straight, legs crossed and thighs slightly raised above the floor. Hold the left side of your head with your right hand. Next, bend your head towards the right, your right hand still holding it, then move your left shoulder up and down four times. Now rotate your left shoulder clockwise and anti-clockwise four times each. Come back to the first position and change sides. Required: Two sets on each side (one set = eight repetitions)
6
I have been training on and off for the past one year. I was recently told about the target heart rate. I asked my trainer but was not completely satisfied. Could you please explain to me what target heart rate is and how important it is to bring a good result in training? – Rashmi, Boudha Hi Rashmi you should regularly check your heart rate to ensure you are exercising safely and effectively. Your heart rate, which is often referred to as your pulse, indicates how many times your heart beats per minute. Exercise intensity during training is a very important factor to determine your progress. Target heart rate refers to a range in which your heart rate should fall to ensure that you’re working at the proper intensity. You should always try to train within this range to receive the full benefit of your workouts. A heart rate that falls below the range would indicate that you aren’t pushing hard enough, while one that exceeds the upper limits of the range is a signal you may be overdoing it. Although it’s only a general approximation, it can definitely help you get a handle on your overall exercise intensity. To figure out your target heart rate, simply subtract your age from 220 and then multiply that number by .60 and .85 respectively. The numbers you get then represents the top and bottom ends of your target heart rate. In order to check if your heart rate falls within the range, simply place your two fingers on the thumb side of your wrist (don’t use the thumb), just below the palm of your hand, and feel for your pulse. Once you’ve found it, count the number of beats you get in 10 seconds and multiply by 6. This will give you your heart rate in beats per minute. You then simply compare to see whether or not this number falls within the range and alter your workout intensity accordingly. Thank you
STEP
First kneel down on the floor with your knees apart at slightly more than your shoulder’s width and bend forward, placing your palms on the floor to support your body. Then twist your body to the right, lowering your right shoulder to the floor while stretching out your right arm straight across your chest on the floor. Extend your left elbow straight up towards the ceiling. Hold the position for 20-40 seconds while breathing normally, then come back to the first position and change sides. Required: Two sets on each side (one set = eight repetitions)
7
Hisako Utsugi is an America Fitness Aerobics Association (AFAA) and Japan Aerobics Fitness Association (JAFA) certified aerobics instructor, as well as a certified yoga instructor. She is also an exclusive instructor at Lalit Mandap Hardik Club.
Sandesh Palungwa Limbu
a certified professional fitness instructor, founder of RAGE Fitness, also specialises in mixed martial arts. He will answer all your fitness queries. Send your queries to him at ragefitness@live.com
subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 67
health bulletin
Q&A MENTAL HEALTH
Q&A TEETH
My daughter is 27 years old and has a six-month-old baby girl. For the past five months she has been feeling very tired and depressed. Therefore at present I am staying at her house to help her take care of my granddaughter. I have suggested that she keep herself busy so that bad thoughts don’t occupy her mind. However she still ends up crying and feeling miserable. Her frequent mood swings is beginning to exasperate her husband. We have tried talking to her but she clearly cannot explain herself.
My sister is 25 years old. She has always been conscious of her slightly crooked teeth and is interested in wearing braces. However, with many accounts from people around that braces are very painful and uncomfortable, she has become nervous. I think braces would be good for her. Can you please tell us, if at her age, braces are really that painful and how long it takes before the braces start showing results?
– Neeta Parajuli, Tinkune In all likelihood she is suffering from “Post-partum Depression”, which is a variant of Major Depression and fully curable if tackled in time, and there is no alternative to the use of antidepressant medication. And it would be beneficial to be hospitalised for a few days for rest, relaxation and to ensure compliance to medication. Pregnancy and delivery is associated with hormonal surges and emotional upheavals which are postulated to unmask the underlying vulnerabilities to mood disorders. More than 50 percent of pregnant women suffer from “Baby Blues”, in which one has a complex mixture rapidly changing emotions like dysphoria, anxiety, sadness, confusion, and an unexplainable uncertainty of future with a new member in her life. Baby blues remit by itself in a few days to a week.
– Binita Maskey, Maharajgunj Braces are the application of light forces to teeth over time to get a certain symmetry that is aligned and pleasing to the eyes. It is also the alignment of teeth so that our bite is better and stable in the long run. There is some pain associated with braces but it is generally mild and one gets used to it after some time. Getting your teeth straightened not only gives you confidence, but also helps a great deal in keeping your mouth health in great condition, helping a great deal in your general health. The discomfort felt for the treatment period is nothing compared to the overall result. Age is not a barrier for braces, even though, at younger age, the treatment period is shorter and bone growth can be manipulated to our advantage. Depending on the severity of the case, after a complete evaluation, sets of x-rays and their study and calculations, the dentist is able to somewhat predict how long the treatment is going to take.
About 15 percent of women suffer from post partum depression and the symptoms can be as severe as self-neglect and neglect of the child and refusal to feed the baby. Many a times, one harbours negative cognition that “she has performed a sin by giving birth to a baby in this painful world” and becomes extremely guilt-ridden and may even commit infanticide to acquit the baby from agonies of human existence. Post-partum psychosis is the severest of psychiatric disorders occurring after delivery and occurs in about one to two ladies out of every 500 deliveries. It is the ultimate unwanted complication of neglected and overseen psychological problems after delivery. The lady becomes insane with total loss of touch with reality and is unable to take care of herself and emits grossly abnormal behaviour. She loses the ability to manage weird thoughts and perceptions coming into her mind. Treatment at this stage is very difficult.
Dr Sharad Man Tamrakar,
health bulletin
Neuro-Psychiatrist at Norvic International Hospital, will answer all your mental health queries. Send your queries to him at editorial@vow.com.np Contact him at 4258554/9851007474.
68 | VOW | september 2011
Dr Neil Pande,
Dental Surgeon at Healthy Smiles, will answer all your teeth queries. Send your queries to him at neil@smilenepal.com
Public places are now “No-Smoking Zone” in Nepal
After 26 years of advocacy against smoking in public places by Nepal Cancer Relief Society and various other government and nongovernment organisations, Nepal Government has put into practice that in legal terms starting 7 August. The public places where the ban come into effect include state and government bodies, offices and institutes, educational institutes, airport, airlines, public vehicles, child welfare centres, child rehabilitation centre and club, public toilet, industry and factories. Anyone smoking at the fore-mentioned places will be expelled from the place or fined Rs 100 or both. If such an individual happens to be a government official, s/he will face departmental action. Similarly, those producing and selling tobacco and tobacco-related products must abide by the rule of printing the negative effects of tobacco extensively (75 percent) on the tobacco and cigarette packets, so that consumers are aware of the disadvantages of smoking. Consumption of tobacco-related products claims a life every 30 minutes in Nepal.
Q&A HEART Dear Doctor, I am a fitness freak and I would like to know what the signs of an unhealthy heart are. I am curious because I knew many people who were completely fit but succumbed to death on their first heart attack. – Sammy, Imadol
It’s a nice question for which the complete answer is not available at present. Yes, most heart attacks may occur without a prior notice and about half of the patients may not have overtly bad lifestyle! Thus the prediction of heart attacks is largely not easy. Yet, what we know is that any chest discomfort that is brought on by physical efforts and gets better by taking rest is an important cardiac symptom. Similarly, any unusual decrease in stamina, early shortness of breath, or palpitation can be signs of heart ailment. In general, people above 40, smokers, diabetics and those with high cholesterol or high blood pressure are more likely to develop heart diseases. Similarly, family members of cardiac patients need to be more watchful. Yes, the very first attack can be fatal and hence the need to be careful about our lifestyle. Remember this Mutu Mantra: Ask yourself, have you MADE your day today? Mental relaxation Avoid tobacco in any form Diet control Exercise These four simple things can help avoid the risk of heart attacks substantially.
Dr Bharat Rawat,
Executive Director and Consultant Cardiologist at the Norvic International Hospital, will answer all your heart queries. Send your queries to him at drrawat@norvic.wlink.com.np
Cow’s milk ‘too salty’ for babies
Q&A HOMOEOPATHY Dear Dr Ruchi, is there any way I can get rid of body odour? – Shelly
Body odour is caused when various bacteria attack the sweat present on skin. Bacteria usually get attracted to ‘sticky’ skin and decompose causing the foul odour. Areas of underarms and genitals produce certain proteins and oils that are favoured by bacteria for their growth. Feet, which are usually covered, produce a strange type of body odour. The reasons that aggravate body odour can be lack of hygiene, obesity, use of synthetic clothing, certain foods, caffeine, strong medications, liver and kidney problems, circulating toxins, alcoholism and zinc deficiency or excess sweating tendency. To deal with offensive body odour, you can try the following things: - Eat food that contains fibre like whole grains, wheat, soya products and green leafy vegetables. Avoid maida items, bakery food, processed and canned foods. - Drink plenty of water. A glass of wheat grass juice (made with 500 mg fresh wheat grass and one-two glasses of water crushed in a blender) first thing in the morning helps in cleansing the system of toxins. - Avoid strong tea or coffee. Prefer herbal tea. - Wear light-coloured, loose cotton clothes especially in warm temperatures. Avoid polyester. - Wash clothes and wiping towel after every use. - Boil some mint leaves in four cups of water. Add this water to your bath water. - Add a teaspoon of alum to your bath water. - Use an antibacterial soap or a neem soap. - Pay special attention to hygiene in the feet and body folds. Wash feet properly and use antifungal powder between the toes and in body folds like armpits, groin, neck, and under breasts after bathing. - Wear open sandals. - Wear a naturally made perfume from flower essential oils to feel fresh and fragrant. If the above tips do not help, contact a doctor for treatment of underlying imbalance and/or clinical conditions. Dr Ruchi Saxena DhakaL, Consultant Homoeopath at Karuna Healthcare, will answer all your homoeopathic queries. Send your queries to her at drruchi@holisticswasthya.com Contact her at 4017511.
It is almost four times as salty as breast milk, say researchers who have found that those who were fed cow’s milk before turning a year old tended to have the highest salt diets. Dr Pauline Emmett and Vicky Cribb, nutritionists from Bristol University, found that seven in 10 babies had too much salt in their diets. The study, published in European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, looked at almost 1,200 eight-montholds born in 1991-1992. Cow’s milk, they noted, contains 55mg of salt per 100ml, almost four times that found in breast milk (15mg/100ml). Concentrations in formula milk vary from 15 to 30mg/100ml. A baby consuming 700ml of cow’s milk daily would be getting 385mg of salt from that source alone – almost half the recommended maximum (one gram)
health bulletin
for a baby up to a year old. One in eight of the children studied were fed only cow’s milk, as opposed to breast or formula.
Extreme morning sickness linked to behavioural disorders in kids
An extreme form of pregnancy-related nausea and vomiting known as hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) takes a heavy toll on thousands of women each year and can lead to hospitalisation and pregnancy termination. But new research suggests pregnant women are not the only victims. A joint study by UCLA and the University of Southern California has found that children whose mothers suffered from HG while carrying them were 3.6 times more likely to suffer from anxiety, bipolar disorder and depression in adulthood than individuals whose mothers did not have the condition. The study was published in the Journal of Developmental Origins of Health and Disease.
subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 69
sex rules
Comfort Sex: AVirtue a Bane I like your articles in the Sex Rules column, especially the one published in the month of May 2011 where there was a dialogue about 7 Khoon Maaf. I would like to ask you a few questions regarding my marital situation. I am in a very confused state right now. I feel rather guilty about making love to my husband. I feel as if I am using him since we are in the process of separation. I know he loves me very much, but I am not so sure about myself. I am very fond of him still but more as a friend. I am a very lonely person right now, so I like making love with him but then afterwards it leaves a sense of shame and guilt within me which is very difficult to handle. How do I cope with this? He knows how I feel about him and I want this situation to get better for both of us.
Dr poonam thapa,
Sexual Health Expert and Life Coach, will answer all your sexual health queries. Send your queries to her at editorial@vow.com.np
Comfort sex often gets a bad rap, but for once, question the motivation for sex rather than the kind of sex itself. For some reason or the other a woman has a terrible argument with her boyfriend or husband almost to the point of contemplating leaving him, it’s just been once too often and they are both fed up! But instead, a few hours later they end up making passionate love and all is forgiven and forgotten. Or is it? Another case in point, a couple who was once sexually intimate partners, drift apart but there is a fondness, even love and so they meet and have sex. There is nothing terribly wrong with either of these two scenarios; it happens… life happens. The first case should be more of an exception than the rule in a stable relationship. As for the second scenario, you are sad, depressed and grieving over the death of marriage and sex becomes the perfect antidote – closeness, warmth, loving and togetherness that is slowly but surely slipping away from your grasp. I understand you are lonely right now, and the tried-and-true, husband has a familiarity and safety when it comes to sex. However, if you are serious about the separation then first put a real physical distance between the two of you and the sex must stop. I think you will feel better if you take some responsibility for your own decision to leave the marriage; it takes two hands to clap after all. It’s not the best thing for your husband to continue with the sexual relationship because
70 | VOW | september 2011
he loves you and he wants to hang on to you. Poor chap he can’t help himself. You know this and yet you toy with his feelings, so of course you feel guilty. You are a human being after all. On the other hand it’s also definitely not good for you because most importantly you don’t want to be misusing a buddy. Pity sex is not cool among friends especially if you want to keep the camaraderie (you share and seem to cherish) in a new future. Having said that I don’t want you to beat yourself over what you have done. Just act in conscience and consciousness from now on. Like comfort food, comfort sex allows you to replay happier times and feel better about each other. It’s a temporary comfort, so don’t make the mistake of overusing it. The yearning to re-connect with someone you still have a great fondness for is not only universal but a life affirming act. Sex can help and heal a broken marriage but only if you will it to help and heal the marital relationship first. Sex however is not a crutch, so both of you must stop using it as one. Routine can often be the biggest killer of sex and the conformity of a marriage is not always as bad as you think. Do reflect on this. How about not seeing each other for some time and then going out on that first date, wooing each other can be a lot of fun… starting over or going your own ways? All valid options of your choosing, and by asking you have taken the first step to your personal self-development.
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animal anecdotes
The death
of a pet... What pet owners should know, and what vets should do. Death is inevitable, but the reason of death should be scientifically proved. If a pet dies, it is not just a forget-about-it matter, it is painful. So it’s reasonable enough when pet owners ask for the reason, and the service provider must have a scientific basis for the reasons they give… not just some vague blah-blahs. When I was new in practice, I used to think medicines are marvelous findings that save lives of scores of living beings. I still have the same old feeling, but in all these years my perspective towards life has changed. When you handle a case, you put your full effort on first diagnosing what’s wrong, so that you can prescribe some medication, which, even if it can’t save a life, it will at least make the patient feel better for some time. This is the way a medical personnel works and I have seen such kind of practices wherever I have visited. Whenever there is a ‘disease’, there is a ‘prognosis’ that is based on the gravity of the case. Treatments rely not only on the different kinds of biological phenomena but also on your attitude to handle these 72 | VOW | september 2011
things. In spite of your effort, death is inevitable. But as a doctor, you must ask yourself – was it totally inevitable?
Now the concern is what a pet owner should know and what should a vet do.
is involved in it. Let’s take an example: Sometime ago I came across a very timeconsuming case. It was really tough to reach a tentative diagnosis because I didn’t have a clear-cut history of the patient, so I had to just ‘find out everything’. It took another couple of days to start the medication. And I had a very hard time saving her life. It needs a I-won’t-give-up attitude, otherwise a vet’s laziness could kill a patient. So it is vitally important that pet owners must be vigilant about this. Unfortunately, in our context most pets die because of the carelessness of the service provider. Therefore, if your pet falls sick, just a prescription for medicine is not enough… the attitude of the service provider plays a crucial role. Always remember that medicine is a science and it is based upon facts. As a pet owner you must take it seriously. If you ignore it for your convenience, the service provider may act in a similar way and this is the biggest loophole.
From the pet owner’s side:
The service provider:
Ours is a different story. Many people believe that if you have diagnostic machines you can do ‘anything’, but this is not always the case. These equipment only support us. But it is your attitude towards a patient that actually changes the scenario. A few months back, when a dog was brought in with severe health condition, an x-ray revealed a foreign body (a rubber ball) in its stomach, after removing which, he was completely fine. But before coming to us, at some other place, he was tested against parvo-virus and complete blood examination. It was obviously a useless effort for that patient. It made that dog a sufferer and we are culprits for this. Unfortunately, in these years, I have seen many such events. Sometimes I even find myself in very challenging situations.
It seems reasonable when they are anxious about their pet’s health. Because nowadays I have seen they are more like family members and in many instances owners rarely bother about reasonable expenses. But, a pet owner must understand that a patient’s death is not always because of malpractice. Very often ‘moral duty’
Naturally, everybody wants an easy job. But unfortunately, throughout the world veterinary science is one the most difficult disciplines, so it puts a pressure on the service provider. In our practice, many vets ignore this truth, but in reality it will not go away because we just want to know about it. Probably, professional obligation is a great thing that keeps the service provider alive.
Q&A PET I am actually not fond of pets but last year this particular dog (I don’t know its breed) kept following me from the bus stop to my house which is approximately 15 minutes of walking distance. Once, I saw him wounded and unable to walk, so I brought him home because I didn’t feel it was right to let him suffer alone. Now he is like my younger brother. I don’t know how old he is and I have no idea what I should feed him. I live alone and I feed him what I eat. I haven’t given him anything special to eat. I shared this story with my colleagues at work and they strongly said that he needs separate food. – Arjun Lama Dear Arjun, it’s really nice of you to be taking good care of him. Regarding food, nowadays there are varieties of readymade foods available in department stores which you can use as per the manufacturer’s recommendation and your convenience. But in my view, you can use both home-made and readymade food. What you should take care of is to follow a strict regular feeding schedule – three to four meals is sufficient for a medium sized dog. You can also use some chew-bones (also readily available in the market) that keep your pet’s teeth and gum healthy. In addition to this, pets also need a little salt and cooking oil in their food, but avoid lots of spices, likely to be in the food we eat, and always provide plenty of clean drinking water to your pet.
Dr Saroj Yadav,
senior veterinarian at Animal Hospital and Research Centre, Koteshwor, will answer all your pet queries. Email your questions to sarojyadav641@hotmail.com
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quiz and polls
Can’t
Take this self-assessment quiz to find out where you stand on the attention-span spectrum. Rate each statement on a scale of 0 to 3, based on the following criteria: 0 = Not at all like me 1 = A little like me 2 = A lot like me 3 = Just like me
1 2 3 4 5
I tend to overlook details. It’s hard for me to listen for long periods of time in meetings. I wander from one task to the next without completing them. I jump from topic to topic in conversation. I tend to fidget or doodle.
74 | VOW | september 2011
6 7 8 9 10
I interrupt others during conversations, even when I try not to. It seems much harder for me compared with others to take care of daily tasks. I pick up and drop hobbies and interests. I have difficulty planning ahead. I’m forgetful.
11 12 13 14 15 16
I frequently misplace personal objects. My home and office are cluttered and messy. I tend to run late. I have difficulty developing routines for me or my family. Meal planning is challenging for me. I often start reading books but rarely finish them.
Scoring 0 to 15: You find yourself lost in thought from time to time, but your concentration level is better than most people’s. Use attention-span strengtheners, such as alternating highstimulation and low-stimulation tasks and visualising what you want to achieve, to further sharpen your focus.
16 to 30: Like most people, you feel a bit frazzled and
drifty on a fairly regular basis. Start by taking a look at where this poses the biggest problem: Do you have trouble at work, or are you disorganised at home? Cut down on known attention zappers in the area that needs the most help: At work, stop reflexively checking e-mails. At home, limit distractions, like TV and the internet. Be more attentive to tasks in both environments by setting a time limit for each job. Creating deadlines can help you stay focused.
31 to 45: You probably feel constantly scattered and as
if you can’t get it together. This is frustrating and may also be a sign of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder if you’ve experienced these symptoms since childhood. (This quiz was developed with Kathleen Nadeau, PhD, director of the Chesapeake ADHD Centre of Maryland, in Annapolis.)
Do you have the email password of your partner? a. Yes 25% b. No 75%
a) 25% b) 75%
QUESTION How often do you take back work for home? a. Regularly b. Occasionally
c. Rarely d. Never
Voice your opinion in our poll and make your choice count. Send your answers to editorial@vow.com.np or simply log on to website www.vownepal.com
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spices U-12 Art Competition held
Sprite Freshology Graduation Party
A m a r J y o t i Fo u n d a t i o n organised an U-12 Art Competition for children on 30 July. Altogether 26 children participated and displayed their talent in the open competition. Shanti Tamang, Mahanta Rai and Sophia Adhikari won the first, second and third prizes respectively.
Unveiling Silver Lining
Little Voice
An exhibition of paintings and sculpture titled Little Voice depicting the tales of global warming awareness was organised by Newa ChĂŠn Art Gallery from 6-15 August. The paintings on display illustrated that there exists a small voice that helps make us aware of things in the world that would otherwise go unnoticed. The exhibition was jointly launched by the former vice chancellor of Tribhuvan University, Dr Kedar Bhakta Mathema and singer Yogeshwor Amatya. The works on display were by Sarita Dongol and Mamoru Hosoi.
Tribute to MF Hussain: Journey of a Maestro
Indian Cultural Centre (ICC) in coordination with Siddhartha Art Gallery put up an exhibition to pay tribute to the eminent late Indian artist, MF Hussain on 12 August. Art curator Sangeeta Thapa and visual artist Sujan Chitrakar gave the opening remarks while director of ICC, Dr Geeti Sen conducted a talk programme, 'A sense of Self Portraits of MF Hussain'. A short documentary on the late artist was also screened. The drawings and serigraphs on display were from the private collection of Kurchi Dasgupta, Pratima Pande, Dr Geeti Sen, Satish Sharma and Sangeeta Thapa. The exhibition continued till 16 August.
Miss Little Newa 2011
Prakriti Maharjan was crowned Miss Little Newa 2011 by Remisha Shakya, Miss Little Newa 2010, at the grand finale of the cultural and talent show organised by Nepalese Fashion Home, at Nepal Academy on 6 August. Nurani Maharjan and Manishi Shrestha were crowned the first and second runners-up respectively. Prakriti bagged a cash prize of Rs 7000 along with other gift hampers.
Jasmine Fitness Club & Spa celebrates
After the completion of its third year, Jasmine Fitness Club & Spa celebrated its Annual Sports Meet on 6 August. There were fun-filled games, other exciting programmes, competitions and give-away prizes. Jasmine Fitness Club has introduced various fitness programmes and has conducted several health and fitness classes by health experts from time to time. 76 | VOW | september 2011
The Sprite Freshology Graduation Party took place on 30 July at Hotel Shahenshah's poolside. The party rockers were entertained with fresh contests like Best Fresh Thinker, Fresh Proposal Contest, Best Message Contest, Best Fresh Jump Contest, and the Best Pool Dance Team. The winners for the Sprite Freshology Contest were awarded iPod at the event.
On 7 August, Dikyi Ukyab's album Silver Lining was launched at Hotel Annapurna. This is the 20-year-old singer's debut album and comprises of eight tracks. There are two English tracks which Dikyi herself wrote and composed while the rest of the songs in Nepali are written by Durga Lal Shrestha and composed by Nhyoo Bajracharya. The launch also saw the first screening of the music video Jaun. Prominent actor Madan Krishna Shrestha was the chief guest while singers Nima Rumba, Yogeshwor Amatya and Sukmit Gurung were also present to grace the launching.
A charitable cause
The volunteers of Dristi Nepal, an organisation working towards the support and treatment for female drug users, held a fundraiser on 7 August at Neon Pub. Planned with the purpose of supporting the children of female drug users, the event was successful in raising enough funds to support the education of two children in Dharan. The volunteers said that the success of the event has inspired Dristi Nepal to plan more events and help as many children as possible in the coming days.
Adrian Pradhan's Saath
When Adrian Pradhan sang live on stage on his 40th birthday at Moksh on 18 August to release his fourth solo album, he was as good as just lip-syncing. If you are a 1974
AD or an Adrian fan, his new album Saath is worth every penny. He released Saath along with his band members from 1974 AD. This record is produced by Red House Music with audio on Limited Edition.
Nepal's first Gem and jewellery expo
August saw the first of its kind expo on gems and jewellery at Hotel Soaltee Crowne Plaza. The exhibition organised by Nepal Gem and Jewellery Association was held from 19 to 21 August.
Gorakh Shamsher bags National Pigeon Flying Tournament!
N e p a l P i g e o n Ke e p e r ' s Association (NPKA) organised a prize distribution ceremony for the winners of 12th National Pigeon Flying Tournament on 6 August. Gorakh Shamsher Rana won the first prize after five of his pigeons completed a total of 26 hours 33 minutes flying. He won himself a trophy and a cash prize of Rs 20,000. Likewise, Sanu Raja Ranjit and Hari Koju Shrestha won the second and third prizes, taking home cash prizes Rs 15,000 and Rs 10,000 respectively. The Best Pigeon Award was also handed over to Gorakh Shamsher Rana for his Nakada Bhaale pigeon which alone completed the flight hours of 9 hours and 38 minutes. Madan Krishna Shrestha was chief guest at the event. According to the joint secretary of NPKA, Dipankar Prasad Pradhan, altogether 21 pigeon keepers from Kathmandu, Lalitpur and Bhaktapur participated in the annual tournament.
Women in art
A talk programme by art historian Dina Bangdel, titled 'Imaging Women in South Asian Art' was held at Durbar Hall in Bal Mandir on 20 July. The talk comprised of South Asian art and artists, focusing mainly on those from Nepal, Pakistan and India. She went through pieces of art by many artists like N Pushpamala, Raja Ravi Varma, MF Hussain, Lain Singh Bangdel and Shazia Sikander. The artists and their works were selectively chosen by her and the talk was informative, not only for her students from the United States who were here in Nepal on a field trip, but also for the rest of the audience.
Celebrating the 65th Independence Day
On the occasion of the 65th Independence Day of India, the Embassy of India and BP Koirala India-Nepal Foundation jointly organised a Kathak dance programme presenting the prominent Kathak exponent, Shovana Narayan – India's most celebrated Kathak guru and maestro and her troupe at the Army Officers' Club on 16 August.
Sharing her musical aura
Singer Tara Thapa performed at r-sala on 28 July at Paleti. In her musical career of 40 years this was her first solo performance.
ICIMOD celebrates International Year of Youth 2010-11
ICIMOD organised the Asia Pacific Youth Forum on Climate Actions and Mountain Issues from 8 to 12 August in Kathmandu. It is part of the International Year of Youth and in preparation of the Rio +20 meeting in 2012. The forum is an event in the series of youth activities designed to help build the next generation of leadership in sustainable mountain development and climate actions in ICIMOD's regional member countries and beyond. This event also builds into the context of the upcoming UNFCCC COP 17 meeting in December 2011 and Rio +20 meeting in 2012.
3rd Oral Health Science Expo 2011
Organised by Kantipur Dental College Teaching Hospital and Research Centre, the 3rd Oral Health Science Expo 2011 commenced on 21 July. This three-day event was inaugurated by chairman of Constituent Assembly, Subash Chandra Nembang. The event was successful in raising awareness about oral hygiene and care. There were stalls where students were explaining dental problems and remedies, while the expo also facilitated free denal check-ups for all visitors.
Nepal's First International Literary Extravaganza
To celebrate literature at its best, Bookworm Trust in collaboration with Ncell organised the first Nepal Literature Festival at Gyan Mandala. This fourday convention of wordplay, wordsmiths and literary conversations was officially inaugurated on 18 August. Ajit Baral, festival director, Sanju Koirala, corporate communications manager of Ncell, Bairagi Kainla, chancellor of Nepal Academy and Indra Bahadur Rai, Indian Nepali writer and literary critic spoke during the inauguration. The festival that ran till 21 August saw enthusiastic participation of literature lovers. subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 77
spices BDS stages a pride march
Blue Diamond Society (BDS) organised the second annual Gai Jatra International Pride Festival on 14 August at Bharatpur, Chitwan. The theme for this year's Gai Jatra was, 'Bringing friends and families together for solidarity, equality, protecting wildlife, and promoting tourism year 2011 in Nepal'. Despite its association with the
Promoting domestic designs
It's Scorpions in October!
After the successful 'Bryan Adams Live in Concert' held earlier this year, JPR Events is all set to bring in popular rock band Scorpions on 14 October. In a press conference organised by JPR Events on 19 August to announce the same, they also disclosed their plans to host a friendly football match on 4 November involving Nepali footballers and internationally acclaimed footballers including Germany's ex-goalkeeper Oliver Kahn, former Manchester United and Dutch custodian Edvin Van Der Sarr and another former Dutch international Patrick Kluivert. The organisers also informed that they have been trying to bring in Brazilian and French football stars Ronaldo and Zinedine Zidane respectively for the friendly football match.
New writer on the block: Richa Bhattarai
Richa Bhattarai, a 24-year-old journalist with The Himalayan Times, saw her dreams come true when her first book, Fifteen and Thr3e Quarters – a collection of short stories was launched on 20 August at Hotel Pension Vasana by Prof Dr Abhi Subedi, and academician, writer and poet Bhuwan Dhungana. Also present at the launching ceremony were Pushpa Raj Acharya, lecturer at Central Department of English (CDE) and Bijay Kumar Rauniyar, associate professor at CDE who gave brief commentaries on Richa's debut book.
Suman wins Big Icon 2011
In the singing talent hunt Big Icon organised by Big FM Pokhara, Suman Gautam won the title after earning more sms votes than his final competitor Sabin Tamang. He won a TVS motorcycle amidst a final event held at Pokhara Sabha Griha on 19 August. Runner-up Sabin won himself an MSI laptop. 630 participants from 37 districts of Nepal had participated in the competition that ran for two months. The awards were presented to the winners by superstar Rajesh Hamal. 78 | VOW | september 2011
Lyrics from the Junkyard
Siddhartha Art Gallery organised a refreshing exhibition of sculptures titled, 'Lyrics from the Junkyard' by Meena Kayastha on 19 August. Meena's work showcased a blend of primitive art-forms and contemporary sculptures. In her art, Meena has brought the junkyard objects to life in earthy tones by giving imaginative shapes and figures. Altogether 25 pieces of breathtaking intricate statuettes are on display. The exhibition will continue till 9 September.
Charity show for children's welfare
On 29 August, Bal Sarathi, an orphanage school providing free education and food to underprivileged and street children, organised a charity show featuring popular Nepali artists like Jeetu Nepal, Kiran KC, Nirmal Sharma aka Gaida, who took the audience on a laughter roller coaster, and thumping perfomances by the much loved singer Nima Rumba and the newest sensation in Nepali Music Industry, Rajina Rimal of the Nai nabhannu la fame amongst others. Himani Shah, chairperson of Himani Trust, was the chief guest of the event. In her speech, Himani talked about the importance of educating children for a brighter future of Nepal.
©VOW photofile/Sanu Raja/Shankar
dead, over the centuries the festival of Gai Jatra has developed a second purpose. It has become an opportunity for citizens to vent their frustrations through political and social satire. Given this history, Gai Jatra is a good occasion for BDS to stage a pride march. BDS also had a special candle lighting memorial in Narayanhiti bazaar for those LGBTIs – Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersexuals – who died, either to violence, terrorist attacks especially in Mumbai and Norway, or to AIDS, in the last 12 months.
House of Alternative Apparel (HAA) established in 2010 with the motive of promoting domestic designs, opened its first retail store in Uttar Dhoka on 20 August. Spread over 500 sq ft, HAA features an extensive lineup of Western clothes for men and women. Despite booming garment business around town, what makes HAA stand out is the fact that they are all made of natural and organic fabrics and designed by Nepali fashion designers. The apparels available in HAA definitely ooze fresh air and are priced reasonably.
Your guide to happening movies, music and books What’s New
movie
What’s Hot
What’s Selling
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallow – Part 2 Director: David Yates Actors: Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson, Ralph Fiennes Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows is the eighth and the final installment of the hit Harry Potter series. The movie was divided into two halves. The first part, while mostly centred on wandering and quiet moments, still managed to work in humour and thrilling set pieces. On the other hand Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2 is an almost non-stop epic battle that still finds time for the character development and deeply moving moments the series became known for. It is the grandest of all of the Harry Potter films in scope, in action, and in heartbreak. Part 2 is a lean and focused final sprint as the trio of Harry (Daniel Radcliffe), Ron (Rupert Grint) and Hermione (Emma Watson) hunts down the final horcruxes, major characters complete their arcs, and we come to the deadly showdown between Harry and Voldemort (Ralph Fiennes). It works in hope, love, loss, death, destruction, thrills, and triumph, and does so more efficiently and powerfully than any other film in the series to date. All in all, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2 is exhilarating, emotionally powerful, uplifting, magical, and a beautiful conclusion to a wonderful series.
music
Doo – Wops & Hooligans Artist: Bruno Marz Album: Genre: Pop, rock, R&B, reggae fusion, soul Turn on your radio. Hear that voice, a feathery tenor with a hint of soulful grit? It belongs to Bruno Mars, the 25-year-old Hawaiian newcomer featured on smash hits like B.o.B’s Nothin’ on You and Travie McCoy’s Billionaire. Doo-Wops & Hooligans proves that Mars is a natural — a lavishly gifted melodist (check the surging Grenade) and an engaging singer. It’s the year’s finest pop debut: 10 near-perfect songs that move from power ballads to bedroom anthems to popreggae and deliver pleasure without pretension. Call it bubblegum that eats like a meal.
Edge
Author: Arun Budhathoki (Daniel Song) This book of poetry has a collection of 55 poems, most of which seem to evoke a feeling of quiet loneliness. The poet writes about the various places he might have been to (from Tinkune to Manchester to Sikkim), and turns them into an entirely different description from what we might remember of these places. His poems have a variety of subjects: he laments about a city in “Encroachment”, delights in the beauty of the sun in “Ode to Sun” and he writes about numerous other feelings and emotions in his other poems. Two of his poems, “Confession” and “An Elegy”, were also published in “Journeys”, an anthology by Sampad, UK and “Happy Birthday To Me”, an anthology by The Asian Writer, UK respectively.
subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 79
The
tune
heart in his
Satya Mohan Joshi culture expert
68 years ago from now, in 1943, Satya Mohan straight out of college started his professional career at the Department of Industrial and Commercial Intelligence during which he was assigned to visit Tanahun and Lamjung in order to prepare a report about the economic conditions of those areas. During his stay, he was enamoured by the folk songs of the people there. He was captivated by the tunes and soon began collecting those songs. When the prestigious Madan Puraskar was launched, Satya Mohan submitted these songs in a collection called Hamro Lok Sanskriti which won the award. This feat boosted his morale and since then he has never looked back and has been devoted in preserving the country’s tangible and intangible cultural history. Eversince Satya Mohan Joshi, through his relentless effort went on to receive two more Madan Puraskars, only person to be honoured thus which makes him the man.
Currently he is involved in reviving Kartik Naach, which previously used to be held for the whole month of Kartik at the Patan Durbar Square. He was also recently honoured with a DLitt by Kathmandu University for his tireless efforts and contribution to the Nepali culture. Acclaimed by many as a living legend of Nepali literature and folk music, we sat down with Satya Mohan Joshi to take a trip down memory lane and relive his experiences as a music enthusiast… Excerpts Could you tell us more about your experiences from your trip to Tanahun and Lamjung?
We were there to find out about the socio economic situation of Nepali villages as part of our assignment. Although I missed home and wanted to go back to my normal life, I was determined to complete my assignment. It wasn’t just a day or two – we had to stay there for a long time. We worked when we had to, but since we didn’t have any source of entertainment in our leisure time, we just sat around and observed the beauty of the villages. You know, everybody was singing! literally… everywhere we went, every direction we turned our heads, we could listen to the locals singing. It was overwhelming… it was as if the lives of the people there was a musical journey.
Did that impress you?
Of course. It was raw and beautiful. Most of the villagers who sang were uneducated and they didn’t sing for fame or money or anything else, they neither had proper lyrics nor had they undergone any vocal training… they sang for themselves, and the lyrics and melody came to them naturally.
What were the songs basically about?
There are lots of philosophies behind every folk song. It is the way of life… real life. They sang love songs – simple but with deep meaning. The songs were heartfelt and inspiring, and filled with sweet melody. They were basically about celebration, love, tragedy and everyday life. For me, those people brought a whole new meaning to the adage, 'Simple living, high thinking.' The unity of the locals was amazing, especially among the women. After a hard day of work in the fields, they would gather around a hut and sing the night away. And what beautiful voices they had! I still hear it ringing in my ears. They had no idea what records and tapes were, they didn’t sing for money or fame, they were born with the voice and the will to sing. The songs were with them since birth. It’s really sad that despite technology getting better each day, we cannot match that level of vibration, energy and feelings in the lyrics and music of today.
How would you differentiate folk music from modern music?
Our folk songs are what I would call our intangible heritage and it is very important to preserve them because there is no telling what part of our rich culture we might lose in this materialistic era. Our traditional folk songs are in fact the foundations of modern songs. And it is not
only in the villages that they are sung or heard; everywhere in Nepal, at least one out of 10 people will be singing or listening to them. It would not be wrong to state that our traditional folk songs are inseparable parts of our rich culture. We should never forget this. It’s good to explore what’s new and happening, but we shouldn’t forget our roots either. I guess most of our music today, no matter how modern they claim to be, are somewhat derived from the folk music culture. Folk songs are in our blood… they always were and will always be. The songs symbolise regional unity, and national integrity at large. For the older generations and the villagers like I met on my trip, it is not just a song, they have their own philosophy, and they have their own way of life. It took me a long time to realise that the song meant a lot to them; it’s a part of their religion, culture, heritage and way of life.
What kind of music do you like to listen to?
Well, music has always been my passion besides my work. There are uncountable genres of music these days and given my old age, I don’t think I can follow them all. But I have to say that traditional folk music is always something I love listening to… it takes me back to my past and is actually what defines the true origin of Nepali music. Text» Avant Shrestha Photos» Sanu Raja Maharjan subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 81
new spark
new spark
new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark
Arden the Beauty Point
lly establishing Arden the Beauty Point, after successfu beauty and makeup hair, all for itself as one of the best stop better place in and er bigg a to ed shift now solutions, has ience, Arden amb new Kupondole. With a new place and a cutting, hair than y toda offer definitely has a lot more to Walk . ities facil lar regu r othe and g threading, colourin service. Plus, they in today for a complete personalised styling classes from hair also offer professional beauty and ire. Ghim sh Raje st styli makeup artist and hair le ondo Kup Kandevsthan Complex, 3rd Floor, week a days n Open: 8am to 7pm, seve Tel: 5011778
Times Square Mall
ping mall in K-town, Times Square Mall, the newest shop shopping. A paradise of e offers you a whole new experienc alike, Times Square ists tour and ls loca for all shopaholics – accessories, gadgets, Mall is the stop for all things, fashion, e prices. If you are nabl reaso communication and food, yet at y to taste the happ than e mor be a total food lover, you will t called Street Court, a delicacies offered by this new food cour er and in-betweens. dinn perfect place to hang out for lunch, Durbar Marg Open: 11am to 9pm, seven days a week
Manny’s eatery an
d Tap
©VOW photofile/Nibendra Prdhananga
Smart Department Store
stores, SMART, with One of the newly-opened departmental s everything from offer rt” the slogan “Be Smart, Shop Sma branded fashion to ucts prod ty beau groceries, kitchen and c home appliances. wear. Also in the pipeline are electroni much more e mad The shopping experience here is and underground Café ge Loun rt comfortable owing to Sma parking facility. Jawalakhel a week Open: 8:30am to 8:30pm, seven days
Text» Malvika Biswas
as bar This superbly ador ned eatery is a blend of four different seating areas – Co ffee and Smoking lounge, a glass din hall, tapas bar and ing if all that were not enough, there’s als the garden oasis wh o ich boasts of a movie screen. The eatery welcomes you to a peaceful milieu an d serves you authen mouth-watering cu tic, isine. For the lunch quickie this is an express stop if you have an hour to ea t, discuss business get back to the off and ice. Inside Shaligram Vi llage, Jawalakhel to wards Ekantakuna Open: 8am to 11pm , seven days a week Tel: 5536919
star signs
Are you
too busyfor LOVE? Are you making enough time to add romance to your life? If not, then check your star signs to clear your schedule for love… and make precious, passionate memories!
Aries
(21 Mar – 19 Apr) You know the newest hobby that you’re so passionate about? A year ago, you didn’t know the first thing about it, but now you’re a confident expert. It’s just the latest of your pet obsessions that’s getting in the way of love. Put it aside for a bit.
Taurus (20 Apr – 20 May)
It’s hard for Taurus to go on a ‘quick’ date, since your idea of romance usually means a whole evening, day, or weekend devoted to someone. You could end up skipping love entirely. Force yourself to take just an hour for a date or a few minutes to write a quick note of appreciation to your crush.
Gemini (21 May – 20 Jun)
You have a great ability to pay attention to somebody even when you’re doing something else. If you’re too busy with errands to make a date with your special someone, try asking your love interest to tag along to make time fly.
Cancer
(21 Jun – 22 Jul) Cancer people are so loving that they might transfer that care and attention to other things if they get too busy. If you’re getting way too passionate about a work project or pet, that’s a sign that you need to pull back from those things to open up your time for love. 84 | VOW | september 2011
Leo
Sagittarius (22 Nov – 21 Dec)
Virgo
Capricorn (22 Dec – 19 Jan)
(23 Jul – 22 Aug) Are you working to live or living to work? A Leo can get caught in a spiral of material accumulation. If you spend all your time maintaining your toys or trying to buy new ones, see if you can do without for a while and spend quality time with people of interest instead. (23 Aug – 22 Sep) A Virgo can get too detail oriented, which can eliminate free time. Whether it means staying late at work to finish a project or spending all weekend setting up a new computer, try doing just an adequate job and then walking away to find companionship.
Libra (23 Sep – 22 Oct)
Decisions, decisions! A Libra can overthink the idea of finding love until the moment has passed. Instead of thinking all day about what you might be able to do that evening in order to secure love, just make a choice and go with it. If the bar scene doesn’t work this week, you can try something else next week.
Scorpio (23 Oct – 21 Nov)
A Scorpio tends to like to do something big and well, or not do it at all. You may have to plan ahead to make time for love by surprising a boy/girlfriend with a weekend getaway. Or join a single’s club that puts dates on your calendar ahead of time.
Your optimism may lead you to break too many dates when you can’t finish required work or chores ahead of time. Make more time for love by setting more flexible dates or suggesting two potential date days. That way, it’s easy to reschedule if needed.
You would rather be early to a date and read a book while waiting than be one minute late, but that makes it harder to squeeze one into your schedule. Give yourself permission to be flexible with start times and you will find more room for love in your life.
Aquarius
(20 Jan – 18 Feb) You always think that you can make time later for yourself or for love, but your hardworking attitude doesn’t give you those breaks. Force yourself to devote a regular time each week to being open to finding love instead of working on the home, car, or job.
Pisces (19 Feb – 20 Mar)
Your social life is important to you, but that might mean you spend more time with your crush in a group instead of having one-on-one time that can blossom into deeper love. Carve out time from larger social occasions to have some private time with a special person.
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