Paradigm Shift in Nepali Nationalism
Posted on August 29th, 2008 by UWB : Through out Nepal’s history, past regimes have tried to advocate for nationalism to balance diplomacy between China and India. : By Krishna Giri
Thanks to the CA members who have managed to appoint a Prime Minister after exhausting four months, 1/6th of the total time allocated to write the new constitution for new Nepal. They have not only wasted the most valuable time but also whacked over 3billion rupees for the salaries and services payments. One of the poorest people in the world has paid enough prices; money, lives, destruction; for the appointment of this new Prime Minister. Soon after his appointment, the PM was off to China to complete a disgrace tour started by de-facto minister Pradeep Nepal. Until now, every decision taken by CA assembly has waged serious questions about nationalism and patriotism. Taking the oath by VP in Hindi to costumes worn by new PM during official ceremony has rewarded unprecedented apprehensions about the paradigm shift in Nepal’s nationalism and patriotism. Equivocal nationalism demonstrated by VP and PM has unlocked doors to cease the state base nationalism and adopt ethnic and stateless nationalism. All will catch a clear picture once Upendra Yadav meets his Indian counterpart and possibly Indian PM in Madhesi attires. We are going to observe a historic inauguration of nationalism in new Nepal.
When the nationwide protests were on against the VP’s swearing in Hindi, the Maoist and its unions fuelled the issue wherever possible and backed up the protest unconditionally. They tried to influence the up righted public that they truly stand and represent the Nepali nationalism. But it took only days when Maoist supremo took oath as first republican PM in western suit and tie. And they publicly admitted that they are communist and hence they are international. Vis-a-vis with VP, one ignored the national language and other ignored the national dress. But the most fascinating thing is both of them have utterly articulated for nationalism. VP demonstrated ethnic based nationalism where as PM demonstrated stateless nationalism. Some other minor parties are already representing regional nationalism. The biggest threat at this stage is the possibility of abolishing state based nationalism and its dire consequences in Nepal’s international relations. If the government fails to uphold the state based nationalism, that may sow the seed for civil war and injects slow poison to patriotism.
Nationalism remains an important part of relations between states and also of the domestic politics of many countries. Nationalism is now the moral basis of states and of international system. Through out Nepal’s history, past regimes have tried to advocate for nationalism to balance diplomacy between China and India. In many instances, Nepal’s nationalism played crucial roles to garner reciprocal respects from neighbours. Nationalism and the state are new phenomena given the importance they play in international relations today. One of the most difficult theoretical and applied problems of the post-Cold War era has been the search for an adequate understanding of the resurgence of religion, ethnicity and stateless nationalism in international relations. More exclusively, social scientists and policymakers have been challenged to clarify the nature and impacts of religion, ethnicity, and stateless nationalism in both sub-state and inter-state conflicts in the international system. Most observers are convinced that patriotism can leave most people more blind than they should be to their country’s political imperfections, something loads of critics have argued regarding Americans since the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
Yet that sort of hyper-nationalism has not often led to the kind of violent conflict which claimed millions of people in the twentieth century. One of the major causes of most of those conflicts has been nationalism of a different kind; one that gets out of hand, turns into hatred of others, and sparks violence, often of the most brutal form. That is especially true when leaders of states can convince people that they have somehow been treated abusively by the ‘other’. I don’t want to talk about the interstate war caused by nationalism but in brief, there is no more obvious example than World War II. Japan, Italy, and especially Germany were all led by leaders who stressed unmet nationalist goals and grievances in the years leading up to the outbreak of fighting in 1939. While psychologists and historians still debate exactly how this took place, there is little doubt that the intense emotions felt by leaders and followers alike contributed to the atrocities committed by people from all three of these countries.
There is no realistic possibility of creating Nepal as ethnically pure states; for instance, there is, no way to envision Hutu or Tutsi states emerging out of either Rwanda or Sudan. Ethnic based nationalism is just a cheap propaganda which only helps to spread anti national sentiment. We have seen the results of ethnic based nationalism in Kashmir, Chechnya, Sudan, or most of the former Yugoslav republics. But, the people who take up arms in those conflicts share the same kind of deeply rooted emotions that gave rise to the Nazis. Similarly, stateless nationalism will not play any effective roles at home and in overseas because they fail to develop any strategy in foreign policy and international relations. Unfinished work of Marx in this regard took some momentum by Lenin’s foreign policy but it was not adequate for 21st century to stay statelessness and just live for and with ideology. Stateless nationalism has failed to deliver emotional attachment and commitment to patriotism to their nation. When these events are left unaccounted, there are risks of losing identity and subsequently losing nationalism and patriotism. A country with a history of unified nation should never pose different sentiments of nationalism. People must be concerned and awake about this shifting in nationalism policies. Should we really be shifting our paradigm in nationalism? I do not think we have reached in that point to make such gigantic plunge and we are not prepared for it. This new government in new Nepal should not abandon the traditional concept of state based nationalism. Nationalism is not an election promise and this country can not afford ethnic or stateless nationalism. The government must concentrate on things that can unite Nepal including national dress, national language, national flag, and our proud history.
Debate: parth guragain, on August 30th, 2008 at 8:36 am Said: we should not demopnastrate nationalism by dress or language.nationalism is a felling for country and one should respect its feeling and uphold its principle.politician wear cert6ain type of cloth when they are at some part of country and wear another type of cloth when they are at other part.this is there technique for impressing that section of population.this is for getting more votes in elections there is no any sound base in this.this things are known by the people as they slowlly when they get educated.so the mst important thig is education so as more and more people get educated these leaders will be more analysed by people and people will decide on these issues by their virtue not by their instints.
Narayan, on August 30th, 2008 at 3:30 pm Said: Jasle j gare pani hamro rastriyata ma khabali naawos…hami sabai nepal bhayeko ma garba garau….desh drohi sakti badeka chan….sabailai chetana bhaya……..Ma mare pani mero desh bachi rahos……..Janani janma bhumischa swargadapi gariyesi…….Rato ra chandra surya jangi nisaan hamro………antya ma…..hey NETA haru ho……..nadai naala beche pani hamro desh chahi nabecha ….mero bhannu yeti nai ho
Bahadur, on August 31st, 2008 at 9:47 am Said: Nepal’s nationalism depends on uniformity across various ethnic groups. Khas ji above mentioned his observation of Daura suruwal being widely used in Nepal and hindus being majority. Well, anyone who knows little bit of history of Nepal can figure out in a glimpse of an eye that current status of daura suruwal and khas bhasa is a result of mean spirited hindunization of the country by Mahendra in the 60s. Many of the natives sufferred brunt of imposed hindu culture, but many of them also lost their languauge. An obvious example is some Newars who are ashamed of their own language and pretend to act like a Bahun trying to speak Nepali. Well, although I speak five languages, and encourage people to learn other languages, the damage of losing or demoting one’s own culture can never be forgiven.
nepalichoro, on September 3rd, 2008 at 7:25 am Said:
I totally disagree with your view too globalistyou are corrupt tooDaura surwal is not panchayat not dez ma grand dad ma ppl worn for a long time its our identity its rooted in our heart n we need to protect our identity..Cheu ko magar dai talo ghar ko tamang dai pari ko newar baje sabai sang maile euta bhasa ma kura garchu tyo ho "nepali" we need to communicate n every country have there official language..I live abroad n we have ppl from different race/society and we speak in language call " English"its a bridge between people from various back ground it connects " so does nepali coz we communicate despite different race/jaat in nepalese n its widely n commonly used language ..I dont wear daura surwal tara when m getin married if i take a responsible post one day i’ll wear daura surwal its my identiy we carried from our fore fatheri think globalist u turned into too much liberal or leftist u need to think now..we celebrate festival we dont’ need that — n so does every country in the world have different festival we dont’ need that but its identity..spain tomoato festival brazil ko carnival its there culture there identity n de protect itglobalist as ur comments shows u r traitor u think u too good n brainy then any one .. u think u modern but modernism respect history/cultureramjee u were 100% rite …we called people like globalist " SMART ASS"
I think we need to have our own nepalese common identity..as most of the nation around the world have.. / its not anti-indian sentimen we need to be careful with indiawise & dumb, on September 1st, 2008 at 2:17 pm Said: Hey guys, / nepali ko nationalism kahile pani mardaina / hami marna didainua / hami desh ko lagi marna tayar chau / forget the leaders sabai JOGI aye pani KAN chireka haru /ek week ma dekhi sakiyo kursi ra satta ko lagi ladai / aba yo desh bachaune hami janta le ho khukuri ko bharma kohi neta chor harule yo desh lai kehi gardainan hami eklai chau yo ladai ma /tesaile aba hami jantaharu jutau sathi hoooo / jaya nepal (yo congress ko jaya nepal haina yo mero desh ko jay ko lagi ho…congresi harule yo sabda lai copy right garna khojchan arka chor haru)
Source: http://blog.com.np/united-we-blog/2008/08/29/paradigm-shift-in-nepali-nationalism/
Nationalism Tirade of the Maoist Comrade
Posted on December 7th, 2007 by UWB /The question why it is important to forge unity with "royalist nationalists" at this juncture is even more puzzling. /By Ameet Dhakal
Last week, Prachanda launched his nationalism tirade. God knows why. But common wisdom tells us that autocrats of all hues and colors use the nationalism card to trump democracy. The Maoists never had democratic credentials; now that their commitment to it is in serious doubt, it’s quite natural for them to take refuge in nationalism (I am resisting from quoting Samuel Johnson who famously said that patriotism was the last refuge of scoundrels).
Prachanda has called for a new unity among "royalist nationalists", mainstream parties and the Maoists. His remarks raise two key questions:
1. Who are these "royalist nationalists"?2. Why is it important at this point to forge a new unity with them?
Prachanda answered none of these questions. He wouldn’t.
His deputy commander Barsha Man Pun offered an explanation to the Kathmandu Post: The new nationalists are people in the military, police and bureaucracy. Huh, does that make any sense?
Two developments have taken place in the last few months that partly explain the Maoists’ latest distraction. First, an army general who aspires to become army chief by replacing Rookmangud Katwal established contact with the Maoists and told them that he would facilitate integration of the Nepal Army and the Maoists’ combatants should he become army chief. Sources say the current army leadership quickly reached out to the Maoists and told them that the army was not averse to the integration process, and that it was an issue to be decided by the political leadership.
Second, intelligence sources say Maoist leaders have held several meetings with royalists, including some former ministers in the king’s cabinet. It’s unclear who initiated these meetings and what their agenda was.
The question why it is important to forge unity with "royalist nationalists" at this juncture is even more puzzling.
The Maoists have been obstructing the constituent assembly polls arguing that elections were not possible without first abolishing the monarchy. But now they say that the country can’t move ahead without entering into an alliance with "royalist nationalists"? How are these people, whose very identity is "royalist", different from the king? And if they support democracy, want peace and defend nationalism, are the Maoists saying that the king alone — ONE MAN — is trying to and is capable of obstructing the polls? Have they gone crazy?
One reason why the Maoists are increasingly chanting the nationalism slogan has to do with the India factor. During his last visit, former Indian Secretary Shyam Saran told the Maoists two things: First, the peace process and elections are inseperable, and if the Maoists shy away from the elections, it would rally the international community to encourage other parties to go for polls without the Maoists.
Second, the Maoists would no more be allowed to use Indian territory, as they did in the past, should they walk out of the peace process. The Maoists seem not only angry but increasingly nervous about India. Sources say that despite Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala’s hesitation, it was Prachanda and UML general secretary Madhav Kumar Nepal who took the initiave to invite former US president Jimmy Carter to help with the stalled peace process. In the Maoists’ calculation, Carter could offer some counter balance to the increasing Indian pressure on them.
Divorced from reality, the Maoists are making silly calculations about regional and international geopolitics. In his interview with Rajdhani daily on Thursday, Prachanda said, "If the United States tries to suppress us, Europe will provide us some help. If India tries to suppress us, China will oppose it; and if someone else tries to supress us, Russia will support us." Does this make any sense?
"Nationalist royalists" who were unhappy with India for "orchestrating" the April Uprising— millions of Nepalis coming out on the streets against the king means nothing to them just as seeking a fresh mandate from the people has no meaning to the Maoists— now see the Maoists as paragons of nationalism. They have a common interest: Deny the people their sovereign right.
Prachanda even urged the "big media" to understand the compulsion of this new unity with the "royalist nationalists" and act accordingly. Only a few weeks ago, Prachanda claimed that the "big media" had sold out to expansionaists and imperialists. How come that now you are urging "puppets" of expansionists and imperialists to support the "nationalist alliance"?
Ameet Dhakal is the news editor of the Kathmandu Post where this piece appeared first. Continue reading the article here.
Comment: Vashir, on December 7th, 2007 at 4:55 pm Said: When so much outside interference occurs, National interests must be put into the forefront. Maybe it’s required for at least 2 decades, maybe more, who knows? Using the nationalist theme isn’t a novel idea. The Chinese have done it. The British, Dutch, Belgians, Danes, Swedish, Norwegian have done it. The Indians and the Americans have done it./ There’s no harm in using it. There’s only the objection of using it for all the wrong reasons.With Nepal as the central theme, we have to develop a system that works for us. /Instead of all these ‘good-intending’ forces making arbitrary suggestions, they should sit down together, possibly with people who don’t have super-egos (e.g. King, Prachanda, Girija, Bamdev, Oli, Bhattarai, Badal.. the list goes on) and and find a common roadmap to lead Nepal in the correct direction. Ram, on December 7th, 2007 at 9:29 pm Said: Maoist are bad political player and time will sweep them. Nothing to say. Just Nepali Natawarlal
sagarmatha, on December 9th, 2007 at 4:26 pm Said: The word "Nationalist" is very important at this moment. All those, ethnic groups, who are fighting for their genuine rights also should be nationalist. Why Mr. Sitaula so worried about nationalist word. The nationalist can be NC, can be UML and maoist and can be ethnic parties and can be royalist too. All we need is unity and nationalist at this moment.
My Comment: At the bottom of the page there is comment box so that anyone reader can read and reply within few seconds it means it helps to generate debate so fast then other mediu.Source: http://blog.com.np/united-we-blog/2007/12/07/nationalism-tirade-of-the-maoist-comrade/Comment for first: Giri: The conclusion therefore is that there can be a national flag, a national anthem but there can be no 'one national language' but 'several national languages'. Yes there can be a 'lingua franca' (Nepali language in Nepal, Russian in former USSR and so on). There cannot also be no one religion as national religion because many different people practice different practices and no one should ever try to impose 'one religion'.By: Adarsha Tuladhar said... Source: http://nepaliperspectives.blogspot.com/2008/08/paradigm-shift-in-nepali-nationalism.html
Nepali Nationalism - The Maoists' Hold the CardsThe royalist voter base in Nepal is a voter base nonetheless. The Maoists' offer the most sophisticated understanding of this reality and appear ready to take measures aimed at calming the hardcore rightists while enticing the agenda-driven right wing to join the Maoist ranks. They experienced some success in captivating the minds of fellow nationalists before elections, and appear ready to encourage other agenda-driven nationalists to follow suit.Given their political interest, whether or not the Maoists' permit King Gyanendra cultural rights is immaterial. More significant is that the Maoists are the ones pushing to create space for Gyanendra within Nepal. Keeping an individual like Gyanendra inside Nepal's borders is an insurance policy against the popularity that a dethroned Hindu monarch would enjoy amongst the religiously inclined Indian population.Further, the Maoists' seem to understand the core distinction in the royalist ranks better than all of their political adversaries combined. They understand that a portion of the Nepali population that chooses to pay homage to Gyanendra will do so irrespective of whether he holds a constitutionally driven title or not. It is the more rational, agenda-driven ranks of the royalist camp that the Maoists are interested in drawing to their cause.In some ways, despite their wildly fluctuating public rhetoric, not forcing the monarch out of Nepal is similar to offering King Gyanendra an olive branch. More precisely, it's an offering of peace to the hardcore royalist ranks, the construction of an ideological bridge between the current and future nationalist flag-bearers, and food for thought for loyalist remnants within Nepal's military.The Indian government's pre-emptive call to revise the 1950 treaty is music to the Nepali nationalists' ears. Recalling Prachanda's rant that begins with "Ultimately, we will have to fight the Indian Army…. (http://www.southasiaanalysis.org/papers3/paper277.html), probably has the most delusional nationalists, frothing at their mouths. /In summary, the Maoists own the Nepali nationalist agenda. There are no other contenders for this title. The useful idiots in the Nepali Congress who expect the disillusioned ranks of the royalists to come knocking on their door are in for an unpleasant surprise. Source: http://nepaliperspectives.blogspot.com/2008/04/all-right-agendas-nepali-national.html
Nepali Nationalism and Prashant Tamang : 2008-01-01 13:38:00 : (Courtesy: Roop Joshi)The latest display of nationalism, or at least a variation of it, which I saw recently came about in rather an ironic fashion. An Indian Policeman from Darjeeling won the ?Indian Idol? song competition and Nepalis went wild with pride and joy. This is not to take anything away from Prashant. A clean cut young man, who probably looks more ?Nepali? than you or me, he has a beautiful voice and sings Nepali songs from the heart. The irony, obviously, is that the latest show of Nepali nationalism can be attributed to the musical talents of an Indian policeman. Where then are our Nepali icons and idols?Nationalism is defined as ?Patriotic feeling, principles, or efforts; policy of national independence? by the Oxford English Dictionary. In today?s Nepal, nationalism means different things to different people. It is a concept either mutated for political convenience or, more often, ignored altogether. What makes us proud to be a Nepali and how do we express this pride... By: Prashant Tamang
Promoted to Headline (H3) on 7/13/08: / Communalism Is Superior to Nationalism / by Krishna Hari Pushkar Page 1 of 2 page(s) /Krishna Hari Pushkar holds special expertise in the areas of peace, security and conflict management with relevance to developing countries and is currently affiliated with Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of Nepal. This paper looks into the issue of communalism and its superiority to nationalism, with a short case assessment of Nepal's Madhesis movement. The main hope of the paper is to begin an academic and political discussion about the conventional definitions and traditional concepts of nationalism and communalism. Is communalism superior to nationalism? This paper presents my experiences and observation about communalism found in various cases.
Communalism means a hereditist spontaneous loyalty and down-to-earth commitment toward a similar ethnic community or caste or racial group to which people belong. Communalism is stronger than nationalism, particularly when such people, groups, or communities represent a minority or less mainstreamed part of society who often suffer discrimination. This can include disabled people, lesbians and gays, or people of particular professions, religions, or any groups or communities that share and express like concerns. Communalism is a spontaneous feeling or state of mind that binds people intellectually or emotionally to a particular course of action, to achieve specific goals. Communal feelings force people to some extent to act in a particular manner. This is done knowingly or unconsciously, because communalism springs from heredity, or conventional and contemporary practices. It is human nature to associate with an inherently recognized identity, or it can be constructed in some exceptional cases by particular society or groups to fulfill contemporary needs, e.g. to achieve rights or recognition, etc. Communalism is part of natural phenomena, which exist, in every human society. However, its level, type or degree may differ in person-to-person, society-to-society, region-to-region and situation-to-situation. Conversely, nationalism is a broader umbrella term with limited horizons. It is based on legal doctrines and connects citizenship with a specific geographic boundary. But status within that boundary may be changed easily, as when people legally immigrate or emigrate. Also, borders fluctuate, being unilaterally or multilaterally revised, so nationalism as a concept can be murky. Further, nationalism promotes the idea that one culture and set of interests are superior to any other. But in practice, where societies and communities are pluralistic, nationalism tends to be secondary to regional identities and concerns. In reality, millions of people change their national citizenship simply to enjoy a better standard of living, or to take advantage of better employment opportunities, better education, or to fulfill some specific missions and goals. Therefore, the notion of nationalism seems very fragile in contemporary society. Nationalism vs. Communalism : The traditional philosophy of nationalism seems no longer valid nor significant as a trusted platform of integrity and sovereignty. The definition of nationalism should be modified as per contemporary perspectives of people's interests, trends and nature. Nationalism should be denoted with diversities of communalism rather than a hard-line definition, which seems based and valid only in some extent of homogeneous society's structure. However, radicalism in communalism can be harmful to a nation, therefore, governments should play a vital role in balancing the interests of a pluralist society. If not, communalism can be turned into ethnic conflict.
To manage and minimize the negative influence of radical communalism, governments should introduce effective nation building polices, balance power sharing among all ethnic and social groups, develop a proportional inclusion structure in all possible state organs, and designed community-based integrated development packages. Specifically, racial and ethnic discrimination should be abolished through effective policies. The superiority or dominance of particular castes, or groups, families, or culture, should be eliminated. Social justice can be materialized through adopting several approaches for equity and equality by using various tools such as positive discrimination for marginalized groups, scientific localized structure of federalism, community participation, induction of a balanced redistribution system, and democratization of the nation through political, administrative, economic and diplomatic channels. One of the most important ways to effect social justice is to use official efforts for converting the mindset of respective individuals and communities so that citizens feel ownership towards the nation where he or she holds legal nationality. But nations should recognize that people will always identify more closely with their own regional culture, like the Turkish ethnic German people who are legally German but who never accepted themselves as German. They will always reject German nationalism over communal affinities. Communalism is superior to nationalism. Communalism is a more deeply held value than nationalism. The higher degree or intensive influences of radical communalism is dangerous to sustainable peace and security. Radical communalism can directly affect social harmony in pluralistic society. But, communalism can be managed through proper handling. Governments can take advantage of the positive aspects of communalism during the course of community development programs, institution building, infrastructure development, preservation of heritage, culture and social phenomena, etc. The broader influence of communalism defeats the contentedness of nationalism. Therefore, the superiority of nationalism is no longer valid in contemporary society. Hence, communalism is superior to nationalism. Source: http://www.opednews.com/articles/-Communalism-Is-Superior-t-by-Krishna-Hari-Pushk-080713-729.html
PREFACE : Nationalism has been one of the determining forces in modern history. It originated in eighteenth century West- ern Europe; during the nineteenth century it spread all over Europe; in the twentieth century it has become a world-wide movement, and its importance in Asia and Africa is growing with every year. But nationalism is not the same in all countries and at all times. It is a historical phenomenon and thus determined by the political ideas and the social structure of the various lands where it takes root. / An understanding of nationalism and its implications for modern history and for our time appears as funda- mental today as an understanding of religion would have been for thirteenth century Christendom. Like religion, nationalism can present many and most diverse forms. Only a study of the historical growth of nationalism and a comparative study of its different forms can make us understand the impact of nationalism today, the promise and the peril which it has carried and continues to carry for the liberty of man and the preservation of peace. Miss Lorraine Waxman has been most helpful in pre- paring the manuscript for publication. I wish to express : my thanks to her. 1955, BY/ HANS KOHN / Published simultaneously in Canada by / D. VAN NOSTRAND COMPANY (Canada), LTD.
Joy: Anonymous said... Please stop flooding google videos with your political propoganda videos... I don't want the people of the world to get *your* wrong idea of Nepal... Source: http://demrepubnepal.blogspot.com/2006/06/reform-nepali-organizations-in-america.html
Nationalism under threate ... not form India : Nepalmountainnews Report 23 Jun 2008
The country is facing enormous threat from extraneous forces… Nepali nationalism is in danger"./This, the Maoists senior leader, Mr. Mohan Vaidya Pokharel Kiran said while adressing to media men in the capital./However, much to the chagrin of the listeners, Mr. Pokharel---considered till the other day as a sharp critique of the Indian highhandedness in Nepal said, "I do not think that India’s fresh moves in Nepal meant that they were unnecessarily poking nose in Nepal’s internal affairs". Jesus Christ!/Mr. Pokharel’s remarks have come at a time when the independent and the Nepali Congress tilled media sector and some other political actors have been criticizing Indian ambassador, Mr. Rakesh Sood’s undiplomatic behaviors continuing since his arrival in Kathmandu on April 23, 08. /Only the other day, Friday June 21, 08, Mr. Pokharel talking to a vernacular newspaper (Bimarsh Weekly) had said that "India’s so-called largest democracy was a sham which exceeded even the erstwhile Panchayat regime of the bygone era". (Read the Bimarsha Weekly dated June 21, 08, for Mr. Vaidya’s views as regards India). / "I do not see any threat from India…yet Nepali nationalism is facing enormous threats from Western countries but not India"./"Since Ambassador Sood is openly lobbying for the Maoists’ government in Nepal…Mr. Pokharel’s remarks can be taken as a normal affair", analysts say.A volte face indeed, which has come at a time when the Maoists are prepared to run the state affairs very shortly! /The past "Indian obligation" while in "exile" perhaps compels the Maoists to speak as is desired by the Indian establishment. / Let’s presume that the Indian establishment will have an open field to play their politics while the Maoists are in power./Intelligent analysts say that it is just the beginning of the beginning. / The enlarged version of the "Indian interference" will hopefully come to the fore in a matter of weeks if not days. Jesus Christ! Almighty is only the savior.
My country has never been ruled by others : June 14, 2007: No doubt Nepal is one of the most beautiful mountainous countries in the world but billions of People from the globe still don’t know Nepal’s political and geographical situation. Some of them are in confusion that whether it is an independent nation or a part of some country. / I think it is unfortunate that Nepal is still facing the crisis of identify even in this 21st century of globalization. When I sometime use Yahoo or some other Messengers and chat with unknown friends from different countries, naturally they ask me my ASL (age, sex and location) first. As I answer Nepal for L, most of them react, with a question, Nepal as a part of India. Few of them sometime think Nepal lies in the Tibet.
When I wished to check the popularity of Nepal in the Internet, I found 98,300,000 results for Nepal as I Googled it but found 115,000,000 results for Sri Lanka that is 2.24 times smaller in area than the Nepal. I think the economy and the sports are two most important phenomenons for the identity of every country. Sri Lanka holds more than seven percent of GDP growth rate while Nepal is only around two. Talking about sports Sri Lanka is very forward in cricket but the Nepal’s rank is very low in most of the games. /Since Nepal is a developing country there is more to be done for its development. Nepal is very rich in water recourses and high mountains that we could utilize for the development of our country. To be developed is itself a good identity of a country. During the10 years political conflict and royal massacre of Nepal, the country was introduced negatively to the world however it is in the peace process now and trying to be introduced itself as a new Nepal./ Author: Rup Narayan Dhakal, Nepal: Source: http://voiceofsouth.org/2007/06/14/nepalindia/
Comment: on March 20, 2008 at 7:55 HYPERLINK "http://prafull.987mb.com"K.Prafull : on March 20, 2008 at 7:55 am K.Prafull Good article but meaningless, you should study the history of your country first. I never claim it as a part of india but it was not because of your bravery but because of Indian highness.Never try to compare Nepal with The Great Indian Republic.Nepalese can be proud to be Nepalese, becouse they cant be Indian ever what they tried to be [examples are endless].Hoping Nepal will retain its sovereignity forever my best wishes are with you.Good article but meaningless, you should study the history of your country first. I never claim it as a part of india but it was not because of your bravery but because of Indian highness.Never try to compare Nepal with The Great Indian RepublicNepalese can be proud to be Nepalese, becouse they cant be Indian ever what they tried to be [examples are endless].Hoping Nepal will retain its sovereignity forever my best wishes are with you. My: Diasporic view and its coment on him. Here we can fine different images about Nepal.
Aryan Actually at one point Nepal was apart of India. But the problem is alot of countries in the past might not have had official boarders like they do today. Sometimes maybe they did and sometimes maybe they didnt. I don’t know. But Nepal is apart of Ancient India, and it’s right by the country, and their are similiarities between Nepal and India, so it’s not like were comparing Mexico to Japan. Nepal was apart of India.
The Resurgence of Nepali Nationalism / Maoist supremo is now on the threshold of refolding and re-writing Nepal’s history / By Preeti Koirala: Thanks to the facilitation by New Delhi primarily by the two Indian leftist parties to bring the Maoists into the mainstream, New Delhi has repeated its LTTE fiasco and the Maoist supremo is now on the threshold of refolding and re-writing that part of Nepal’s history which is regarded as disgraceful and shameful by every nationalist Nepali. Prachanda could well be a leader of not only the Nepalis living inside Nepal but also those Nepali brothers and sisters that have been living outside. None after King Mahendra and Madan Bhandari have been able to enthrall the Nepalis on the self-respect that we were never colonized. If he wants to rectify his image tarnished by the killings of innocent Nepalis since 1996, Prachanda can and must use the nationalism card once again and get inducted in an interim government. The days of proud Nepali nationalism are visible here.;(Ms. Koirala is an insurance executive based in the U.S.
How to teach poetry? Whether you're teaching kindergarteners or an adult enrichment class, a poetry lesson can be engaging for all if you take a few things into consideration first. Examine your attitudes toward poetry. Before your teach poetry, you must first consider your own thoughts and feelings on the subject. Perhaps you love all things poetry, so you can do nothing but inspire students with your enthusiasm. However, most people have at least a few biases against poetry or preconceived notions about it. You may prefer formal, rhymed poetry and see free verse as so much nonsense. Maybe you love the modern works of living, breathing poets, but you must be forced to read the classics. Being aware of these tendencies will keep you from unfairly influencing the opinions of your class and can help you strive for balance in the poetry you teach.
Determine your goals. Before planning any lesson, you should determine your goals. This is especially important with poetry, because you can take several different approaches to the subject, each requiring different preparation.
Enjoyment - You may simply wish for students to gain an overall appreciation of poetry, so you can plan your lessons around enjoying the poetry you read. Have fun with the rhythm of the words, look for intriguing images, and find poems with inspiring messages and themes.
Literary analysis - In many classes, poetry is studied with an eye on dissecting its meaning. The emphasis is on identifying literary techniques like simile and metaphor and evaluating their effectiveness. This analytical approach can sometimes hinder students' enjoyment of poetry, but such analysis is also an important skill, so finding a balance is key.
Creative writing - The focus may also be on leading students to create their own poetry. Students experiment with a variety of forms of poetry as a way of expressing themselves. However, this approach usually involves reading a wide range of poetry for inspiration.
Learn the terminology. If you're going to be discussing poetry, you need to learn the proper language. You'll need to know the forms of poetry, from haiku to sonnet, and the techniques poets use to build their work. If you don't feel comfortable with poetic devices and forms, look for a literary reference text.
Select the poems. Finding the right poems for a lesson is a bit of a treasure hunt. In some situations, you'll be teaching poetry from a required text, so you won't have much say in the poems you use. If you have a choice, start by browsing through collections of poetry at the library and bookstore. Think back to poems you studied in school or have read for your own enjoyment, and choose a few of your favorites. You should also look for poems illustrating techniques you'd like to highlight. Try to represent poets of different eras, genders, nationalities, and races.
Practice reading. Poetry is meant to be read aloud, so read each poem through several times to get a feel for it and to decide how to read it to best effect. What words will you emphasize and where will you pause? If you're not comfortable with your poetry performance skills, look for audio files of professional readers or even the poets reading their own poems. Search: http://www.poets.org/viewmedia.php/prmMID/16036

One Nepal, one country and Nepali-ness :
By Dr Rita Thapa
It is hard to define the Nepali-ness. Call it a complex mixture of tenacity, resilience, tolerance, flexibility laced with "Bibek" (do not find appropriate English word to express it), but cannot define it specifically. One can only feel it. In my long working experiences in public health field within and outside the country, my Nepali-ness, among others, has sailed me well through the thick and thin.
Without risking any definition, Nepali-ness comes as a unique element that is generic in every Nepali heart and mind. This is regardless of her/his place of birth-tarai, hilly or himali regions of Nepal or elsewhere outside the country. It is one element that has kept Nepalis together for ages. It has earned Nepalis international trust, respect, and goodwill.
The artists in the likes of Ambar Gurung, Tara Devi, Uddit Narayan Jha, Prashant Tamang and Meera Thapa have been able to express it best.
More importantly, the decade-long conflict ending with successful completion of the historical Constituent Assembly Election, women constituting 50 percent of the CA members-the largest record in the world, and surprising every one by giving a governance chance to the never tested political Party of the Maoists -all these speak of the unique Nepali-ness.
In short, I believe that our Nepali-ness comes from the inter-generational collective memory of enjoying peaceful existence in diversity. This is generic to every Nepali, be it in tarai, hill and mountain. This thread of Nepali-ness has historically unified Nepal and benefited Nepalis within outside the country. Thus, despite the current slogans for ethnicity-based separate geographic entities, I believe that this very Nepali-ness ingrained in every Nepali heart and mind will prevent Nepal and Nepali from fragmenting into hundreds of ethnic principalities, especially at this historic moment of carving out for a peaceful, prosperous, and inclusive home for all Nepalis.
My optimism comes from a few evidence-based facts supporting why "one Nepal, one country" is imperative to improve the quality of life of all Nepalis.
Infant mortality is a sensitive indicator for measuring socio-economic development and quality of human life. According to the 2006 Nepal Demographic and Health Survey, Nepal has scored well in reducing its total fertility, infant, child and maternal mortality rates. Nepal's average national infant mortality rate of 48 per 1000 live births fares well compared to that of the regional countries -- India (57), Bangladesh (65), and Pakistan (86). Among the ecological regions in Nepal, mountain has the highest infant mortality rate (99), tarai has the second highest (65), while the hill has the lowest (47). These are no small gains for a country that has suffered decade-long internal conflict, grinding poverty, difficult terrain, and poor governance. This again speaks of the vibrancy of Nepali-ness.
The other compelling reason why we need one Nepal, one country relates to our very survival as Nepali people. Just as a well functioning human body is critically inter-dependent on the functioning of its each and every part, Nepali people's prosperity and healthy existence is also critically inter-dependent on peaceful and equitable living of people in its three ecological regions--tarai, hill, mountain. Each region with its comparative advantage can bring mutual benefits, thus making us wealthier, healthier and happier. In this era of global village, inter-dependence is fundamental to peaceful and prosperous co-existence. So why disrupt our already existing ethnic and ecological harmony? How will it benefit the people living in tarai, hill and mountain regions?
We are going through a difficult transition period; we need to be careful lest we might bring disruption on already covered peace mileage. In this dangerous transition period, our usual Nepali-ness warrants to let the Constituent Assembly begin its work as mandated by us the people.
see: All things about nepliness: their activivies, temples, important cultue desctiption, politics, even some flowers which we get in Nepal. So ...http://n95pic.blogspot.com/2008/05/typical-nepali-looks-and-chitchat.html http://www.kantipuronline.com/kolnews.php?&nid=153128

Coming to Australia?
We have put together some valuable links, please browse through. Below links will give you the true information. Don’t fall for superficial information provided by so called "agents" or NRN "representatives". They cannot grant or influence in any way to obtain a visa. Australian High commission will grant you visa if you fulfill the Government’s requirement. = about gathering people in Australia., animated picture about Nepali temple, cent, Front page : Mountain
Nepaliness is dedicated in establishing a bridge between all Nepalise living in the world. Nepal: In 1951, the Nepalese monarch ended the century-old system of rule by hereditary premiers and instituted a cabinet system of government. Reforms in 1990 established a multiparty democracy within the framework of a constitutional monarchy. An insurgency led by Maoist extremists broke out in 1996. The ensuing nine-year civil war between insurgents and government forces witnessed the dissolution of the cabinet and parliament and assumption of absolute power by the king. Several weeks of mass protests in April 2006 were followed by several months of peace negotiations between the Maoists and government officials, and culminated in a November 2006 peace accord and the promulgation of an interim constitution. The newly formed interim parliament declared Nepal a democratic federal republic at its first meeting in May 2008, the king vacated the throne in mid-June 2008, and parliament elected the country's first president the following month.
President Yadav stresses on Nepaliness
Nepal President Dr. Ram Baran Yadav has called on all Party to join hands to build the nation by rising above ethnicity, religion, communalism and geographical boundaries.
Kathmandu, Sept 27 : Nepal President Dr. Ram Baran Yadav has called on all Party to join hands to build the nation by rising above ethnicity, religion, communalism and geographical boundaries.
After inaugurating a programme on cancer awareness organized by BP Memorial Cancer Hospital here on Friday, Dr. Yadav said, "more than one's language, caste, being Madhesi or Pahadi... the important thing is that we are all Nepalis."
He blamed political instability for failed attempts to institutionalize democracy and said that the government needed to immediately address the causes that were instigating violence in Eastern Nepal.
President Yadav also unveiled a statue of late BP Koirala, one of the founding leaders of Nepali Congress who became the first elected Prime Minister of Nepal.
Meanwhile, Chinese Ambassdor to Nepal Zheng Xianglin handed over medicine worth Rs 1.8 million to the health minister as a donation to the hospital on behalf of the Chinese government, Nepalnews reported. : http://www.newkerala.com/topstory-fullnews-26873.html
One Nepal, one country and Nepali-ness : http://www.kantipuronline.com/kolnews.php?&nid=153128
By Dr Rita Thapa
It is hard to define the Nepali-ness. Call it a complex mixture of tenacity, resilience, tolerance, flexibility laced with "Bibek" (do not find appropriate English word to express it), but cannot define it specifically. One can only feel it. In my long working experiences in public health field within and outside the country, my Nepali-ness, among others, has sailed me well through the thick and thin.
Without risking any definition, Nepali-ness comes as a unique element that is generic in every Nepali heart and mind. This is regardless of her/his place of birth-tarai, hilly or himali regions of Nepal or elsewhere outside the country. It is one element that has kept Nepalis together for ages. It has earned Nepalis international trust, respect, and goodwill.
The artists in the likes of Ambar Gurung, Tara Devi, Uddit Narayan Jha, Prashant Tamang and Meera Thapa have been able to express it best.
More importantly, the decade-long conflict ending with successful completion of the historical Constituent Assembly Election, women constituting 50 percent of the CA members-the largest record in the world, and surprising every one by giving a governance chance to the never tested political Party of the Maoists -all these speak of the unique Nepali-ness.
In short, I believe that our Nepali-ness comes from the inter-generational collective memory of enjoying peaceful existence in diversity. This is generic to every Nepali, be it in tarai, hill and mountain. This thread of Nepali-ness has historically unified Nepal and benefited Nepalis within outside the country. Thus, despite the current slogans for ethnicity-based separate geographic entities, I believe that this very Nepali-ness ingrained in every Nepali heart and mind will prevent Nepal and Nepali from fragmenting into hundreds of ethnic principalities, especially at this historic moment of carving out for a peaceful, prosperous, and inclusive home for all Nepalis.
My optimism comes from a few evidence-based facts supporting why "one Nepal, one country" is imperative to improve the quality of life of all Nepalis.
Infant mortality is a sensitive indicator for measuring socio-economic development and quality of human life. According to the 2006 Nepal Demographic and Health Survey, Nepal has scored well in reducing its total fertility, infant, child and maternal mortality rates. Nepal's average national infant mortality rate of 48 per 1000 live births fares well compared to that of the regional countries -- India (57), Bangladesh (65), and Pakistan (86). Among the ecological regions in Nepal, mountain has the highest infant mortality rate (99), tarai has the second highest (65), while the hill has the lowest (47). These are no small gains for a country that has suffered decade-long internal conflict, grinding poverty, difficult terrain, and poor governance. This again speaks of the vibrancy of Nepali-ness.
The other compelling reason why we need one Nepal, one country relates to our very survival as Nepali people. Just as a well functioning human body is critically inter-dependent on the functioning of its each and every part, Nepali people's prosperity and healthy existence is also critically inter-dependent on peaceful and equitable living of people in its three ecological regions--tarai, hill, mountain. Each region with its comparative advantage can bring mutual benefits, thus making us wealthier, healthier and happier. In this era of global village, inter-dependence is fundamental to peaceful and prosperous co-existence. So why disrupt our already existing ethnic and ecological harmony? How will it benefit the people living in tarai, hill and mountain regions?
We are going through a difficult transition period; we need to be careful lest we might bring disruption on already covered peace mileage. In this dangerous transition period, our usual Nepali-ness warrants to let the Constituent Assembly begin its work as mandated by us the people.
see: All things about nepliness: their activivies, temples, important cultue desctiption, politics, even some flowers which we get in Nepal. So ...http://n95pic.blogspot.com/2008/05/typical-nepali-looks-and-chitchat.html
NEPALINESSNarayan Khadka's vision of a common Nepali identity is reminiscent of the Panchyati days ('Shared past, shared future', #414). Different ethnic groups in Nepal need to ensure that they have a say and are treated equally. And that is why there is a need for provinces divided roughly along ethnic lines.Anand Jha, Texas, USA* Congratulations! Finally a good piece in Nepali Times that shows we have no reason to be ashamed of our history. We are Nepalis and never became a part of British India because of the bravery of our ancestors. Thank you Narayan Khadka for having the courage to write this. Don't waver. There are millions who will agree with you.Rajan, Taulihawa* 100 per cent agreed with Narayan Khadka. Without Prithbi Narayan Shah we would all be a part of the British Empire and eventually India. The visionary campaign to create a modern Nepal was a shared by the Gurungs, Magars, Rais, Kanuwars, and Limbus. Trying to erase this glorious history of Nepal will be a big mistake. If you want to find a fault in this Nepali history, you can, and we should so that we do not repeat it. But, give me one history that is flawless.Rajendra agar, UK* Nepaliness could be defined at different levels. At a basic level, everyone living in Nepal with Nepali citizenship is Nepali. On a deeper level, the real Nepalis are those citizens who are not only proud to be Nepalis but are willing to make sacrifices for Nepal?those who have a spiritual non-religious bond with their motherland. Wise rulers would try to strive for the masses to attain the deeper level of Nepaliness without any suspicion and prejudices.K Rai, UK* An excellent article at a most appropriate time. I hope our new breed of politicians will sacrifice their larger-than- life egos to go through it.C K Shrestha, Kathmandu* Wonderful article. This is exactly what we need, someone defending "Nepaliness" as something not to be ashamed of. Bravo Khadakaji. Don't listen to naysayers and flag burners.Niru, * People are so ashamed of our proud history that we may soon have to go to Darjeeling to celebrate our Nepali culture. So, please protect and preserve it here.Ram S.,KathmanduSMALL FARMERSI agree with Bihari Krishna Shrestha's view ('Sowing doubts', #414) on small-farmer cooperatives and the past World Bank poverty alleviation program. As the small-farmers' program showed, it is a sustainable poverty alleviation model, so why can't the World Bank follow it? The new Maoist-led government should not be tempted to waive small-farmer loans because it will distort the market for microfinance cooperatives. There are lots of farmers who are using their loans properly and are paying back on time, and such populist measures will destroy our achievements.Rabin Choudhari, JanakpurVISA ON ARRIVALI am a frequent visitor to Nepal, and on my latest visit this week experienced the 'New Nepal' on arrival at immigration. Nepal under 'dictator' Gyanendra and 'bourgeois leader' GP Koirala used to allow Bangladeshis to have a visa on arrival without any fee. The rule has changed under the 'proletarian' government of Comrade Prachanda. Now we have to pay $25 for each subsequent visit after the first one (which is still free) in a calendar year. Comrade Prachanda's government also pursues a policy of global egalitarianism. The visa fee is the same for an 'income poor' Bangladeshi and an 'income rich' American.I am still grateful to the government of Nepal for its continued policy of providing a visa on arrival, which our government doesn't reciprocate to Nepalis. But why the change?