FOUNDER | PUBLISHER Kushal KC CO-FOUNDER | MANAGER Ershad Ahmed
From The
Publisher’s Desk Nepal! Nepal! Nepal! The past month has been about Nepal and Nepalese. For the first time in the history, Nepal played in the ICC Twenty20 Tournament in Bangladesh. To the extreme delight of fans and Nepalese living globally, the glorious team led by Paras Khadka managed to leave its mark in the international sphere. Although it ended sooner than we would have liked, the team was showered with honor and welcomed with much fan-fare. The excitement of a proud Nepali needs no further description here. Yes, Nepal and Nepalese are struggling their way into the top, and they’re being seen, heard and watched closely by everyone. This is the time of rising and shining. And not just in cricket. Sunil Babu Pant, a veteran gay rights activist and Nepali politician, has been nominated for the prestigious Nobel Peace prize. Sumnima Udas, a Delhi-based CNN International’s correspondent of Nepali Origin was recognized as ‘Journalist of the Year’ and Subina Shrestha was awarded ‘Broadcast Story of the Year’ in Women’s Empowerment Journalism Award in Singapore. Director Sahara Sharma’s short film ‘Chasing Rainbows’ won the Jury Choice Award at the Toronto Film Festival. Dr. Sanduk Ruit, a Nepali eye surgeon, has been selected for the prestigious Social Entrepreneurs Award by Schwab Foundation for Social Entrepreneurship in Geneva in Switzerland. The list doesn’t stop here, and with our determination and effort, it won’t. There isn’t lack of Nepalese making their mark in Australia – in fact, it houses hardworking people who are working their way to a road less travelled to a distinct destination. We present here Sujan Tamang Pakhrin, the lead singer of Australia-based Nepali band ‘Samagra’, who has graced our cover page. We present his thoughts and experiences on his success and hardships. Amin Mohammed, who is a multitalented persona, is featured as our personality of the month. We hope to present our dear readers with more such stories, perhaps we’ll be lucky enough to feature you and your achievements in here – we wish for the best. As Nepali New Year is this April 14, we wish all the 977ers a very Happy New Year 2071! Here’s us promising that in the upcoming issues, we’ll give more of their delicious and inspiring stories to you.
CHIEF ADVISOR Bimal K. Bhattarai COPY EDITORS Sachi Mulmi | Rubina Chitrakar EDITORIAL CO-ORDINATOR Reecha Dhital CONTRIBUTORS Mani Joshi Romu Shrestha Pradeep Chapagain Raktim Joshi Sanjeet K Shrestha Kgarira.com OZClick Photography Prizma Ghimire DESIGNER Lokesh Karna WEB DESIGNER Subash Basnet WEB DEVELOPER Nirmal Gyanwali PRODUCTION Nine Double Seven Pty. Ltd ABN 73 154 677 326 Suite 303, Level 3 468 George Street, Sydney NSW 2000
Please direct all the enquiries, comments, feedbacks, suggestions, advertising enquiries and all the enquiries to info@plus977. com.au or visit our official website www. plus977.com.au or call 0280 948 024. For details have our QR code scanning here
Kushal KC Founder/Publisher
On Cover
Sujan Pakhrin Tamang Text/story
Sachi Mulmi/Rubina Chitrakar Photography
Kewal Rai
Cover Designer
Lokesh Karna Stylist
©2014 |Nine Double Seven Pty Ltd. All rights reserved. | No parts may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher.
CONTENTS GADGET 11 HTC one M8 TREND 14 Autumn/Winter Wardrobe Essentials OPINION 16 Being Woman FITNESS 28 Why Hiring a Personal Trainer ? COMMUNITY 30 My Mom, My Super Women TRAVEL 34 Ghalegaun MOVIE 44 Raaghav SPORTS 44 Rhinos’ Historic Success
Plus 977
NEWSFEED
Nepal’s First Fitness Magazine Launched With a vision to make Nepal a Fitter place, Nepal`s first Fitness & bodybuilding Magazine “Fitness Nepal” is Launched in Nepal. Mr. Sanjeet K. Shrestha who is engaged in promoting fitness among Nepalese people
Purna Nepali Ekal Saanjh
the song and added life to it. Purna
Lovers of Nepali Folk music had an
a teacher of music, choreographer, and
unforgettable time twisting and turning
musical drama director who is admired
to the tunes played and sung by Purna
and loved by many for his extraordinary
Nepali, who performed for the audi-
singing and for bringing folk music in
ence and rejuvenated the lure of folk
center stage once again.
music one again. Favourites like “Kali Pani Dekhe”, “Jhandai Maile Sindoor
Nepali is not only a performer but also
Cricket craze at home
Ghaseko” and “Kalilo Tamalai Sodha
living around the world is an Australian Registered Exercise Professional, He is currently residing in Sydney, Australia and also writes a fitness column for
Ramalai” were played on the stage at
The Nepali Cricket Team have returned
Nepal Academy Hall on 21st of March
home with a warm welcome from
2014. Nepali said that the event was
thousands of fans and well-wishers
dedicated to Gopal Yonzan and Kalyan
at Tribhuvan International Airport. The
Sherchan for they are indispensible
team, which debuted in the ICC twen-
part of Nepali folk music. ‘Purna Nepali
ty-20 World Cup 2014 in Bangladesh,
Ekal Sanjh’ had been divided into
received a hero’s welcome with people
PLUS977 is the Chief Editor of “Fitness
segments that portrayed the diversity
thronging around the vehicle carrying
Nepal”.
of Nepalese culture, patriotism and
the players and craning their necks to
The magazine is a quarterly publication
unity. Some pieces were accompanied
get a glimpse of the idols who have
and is available at local GYMs in major
by dancers on stage who animated
made them proud. First time in history,
cities of Nepal. If anyone willing to find
Nepal played against well-established
further information about this maga-
teams and fared well enough to make
zine, please contact Sanjit at 0435 897
the world know that Nepalese are no
351.
less, marking the beginning of a long journey in cricket. For their remarkable performance, Kantipur Media Group (KMG) awarded them with a million rupees and Nepal Republic Media announced a prize of Rs.One Lakh for each of the team members. Paras
8
www.plus977.com.au
NEWSFEED
Khadka, the captain of the Nepalese team, on behalf of the whole team expressed his gratitude for the love and support they received from all Nepalese.
Plus 977
Newa-Night in Sydney
back home. The event featured various
Chinari Nepal in association with Guthi
Kritisha Gurung, K.V.Basnet, DKP, Raj
Australia organized a night dedicated to
K. Goswami, Rajesh K.C., In Bloom,
celebrating Newari culture, food, music
Srijan, Buddha Shankar, Ken P and
and more on 29th of March in Rockdale at
other local performers. The event also
Third Eye Bar and Bistro. The event was
featured a children fashion show and
first inaugurated by Narayan Pradhan,
musical drama performed by NepIndo
Indra Ban and Padam Shakya, and
Fusion. Held at Granville Town Hall,
was taken over by Sahana Bajracharya,
the tickets were priced at $20 (pre-sale
runner-up Miss Nepal 2010, as the host-
tickets) and $25 (door tickets), and the
ess of the night. The organisers say that
proceeds went for a noble cause.
singers and bands including Tarana,
the event was held to promote Newari culture in Sydney. The program featured Newari performances including songs, and dances by local artists and included
Digital Key Production TV
a full Newari dinner course at the end of the show. One other attraction in the
Sangeetik Jatra To celebrate the first ever Holi festival in Australia, Solangture organised Sangeetik Jatra in Melbourne and succeeded in creating a sizzle among the locals. The festival featured over fifteen well known artists including popular artists like The Shadowz band and Ramkrishna Dhakal from Nepal. The event also comprised of a section where it featured the Tomatina festival and there were musical performances from local Nepali bands and the ground
event was the movie ‘Muddha’ directed by Ratnakaji Maharjan. Many enthusiasts attended the event among whom were Sarun Tamrakar, lead singer of
Digital Key Production, which promised to provide audience with quality video and photos previously has upgraded its services. It will now grace you laptop or PC screens as an online television, where they will be putting up new enter-
The Uglyz band and Payal Shakya,
taining programs, musical shows, shows
former Miss Nepal. The ticket for the
with interviews of local Sydney artists.
event was priced at $40 including the
Along with that, they will introduce their
price for the dinner.
version of acoustic programs. They will be creating a show to bring Sydney’s
Musical Night in Sydney
talents under the limelight. They will also be bridging the gap between the audi-
For the purpose of educating Nepalese
ence and their favorite celebrities with
children, a musical night was held in
exclusive interviews. Thrilling off course
Sydney on 22nd March 2014 with the
road show with the host Soyam Katwal.
was rocked by over six DJ’s. Authentic
help of Sydney Artists and Volunteers
food stalls and game stalls attracted
Unite
people’s attention and the kids enjoyed
Committed Nepal (a non-profit organ-
themselves in rides and jumping castles.
isation registered both in Nepal and
To add a little buzz, a cultural beauty
the United States which works towards
was organised as well which drove the
promotion of education for marginalised
monotony away for good. The tickets
children in Nepal.) The fund raised from
were priced at $10 for all, but the event
the event was intended to provide educa-
also held at Sydney had tickets at $50
tion for the children of deceased immi-
and $25.
grant Nepalese workers who haven’t
supported
by
the
aid
from
They are further planning on bringing four different type of programs, for the sheer entertainment of the audience.
privileges of receiving proper education
www.plus977.com.au
9
Plus 977
GADGETS
An upgrade to Samsung Galaxy S4, Samsung Galaxy S5 is not much deviant from its predecessors. On the looks side, the back cover comes with a perforated pattern which comes in Charcoal Black, Shimmering White, Copper Gold and Electric Blue, calling it a “modern and glam” look. It is waterproof and dust resistant like the Sony Xperia Z2, and is operated by Android 4.4 Kitkat and runs on Quadcore Snapdragon 805, a 2.5 Ghz processor with 2GB RAM. Samsung’s TouchWiz interface makes it swift and easy to use. Standing 5.1 inches tall, it comes it a 1080p HD resolution. The additional feature includes a fingerprint scanner that can be used to unlock the device, pay online via Paypal and protect important documents. Also, it comes with a heart rate sensor to go with Samsung’s revised S Health app. The 16MP camera on the back comes with Fast Auto Focus which is claimed to be fastest among smartphones at 0.3 seconds, and the front has a 2.1MP camera. Another attraction is the accelerated networkthe phone uses both Wi-fi and LTE technology simultaneously for faster download and has MIMO (Multi input-Multi output) for faster Wi-fi connection.
10
www.plus977.com.au
GADGETS
Plus 977
One M8 Considered to be the biggest rival to Samsung Galaxy S5 (besides Sony Xperia Z2), HTC One M8 is the newest attraction in the market. With a sharp 5-inch SLCD screen, encased with a metallic cover available in three colours- gunmetal grey, artic silver and amber gold- this phone sure is a looker. When people are talking about how Galaxy S5 doesn’t catch the eye, One M8 stands as a gem. One addition to the HTC One M8 is the expandable storage which HTC One did not support. Running on HTC’s custom Android 4.4 with Sense 6, the set is chipped with 2.3Ghz Qualcomm Snapdragon 801 with 2GB RAM, much like its counterparts Galaxy S5 and Xperia Z2 (although Z2 has slightly but more RAM). BoomSound stereo speakers on the front of the phone add to the musical experience along with a dedicated sensor chip that powers the phone with double-tap awaking it from stand-by mode. Although equipped with only a 4MP camera, the set covers the lack of pixels with Ultrapixels, double sensors at the back and dual LED flash and is able to capture in-depth pictures. However, it does not boast of a certified dust and water resistant feature but all aspects considered, along with built-in apps, it brings a pretty good deal to users looking for an upgrade from HTC One.
Sony Xperia Z2 Competing with the Samsung Galaxy S5 for the attention from the prospective buyers is another set from the flagship of Sony, the Sony Xperia Z2. Releasing this April, Sony Xperia Z2 is the successor of Xperia Z1 but with more tricks in its bag. Equipped with the Qualcomm 801 Snapdragon processor, it is the first among smartphones to run on 2.3 Ghz Krait CPU with 3GB RAM. It’s an upgrade from Z1 that ran on 2.2 Ghz processor with 2GB RAM. Despite being water and dust resistant, it has a 20.7 MP camera with Exmor RS sensor and Bionz processing engine for that extra finesse while capturing images. Z2 also boasts its ability to record a 4K video that is, 3,840 x 2,160 pixels at 30fps.The 5.2 inch IPS Triluminos display claims to be the best in colour production with Sony X-Reality and Live Color LED Tech for production of real life colours. A little slimmer and lighter than the Z1, this set uses the up-to-date Android 4.4.2 Kitkat as its operating system. Addition of feature that accepts/rejects calls with hand gestures, the interface is easy to use for people not much acquainted with smartphones. Sony Xperia Z2 is all ready to race with the other contemporaries this April.
www.plus977.com.au
11
Plus 977
PERSONALITY OF THE MONTH
Amin Mohammed A
min Mohammed was born in Mugling Bazar in Chitwan, Nepal.
Like
hundreds
of
Nepalese, he came to Australia to make dreams come true in
March of 2007. Armed with the skill of painting and arts, he had already proven his talent back home. In an Inter School District Art Competition held in Chitwan, he represented Sun Rise English School in Bharatpur and was announced winner for his brilliant piece. In the Mr. Nepal Australia pageant held in 2012, he won the title ‘Mr. Nepal Australia Talent 2012’, when he painted an extraordinary painting in just 4 short minutes. The painting expressed that Lord Gautam Buddha was born in Nepal. Of his paintings, he says that he tries to give the flavour of M.F. Husain’s works, by using vibrant colors, as he finds Husain very much influential. Besides painting and sketching, he occupies himself with sculpturing, video editing, and graphic designing. His graphic designing
12
www.plus977.com.au
PERSONALITY OF THE MONTH
Plus 977
skills has made him involved in The AXE Band Sydney Concert, where he looked over the visual effect and graphic designs of the tour. He was also in the organizing committee of the concert that was a hit among the audience. Now, as the popular Nepali band, The Shadows, is preparing for its ‘Nepal Australia Tour 2014’ in March, he is has been actively contributing in this venture as well. He is involved in many community programs in Australia as well. His paintings have been exhibited in a few places in Australia. His paintings were exhibited along with works of other artists in the United Nepalese Art and Entertainment (UNAE) program that took place in Consulate-General of Nepal in New South Wales in 2012, which sought to open a library in Nepal by selling the artworks there. In Louis Vuitton Art exhibition supported by Sydney Children Hospital in Randwick, New South Wales, his paintings were put on sale and raised around AUS$ 786 for charity. A believer in altruism, he is volunteering in many commercial and non-commercial programs in Australia, as well as in Nepal. His love for the country exceeds the boundary, as he says that he would like to represent Nepal through his God-given gift in any context.
www.plus977.com.au
13
Plus 977
TREND
Autumn/Winter Wardrobe Essentials - by Romu Shrestha
W
inter is quite a challenge in fashion but with the right pieces it can be fun and interesting. In this post, I will cover top 10 winter wardrobe essentials (mostly timeless and few trendy) that will help you combat the cold winter months in a much more stylish manner. All these pieces are easily available online or in your nearest shopping centre and if you already have them in your closet, that’s even better.
1. Tweed dress: Nothing looks chicer or sleeker than a long coat over a nice dress. Go for floral dress in thick material like tweed to create a striking and fun look this fall.
2. Bright handbag:A bright handbag instantly lifts your mood and elevates your winter outfit which can otherwise be dull sometimes.
1
2 14
www.plus977.com.au
3. Leopard print Scarf: Leopard print is a season less classic; the easiest way to incorporate this print in your outfit is to wear it as an oversized scarf during the chillywinter days- it adds instant style without any fuss.
3
4. Statement Coat: Be it parkas, pea coat or trench coat, you definitely need a great coat to get through the bitter month of winter. Invest in a coat that’ll last you not only one season but few years. Try prints or colour this season to update your current collection
5.Beanie: Beanies are our saving grace during the cold weather days and for that bad hair day. For more trendier version try a netted beanie which is making a mark as the IT girl fashion accessory
TREND
Plus 977
6. Knee-High Boots: Boots that hit right at the knee have a timeless appeal, not to mention flatter most leg shapes. They look great tucked into skinny jeans and add a cool touch to tights and a dress.
5 4
7. Ankle boot: So versatile with its style, ankle boots have become the fashion must have. They are extremely comfortable, stylish and can transition from day to night or summer to winter.
6
7
8. Leather pants: A great pair of leather pants or leggings is so versatile that they have also become a fashion musthave .They add the perfect dose of edge a basic outfit needs to keep it looking modern and fashion forward.
10. Knit wear: Chunky and slouchy knits are always great for warming up during the cold weather; they are effortlessly chic and comfy.
9. Leather Biker Jacket: A leather jacket is surprisingly warm without being bulky. It’s the perfect transition outerwear that toughens up and gives an edgy appeal toany outfit.
8
9
10 www.plus977.com.au
15
Plus 977
OPINION
Being Woman -by Sichuma Malepati
?
Struggling for a identity or confused in her own identity 16
www.plus977.com.au
W
hen one of my friend asked me to write about being woman, I thought it would be easy enough. But once I actually started writing, I was confused - a question clicked in my mind about what to write. I couldn’t stop myself from thinking of men and an automatic reaction came: Why did I even think about men when I was supposed to write solely about woman? Is it because I think a woman is directly affected by a man? Yes, indeed. But with that answer, many instances of worldly events flooded within me, which I’m sure most of us are familiar with. Another thought came in my mind - shall I write about a woman who is supposed to leave a man smitten by her or a woman who is a perfect keeper of her man’s house? The one who is fighting for two square meals every day or the one who is sold every day in the name of fulfilling sexual desires of men? The one who just knows how to play with a man or the one who is struggling for an identity? The one who is confused about her own identity or a woman who is entangled amidst all the above things mentioned. I was simply confused.
“
OPINION
Plus 977
This society has always kept woman as a part who has more obligations in respect of family and relationships. Is that so really in reality?? Or just a tag given by society for a woman to remain with obligations of being a perfect woman; a woman who cheers up her man and her family, a woman who bears up everything ?? When I started writing about women; I was unsure whether to write for woman or against them because I needed to take a stand and present a point that made sense. After the dilemma, I came to realize that writing about woman is really a complex task since you are not writing about a single woman but half of the earth’s population. And the fact that they are fighting their personal battles in their own way every second complicates it further. Although I’m a woman myself, it took me nearly two days to come up with things I wanted to write about women. To be honest, having crossed many seasons of my life, I have encountered women from various courses of lives. Starting from my great grandmother, mother, sister, friends, a rural woman, a city woman to a renowned one respective of their ability to value their existence. May be, this could be one of the reasons why I got confused about what to focus on since every woman is fighting for her own problems in one or the other. Problems? And again, this leads me towards thinking that the problems related to women are varied according to the lives they have been living. Some have the problem related to their physical appearance, some can’t manage a single piece of bread to erase hunger, some with familial relationships, others with better work, yet others with exploitation (whether it be mental or physical). In short, various women from different walks of lives have been going through one or other kinds of problem and men cannot be excluded from these. Although I try
”
my level best just to focus on women, they are related to men in one or the other way - be it the good way or bad way. However, this leaves me with a question whether we are seeking an easy way out by always bringing men in the issues of female to make an excuse for what women call ‘suffering’. This society has always kept woman as a part, who has more obligations in respect of family and relationships. Is that really so in reality? Or just a tag given by society for a woman to remain within her obligations of being a perfect woman; a woman who cheers up her man and her family, a woman who bears everything? Hold on men! I am not taking your side. Is it just women who are taking this obligation in an exaggerated way? Since I am a woman, a daughter, a sister, a friend and a to-be wife of a future husband, I try to question myself about which category I belong to. Am I the one who exaggerates her obligations or the one who knows clearly what she is meant to be? But then what about obligations for men? Is it just that he has to earn a handsome amount of money and take care of his wife? The responsibility of male and female seem to be almost equal but why does this society show unclear bigger obligations of the female? Some obligations can’t be explained in words but the ones who bear it can only know it. Does this mean that being a woman I am exaggerating things which do not exist or is it just my doubts and insecurities? This still is an unanswered question to me.
www.plus977.com.au
17
Plus 977
FASHION
Swimwear
Season is upon us
- by Romu Shrestha
Finally, summer is here everyone so pack your warm clothes and out with floral dresses and SWIMWEAR. Like everyone, I have been swimming a lot in this hot weather. And one thing you realise when you swim often is that you need to buy new swimwear. Like everything else in fashion,when I went to buy a new swimwear I was flooded with choices like colour block, tiny prints, high waisted bikini, one piece , halter, belted, tankini and list can go on. Here are some beautiful swimwears you can find in the market.
18
www.plus977.com.au
FASHION
Plus 977
Going shopping for swimwear can be a bit daunting with so manyto choose from and trying all these variety can confuse you even more so here are few simple things to remember when you are shopping for swimwear. • • • • • • • • •
If you are tall and have a long torso, break it with horizontal stripes.Tankinis are great for long torsos. If you are short, throw your tankinis and go for bikini with details like ruffle or floras. If you have bigger bottom, higher cut bottomor bottom with skirt will do the trick. If you are pear shaped, colour blocking will make you look sexy. If you have tummy, hide with a suit that flatters and firms. If you have small bustgo for swimwear with push-up cups or pads inside.Ruffles or frills on the top will help as well. Darker colours are more slimming in general and dark bottoms are good, if you have hip issue. Don’t forget to mix and match to create different look. Don’t always go after trend but make sure you buy for the body shape and the one you are comfortable in so you will wear the swimwear more often. www.plus977.com.au
19
Plus 977
COVER STORY
Sujan Pakhrin Tamang 20
www.plus977.com.au
“
When many give up their dreams of being what they want to be, doing what they want to do and accept what fate has in store for them, Sujan Pakhrin Tamang has never been of the sort. Having his base in Rampur in Chitwan, he left all behind when he came to Sydney in 2008. It wasn’t easy, nor did he think it would be. But the lead singer of Samagra Band, he is reaping benefits that came out of the risks he took.
COVERSTORY COVER STORY
Plus 977
”
Formed in August of 2011, Samagra comprised of only Lyon Gurung, who is the lead guitarist of the band, besides Tamang. But almost two and a half years later, other band members have joined them: Kush Bhujel in Bass, Amrit Gurung in Rhythm, Suman Shrestha for Drums and Kamal Dhwoj Baniya as the Band Manager. Needless to say, it is a herculean task for Nepali musicians to form a band and make Nepali music outside their country as it takes a lot of patience and dedication, which the singer was not afraid of investing. Plus 977 talked to Tamang about his experience and thoughts.
www.plus977.com.au
23 21
Plus 977
COVER STORY Excerpts: Tell us about your experience of initial days in Sydney. I came to Sydney in 2008. At first nothing looked right. For many reasons, I had to keep on changing jobs, and it was really frustrating. I struggled a lot to settle properly in the new environment. Then I met Rajman Thakali, who is the director of Hima-Aus Educational Consultancy in Sydney. I started working in the consultancy from 2010. The day I met him was a blessed one. He is not only my boss, but also a guardian – more like my big brother. He has guided me in my troubled times and given constant support and suggestions in my endeavours. How did Samagra come into being? I had never dreamt of forming a band, but I had always hoped to be a singer. Singing was basically just a hobby for me then. When Lyon and I formed the band, he inspired me to take my hobby to the next level by being the lead singer. With Rajman dai supporting us, we made Samagra happen. What is the meaning of Samagra? Samagra means being whole, one and together in
Did you record any song while you were in Nepal? I kept singing only as a hobby while I was in Nepal, I
Nepali.
didn’t record any song there.
What kind of music do you make?
How was the experience of starting a band and launching an
We are a folk and alternative rock band.
album in Australia? Australia has been really helpful in this journey of ours.
Can you share your experience of being Samagra’s lead
As band members, there’s a good understanding between
singer? How is it like in the band?
one another, so I think that is a job done half easily. I can’t
I feel that I am still learning about singing. I don’t consid-
help thinking that had I been in Nepal, I wouldn’t have
er myself to be a good singer. However, it doesn’t mean that
achieved this much in such less time. However, I don’t know
I’m not trying. I might not be a gifted singer, but I believe in
how it is in Nepal as I never attempted to release an album
hard work and I don’t compromise with the effort my work needs. I am convinced that singing is what I am made for and I am so into singing that I think I can’t get rid of it now. Samagra is a dream come true. We’re young, busy with our lives and trying to walk together in this musical journey. What has Samagra been doing? We have performed many gigs in Sydney. After our first song was recorded with A# Sharp Studio in Sydney in 2012, we even had its video out in YouTube. The first video was released on October 28, 2013 by 4K4D Vids Studio. In March 22, we launched our first album.
22
www.plus977.com.au
there so I can’t really say. The people here have provided us with huge support to fuel our dreams. I am personally thankful to Lyon for being there. Music brought us together, we’ve been best mates for five years now and it’d be a folly to think that Samagra would have been formed without him. So yeah, I think that it has been a tremendous ride for me and the band. We didn’t feel much difficulty coming up with the album. What about the problems in the band? Well, all of us are working people, and we all have our personal obligations to look after. We have studies and work
COVER STORY
Plus 977
have been possible. All of this wouldn’t have any meaning. How is your personal life? Do you have other engagements besides music? I was tied to a wedlock with Jyoti in 2012 and I am a happy married man. She is very understanding and supportive of the works I do. She’s happy that I’m in a band and pursuing my dreams. Besides this, I work at Hima-Aus Consultancy. I take my work there very seriously. I worship my work and am very careful about it. Since it is about counselling students into taking a better decision, it’s not an easy thing. How do you manage time for all of this? I work on weekdays and keep the Saturdays and Sundays for my personal work and music. What are your future plans? Any new albums/ concert/ tour on the line? We just released an album, so we have not thought of another one yet. But we’re working on the music videos for to focus on. Lack of time is the main problem. But despite all the good and bad changes, Lyon and I are trying our best to take the band ahead. We consider this a part of our path and trying to make the most of it. Personally, what are the obstacles you had to face in the process of achieving your dreams? Like I said, I hadn’t seriously considered of taking music as my profession when I was in Nepal. But things changed when I came here. It made me realize what I wanted and that if I really wanted it, I just had to reach out and get it. Of course, my parents, ever caring and concerned for me, were skeptical of my choice. But that was only because they doubted I could get anywhere and sustain myself with music. It’s not like they don’t like this field that I’ve chosen, but now, they have called in their full support for me. Problems and obstacles will always be there in our life, but one has to learn to rise above it. Thankfully, I have great people surrounding me to guide me through a tough day. Rajman dai’s support is commendable; without him, I would not have been able to live a better life here. Without Lyon, Samagra wouldn’t have been possible. Without my wife, there would not be this comfortable life and without the constant backing of my friends and well-wishers, my success wouldn’t
the songs from the album and that will be keeping us busy in the near future. As far as concerts are concerned, we’re planning one on the August-September of this year. Where do you see Samagra in the next 5 years? Hopefully, in the hearts of the people, as a well-known Nepali band. What is your mantra for success? I believe that there is no substitute for hard work. What would you like to say to the Nepali youths who dream of having a singing career? Believe in your dreams and yourself. Running after success may not always be a best idea, rather, let it come to you, just keep at your work. Singing is great, so enjoy it as much as you learn from it. Your message for PLUS 977 readers? Samagra is a new name in Nepali music industry, we need a lot of your love and support. So keep on listening to us. We will try our best to please you with our songs. Keep on reading PLUS 977 for more news about us.
www.plus977.com.au
23
Plus 977
YOUTH
Teenage Crisis - Prizma Ghimire
T
his is a very personal story, but not very person-
would get red, and I’d let out choking breaths. As much pain
al that you wouldn’t want to read or share…
as I was in, I couldn’t stop. Other days, I would be so sad that
I’m 18 years old, and honestly, I feel like I
have had more problems than any other teen I
20
I would listen to music for hours and wonder what it would be like if I just left. If I just kept walking and didn’t turn back.
know. I have no problem speaking my mind; I’m
I would say three things always kept me away from
very blunt and honest. Not to mention sarcastic. I care a little
what I wanted to do, or prolonged my recovery. (1) I was fat,
too much, but act like I don’t. Sometimes, I feel so much has
like I was a 60 kg miniature monster (2) That I got abused
happened to me in 18 years that some days I wonder how I
by my PT teacher when I couldn’t run and (3) I failed every
got through it all on my own.
subject I studied except for Maths (cause my teacher would
It all started in Grade 4. I was whipped with skipping
understand even if I simply managed to pass). At that point,
ropes and called fat by the kids at my school and I didn’t have
I thought keeping my lips pursed was something I could do
any guts to go to the teachers and complain. Honestly, they
best.
stood around, watch me get beaten up and laugh. Since then,
There were times where I wanted to end everything,
I knew, I was not a good looking teenager with confidence
but knew that’d never happen. I wanted to take my life, but
issues.
I was afraid. Things got really worse during my tenth grade.
When I was sixteen, my emotions got the better of me,
There were expectations from everywhere. Friends, Family
especially anger and sadness. And I never knew where any
and what not. Fear kept me reserved and my emotions killed
of it came from. But I always seemed to blame the past. When
me every day, and I found a different outlet. My mind would
I was angry, I’d cry and punch anything in reach. My face
tell me, “Cuts leave scars, but bruises fade,” and I used that
www.plus977.com.au
to my advantage. I always wore sweatshirts, so no one ever saw my red and bruised arms. No one saw the bite marks. And that was okay. Or, at least my mind let me think so. The one thing I regret is not getting help when I should have. So, that was person X. And now, he likes to call himself a ‘New X’. Even with the worst of times, he understood life. And with all the courage he had he managed to put all his miseries to an ‘X’ end. As messed up as he was, his memories and beliefs held him through and brought him as a different person in the ‘light’. Sure, they made him sad, but they reminded him that life isn’t always bad. Sometimes everything is okay, and sometimes it’s not. He takes those times when he couldn’t tell what was happening in life, was just a bump in the road. Later, his friends and writing about his issues (afterwards: to
Experienced home loan expert in your Town.
his parents and teachers) made him a lot stronger than he actually was. Friends distracted him and made him smile, something he didn’t get when he was younger. And by writing, he was venting. That was a great thing he did there. Remember, no matter how hard you’re going through times, there is something or someone out there to help you. It can be a hobby or a friend, anything. Even when you’re at your lowest, life isn’t over; you can always make it better. And yes, things do get better. As the saying goes, “If it’s not better, it’s not the end.” And the fact is, we are so hesitant to speak about our miseries or we think people around us aren’t reliable enough to share the stories with. The only thing you will come out of such bullying and harassment is by talking or sharing with someone. Your parents or teachers or friends or whoever you feel comfortable with. Even though X has found happiness, he is still working at this on his own, four years passed, and its just now, that he found comfortable to
Dila Kharel is your home loan expert with a wide range of knowledge to understand your needs. He will support you in any areas of your property needs. He owns his business Innovative Associates, where he offers: Ÿ Diversified home loans. Ÿ Highly focussed and dedicated financial products. Ÿ Personalized solution to your problems.
Meet him today for the best deal Dila Kharel
Accountant & Authorized Mortgage Consultant
4/8-14 Swan St Revesby NSW 2212
Say Hello On: 0434 392 347/02 9261 4378 E: info@innovativeassociates.com.au W: www.innovativeassociates.com.au
share it with people around him, (of course, with an opportunity to let me develop it as an article as well). His emotions don’t get the best of him anymore. They’re not gone; they’ve just…toned down, and he can control it now.
Fellow-Member
- We deal with more than 30 lenders. - All applications for loans are subject to the Innovative Associates business policies & criteria
Plus 977
FITNESS
Why Hiring a Personal Trainer ?
E
very body is a unique body; every mind is a unique mind. Not everybody has same lifestyle or the same culture, nor everybody fits in the same box of fitness. You have a similar goal doesn’t necessarily mean you have to follow your friend’s exercise routines and diet plans. You can follow but you want the results, right? It may not work for you and probably be hindering from the results and might risk yourself from the possible injuries because you might have a different body structure, different fitness level and a different lifestyle than your friend has. Personal trainer fits in here to guide you through your goals achievement. You might think that it will cost you a fortune to hire a personal trainer. But if you hire one, you’ll make a fortune out of it. You’ll save a lot in the long run. You need a personal trainer if: You are a Beginner: As a beginner, it could be a daunting experience to start exercising whether outdoors, at home or in the gym. You might not know where you stand on your fitness level and you may not know where to start and how to start. You can find plenty of workout charts in the web but may not be specifically designed for your body type. An experienced
28
www.plus977.com.au
Suman Limbu Sydney, Australia On his experience of hiring a Personal Trainer For 2 years, I had been training on my own. The past few months, however, no matter how hard I trained, I didn’t get any results. I had reached the plateau. My workout routine was boring. I needed some change and motivation to go to next level. Then I met Sanjeet Shrestha. He is a professional trainer who knew about my situation, and helped me achieve my goal. He tweaked my workout routine and added many variations like superset, tri-sets, giant sets, and many more. He also looked at my eating habits and advised me to make some changes to create more effective meal plan. Following his customized workout routines and meal plans, within 4 weeks, I could see the results. My body fat was reducing, and I was more ripped than ever. Personally, I found him amiable and helpful. He has immense knowledge about fitness. Not only does he help to achieve your fitness goals, but also brings a fresh perspective and new ideas to challenge yourself, and to motivate both your body and your mind. I would highly recommend him to anyone – no matter what level you are in, you will achieve much with Sanjeet’s help!
personal trainer is accountable for tailoring your training program according to your physical limitations and goals. I’m sure you do not want the adverse effect of training by following the bad techniques by yourself because it’s very rare that someone corrects the incorrect form that your executing in the gym. You want to workout at home: Not all people like the gym environment but still want to lose fats, gain strength or improve cardiovascular fitness from home. You may not know what equipment you should use or you may not know how to operate the equipment you have for various exercises. An experienced trainer can monitor the training equipment you have at your home and figure out the best possible exercises to perform with it. The trainer even brings the required equipment with him/her that helps to achieve your fitness goals. He/she can also suggest you the best equipment you can have at home for you to keep going. You don’t see any result: You may not see any results for a long time of training and still don’t know what is going wrong. Looking at your current program, eating habits and various fitness tests, a
FITNESS
personal trainer will help you to find out why it’s not working. He can also design more effective programs for you. A personal trainer can set you realistic and achievable goals while giving you every support and motivation that you need to achieve it.
your dream physique. You’ll definitely be spending more money without getting a sign. If you have never consulted with a personal trainer before, it’s time to do it now. Fitness has become so accessible now than ever. Save your time and money and get the best physique you dreamt for.
You have medical conditions: You need to be extra cautious if you have medical conditions like diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, cholesterol, osteoarthritis, etc. and you have never exercised before. Your main objective here becomes your health and improving your fitness level. Be cautious, you might be risking yourself by performing unmonitored training. A personal trainer can lead you to the right exercise choices as per your conditions by working closely with your doctors and the therapists.
Choosing the best personal trainer could be another challenge: Look for a qualified PT with reasonable years of experience in the fitness industry. Ask your friend about his/her trainer and listen to the success stories. If you are from different cultural background, finding a PT that shares the similar culture and language will be very advantageous. A PT must motivate you in every steps of your session. A good PT is always focused on you during your session. A good PT always listens to you very carefully about your goals and other requirements.
Your fitness goals are always precious to you and you’ll do whatever it takes to accomplish them. You need to be careful while reaching your goals where you shouldn’t have any adverse effects of your trainings and diet. We all know time is money. So, depending much on guess works, trying this or that without knowing whether it will work or not may take you a longer than you think to have
Plus 977
Sanjeet K Shrestha Registered Exercise Professional Sydney, Australia
www.plus977.com.au
29
Plus 977
My Mum My Superwoman COMMUNITY
-By Mani Joshi
W
hen I was young, I didn’t realise that my mum is a super woman. But now I know that my mum is my hero and my treasure, she is like a prize I won the day
I was born. My mum had a normal upbringing but she started working at a very young age. She worked as a teacher and has continued working for most of her life. When she got married to my dad, as in most of the households in Nepal, being a daughter in law, she had to cook, clean and look after the family and at the same time went to her 9-5 job six days a week. After doing her daily chores, making sure we had breakfast, our lunch packed and everyone else is fed, she would go to the school to teach. She usually arrived home late in the afternoon or before dawn and would prepare our food and take care of our needs. I can’t remember her complaining about anything but her willingness and perseverance to help our family and trying to give me and my brother a better life. I didn’t really understand her sacrifices and to make it worse I used to complain about the food we ate, clothes we wore, toys I owned and other things. It all seemed normal to me as a kid because most of the women around me were doing the same thing while most of the men had a job or doing business and were served hot meal three times a day without needing to lift a finger in the kitchen. As I became more aware of the society in Nepal, I became aware of gender biases as well. I always asked questions if someone treated me different from my brother and I used to hate the answer when they gave, “It is because you are a girl”, “Girls should not be saying this,” “Girls should not be doing this,” “Girls should be learning how to cook.”
30
www.plus977.com.au
The amazing thing is, most of the times, these words came from the mouth of women like grandma or aunties rather than men. As a child, I never understood why I had to be different from my brother. I am the same in every way I can think of to my brother so why I can’t do certain things or why I have to do certain things. Watching Hollywood movies, I was happy to know that at least in some parts of the world, women are treated better and equal and this made me dream of running away from Nepal and finding a future in a country where men and women are equal and gender bias doesn’t exist.
COMMUNITY
When my destiny took me to Australia for further studies, I knew in my mind that I was going to a developed country. I was sure my future was going to be much better than in Nepal. I had big dreams and was happy that I was taking the first step towards my dream. Out of many things, I left behind in Nepal; I thought one of them would be gender bias. Living in Sydney for a while made me realise I was wrong. Like my mum, most of the women here were doing their duty at home as well as at work. Only few lucky ones had husbands who would help a lot in the kitchen and with kids but most women were doing 80% of the house chores while their partners were resting, as they were tired from a hard day’s at work. Even though western society looks like they have no gender biases in movies I soon realised that the wives and mothers in Australia were going through the same story that my mum was going through in Kathmandu. Only a few lucky ones were telling me a different story but most of them had to look after both household chores and work. My dream of living in a gender equal society was scattering into a million pieces. I realised only when I started working and studying at the same time, how hard life can be.The hardships I went through as a student in Sydney made me think how great my mum is and how she is a super woman, able to do all that for us. My mum deserves to be cherished because she taught us the values in life that inspired us to live wisely. She showed us how to be strong in times of weaknesses. She
Plus 977
took care of us, fed us and did everything for us without complaining whether she was tired or sick. I feel bad that I used to complain about her food and the things she did or did not do. Now I am a wife I understand her situation much better. I feel blessed to have an understanding husband but still feel a need to take care of many things in our house. Call it a woman’s instinct but there are many things I feel I need to do to make sure our house runs smoothly and it is not an easy job.Right now, we are only two adults in the house and I can’t imagine how life going to be when we will have a couple of kids running around. After a hard day at work, some days I feel exhausted and tired and think may be that’s how my mother felt as well when she was raising us. There are days I don’t want to go to the kitchen and then I remember my mum and how she handled two hungry screaming kids when she got back from work. It wasn’t easy for her and I can feel in my heart what she must have felt then. I know now that I should have appreciated all her efforts and all the sacrifices she made. She deserves to be loved and treated special. She is a superwoman. One day when I am going to be a mum, I hope to become a strong woman like my mum. I salute women like my mother who have paved the way for me as not only a woman and wife but something as a mother and super woman to love and give with a big smile.
www.plus977.com.au
31
DEAL $20.00
DEAL *Conditions Apply
$24.00
1
DESERT:
2
ENTRÉE:
MAIN:
DESERT:
3
• Goat/Chicken Curry • Mix Vegetable/ Palak Paneer • Tomato Aachar • Rice and Naan
• Sekuwa • Chicken Tikka • Aaalu Ko Aachar • Bhatmash Sadheko/ Pakora
ENTRÉE:
Palace
Authentic Nepalese Cuisine
• Gulab Jamun
• Goat curry • Yoghurt with • Chicken curry Gulab Jamun • Mix Veg/Palak Paneer/ Aalu Bodi Taama • Tomato Aachar • Rice and Naan
• Choice of two vegetables entrees • Choice of two non- veg entrees • Furandaana • Green Salad • Chicken Nuggets for Kids
MAIN:
• Choice of two non-veg curries • Choice of two veg curries • Tomato Aachar • Rice and Naan
Sandip Lamichhane Mob: 0413 651 929
DESERT:
• Gulab Jamun with yoghurt • Vanilla Ice cream for kids
DESIGN l VERtEX l 8002 4724
$16.00
MAIN:
• Sekuwa/Tikka • Aalu Ko Aachar • Green Salad • Furandaana
Contact:
DEAL
ENTRÉE:
Gladesville 146 Victoria Road Gladesville NSW 2111 Tel: 02 9817 0238, Fax: 02 9816 1324 Concord 217 Concord Road North Strathfield NSW 2137 Tel: 9736 3414, Fax: 02 9743 0695 info@gorkhapalace.com.au www.gorkhapalace.com.au
NOTE: $1 per head for unlimited soft drinks, $1 per head for formal set up
GET YOUR TAX REFUND
$49 From
FOR STUDENT
BACKPACKERS*
CITY ADDRESS Suite 303, Level 3, 468 George Street, Sydney NSW 2000 Opp to QVB & Above LOWES | Tel: 02 8094 8024 | city@ebconsultants.com.au BUSINESS CONSULTANTS • ACCOUNTING • TAXATION • BUSINESS ADVISOR
PARAMATTA Suite 69 Level 2, 48-50 George Street, Parramatta NSW 2150 | Tel: 02 8840 9337 Fax: 02 8076 0442 | info@ebconsultants.com.au *Conditions May Apply
Plus 977
TRAVEL
GHALE G M
ost Kathmandu valley denizens
window. The beautiful yet terrifying sight of the hills
would agree that driving out of
and the blue sky gave us the shivers. But slowly, the
there is an ultimate stress release.
mountain ranges greeted us. Away from the bustling
First it’s the dust and dirt, the crowd,
capital, no smoke or dust would hide such splendor
the concrete jungle and then you
from us. It was the Manaslu range that was there to
are slowly pulled away from it into nature’s lap, with
keep our spirit moving, and we were much thankful
greenery that you only get to hear of back home.
for it.
On top of that, being a first timer to step outside the hustle and bustle, my expectations were pretty high.
It would have been quite difficult had we chosen to hike our way up, as time wasn’t in our favor. Even
As I, along with a dozen friends and a couple of
via vehicle, the 32 kilometers from Besisahar need-
teachers left for a college trip at the eve of gradua-
ed 3 hours to land us there. Halfway across, we
tion, the prospect of a new place had us all psyched.
stopped for a bit at a field for the sunset. As those of
Not exactly used to long travels, I was afraid that I
us possessing camera started clicking, we were in a
would suffer from motion sickness, but luckily, this
dilemma – our sights got greedy.
excursion took place smoothly. We zoomed past the roller coasting landscapes, to travel around 6 hours
It was already night when we got there, but the
through Dhading, Tanahun, into Lamjumg to finally
warm welcome of tika and flowers left us rejuvenat-
our destination, Ghalegaun.
ed. Nothing but the starry sky above and the sound of the unseen creatures made me feel excited.
It was around 3 in the afternoon when we reached Besisahar from where we were to move
Populated mainly by the Gurung people, they
ahead for Ghalegaun. As the roads were compro-
had a system of home-stay, of which we were grate-
mised – bumpy and rocky – we were told that we
ful and exultant witnesses. As our host family led
had to hire jeeps. We split into two groups and held
us to our respective rooms, the coziness made us
our breath as it, too, sped up towards the narrow and
feel like nothing from home was missing. After being
chancy roads.
served to a local snack, jhilke, and the scrumptious meal, we gathered around for a little bit of bon-fire.
We slowly gained height and it became a horrendous task for us to look out of the vehicle’s
34
www.plus977.com.au
The quiet Ghale night had all of us visitors at ease.
GAUN
- by Sachi Mulmi
At an approximately 2100m, watching the sunrise from a nearby hill from where we stayed would have been wonderful. But the fatigue from the previous day got the better of me. However, each moment there presented a visual treat to our eyes. As we climbed the hill that one can see upon entering the village, the mountain ranges in the east and north had us at the edge of our minds, no kidding. The layers and layers of mountain silhouettes and the rays of sunlight it threw across the valley painted a beautiful and peaceful picture. We descended to take a look at the tea gardens. As we moved further, we climbed to a small hill that had a temple built to commemorate the memory of old Ghale Kings. The sight from there is incomparable; it was as if the hills and mountains were competing with each other to present the best view. I wasn’t quite ready to go away from there! After a quick meal, our stay in Ghalegaun was coming to an end. We were sent off in the same way we were welcomed – with tika and marigold garlands that would later have its uses. As I descended the trail from where we were to walk till Besisahar, I satisfied myself with a last look, just to make sure that the dangerous descend ahead wouldn’t drive the vision away. A 7 hour hike downhill finally brought us to Besisahar that evening. I was exhausted, but it was all worth it.
www.plus977.com.au
35
Plus 977
FACTS
The Mystery of Our Existence -by Shiva Neupane
W
e are mystically designed but we don’t
We can’t discover another civilization in the Universe
have even the slightest of idea as to
because the time we need to travel there is huge, and that
why we are here on this planet for
time is likely to be the age of those planets and civilizations.
such a short time. What is the reason
I would like to put it in this way – let’s suppose there is an
for being what we are today? What is
alien-civilization at the edge of the Universe. For that civili-
the mechanism that holds the raison d’être of our life in the
zation to discover earth, it will perhaps take billions of years,
suburb of this endless Universe?
and although they would be curious about our existence in
Are there any sophisticated intelligent beings in other
this planet, earth might have come to an end in time erasing
remote suburbs of the Universe? How is the law of nature
every shred of evidence about our existence after billions of
in the alien world justifying their deaths and births? It is an inquisitive question for us: for example, we know that the fly-ant of Nepal may not see the fly-ant of Australia, though they both exist. The fly-ant has few minutes to live its life. After a few minutes, it tears its wings by hovering around the electric bulb. How long does it take for that fly-ant to come down to Australia? Around twelve hours, if it boards on a plane. But still it can’t see the other fly-ant in Australia because they both die in that short time. There might be millions of habitats at the far corner of the Universe akin to ours on mother earth. However, we don’t
36
years. The ancient history of earth and its location in this Universe may erode owing to cosmological upheaval. Our civilization may float as a tiny speck of dust and dissolve in this vast Universe. Therefore, with the cosmological-cataclysmic erosion, the ingredients of universe such as stars, earth, planets, moon, milky-ways, and so on, get fragmented in an elusive fashion about which we have no clue in fact. In this unfathomable universe we have been sprouting just for a while, but we don’t realize that for the time we are
have any means to reach out to that place. We need to have
here is divine and invaluable. We are designed in an evasive
an interstellar spacecraft for space-voyage and interplan-
way, hence, the formula of our existence is secretly coded.
etary-peregrination and that interstellar spacecraft needs
We have been designed by the dint of this code and have
to be way faster than the speed of light which is, indeed, a
our soul programmed for heading the vehicle that is our body.
farfetched notion.
Thus, the making of a journey from life to death by the ultimate
www.plus977.com.au
FACTS
The fly-ant of Nepal may not see the fly-ant of Australia, though they both exist. The fly-ant has few minutes to live its life. After a few minutes, it tears its wings by hovering around the electric bulb. How long does it take for that fly-ant to come down to Australia? Around twelve hours, if it boards on a plane. But still it can’t see the other fly-ant in Australia because they both die in that short time.
force is mystically problematic and this preordained grand design of our life seems nothing other than a blot from the blue. It is quintessentially and metaphysically perplexing topic that if the designer has to destroy us then why does he waste his labour in creating us in the first place? The more we talk about the mystery of life, the more we get into this trap of never ending diversity of mystical-truths. The beauty of life can be achieved when you begin to understand the vicissitude of truth. You need to rejoice your life with the utmost happiness. The mystery is the ultimate jewel of your mind; you have to love it for enhancing your joy and happiness. The future of reason is locked up by the mystery. Therefore, the mystery is actually just a foretaste for our relentlessly hungry mind. We should not get ourselves wrong-footed by not understanding the core principles of life. The failure to understand the central meaning of life is what leads to the intellectual-suicide in the first place. The writer has also penned four books, including his upcoming dictionary ‘Falang English Dictionary.’ He can be contacted at shiva_neupane01@hotmail.com
Plus 977
Plus 977
FEATURED
tkfFO{x?sf] zx/ l;8\gLdf klxnf] g]kfnL ;'g–rf“bLsf] k;n v'Ng nfu]sf] ;x{if hfgsf/L u/fpFb 5f}+ . t n ou c s l ge Di Al ar % h n 0 C o 1 g in k a M
. gfx? x u – s u/ ;'gx? . / l ? k x D f sf kf/ ;]j xfd|ffw'lgs tyf tyf x·s· lsga]r . c +ufk'/ fk6\6f tyf 6]8 . ; l , { LG5 . f/]G a|'gO gf ;6\6 / o u U f / d x of u/ u fTds d'No /–uxgf t |w u k|ltZk df]lhdsf] a c8{/ free street parking available for one hour.
*yk hfgsf/Lsf] nfuL xfdLnfO{ ;Dks{ ug{'xf]nf .
Pokhara Jewellary Sydney
48 Bay Street, Rockdale NSW 2216, Sydney PHONE NUMBER: +61 406599285/432656991 FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/pokhara.jewelleries
FEATURED
Plus 977
Plus 977
FICTION
The Eternal Temporal Sleep Dearest Mama,
- by Sujata Aryal
Thanks for the jar of pickles, ma. I know it must have been crazy for you to drive down all the way into town to mail them up here. But you would have been into town for that dentist appointment anyway right? Still hope it ain’t was trouble for you. And how is Papa? He never writes back, why, is he busy? The farm work must keep him so. I have always said some extra hired help worth its good money. But does he listen to me? Oh no, god forbid! The ex-marine to listen to his good ol’ daughter! Anyway my love to him and Pachichi. Wait, is Pachichi alive though? She is hitting on some rough years poor girl. A dog can live only so many years. Mama, do send a picture up to me while answering this one, will ya? I mean all I see here are here a moose there a moose! The animals are docile enough, but just another reminder of what all I miss out here. Look at me blabbing! But you will not believe what is happening round here. Do you remember how I had mailed you last? You know how I could not sleep two nights in a worry. Had me worried to tell you the truth, going bonkers for a while. Cruising on insomnia, the medic book said. But ho lo! Apparently the whole bloody town hadn’t been able to sleep! That was last week, now it’s been 12 days and my word, mother, the god-forsaken people of this town haven’t slept a wink! We just wait for sleep but no, it doesn’t happen. So we are just here, sitting, walking around 24 hours a day. The whole place has shaken, really. So Shawna, you remember her? I told you of her this tall blonde, with much too many freckles on her face for me to ever understand why Jim liked her. You remember Jim? The cute country British boy? Yeah they broke up. Yup, the whole drama of not sleeping did it. Well so Shawna moved in with Jim, the big tiff, I tell you, like the world is her parade or something. So they are living in, and bam there is no sleep. Apparently the bickering came along followed by non-stop quarrelling. Some distance is necessary I guess for love to grow, with most a times the distance being facing the two sides of the bed in slumber. With couples having nothing to do all night, end up judging each other a little too much it seems! Oh boy, and you complain I am single too long! Are you wondering why I write to you so frequently? I do it because I love you so much, and well, also because there is nothing else much to do. There are only so many hours that you can watch TV. And my, with the reception here, you might as well stare out of the window. Did I tell you of this computer they installed? This box, a magic tool they are saying! Uff, magic and boxes! Looks like another commercial television scam campaign. Was thinking of going downtown to check it out, might as well, with the nights just lazing around, one cannot find ways to pass time. Mama, it’s like, I go to work, and there I am fluttering about the school, one class to the next! The drama! The children! Why would the American school union send me here? Transfer me here? For my good work? I had nothing to do with that bloody child molester.
40
www.plus977.com.au
FICTION
Plus 977
They said it was a service, but I know, this is just a punishment for a crime I had no part in. I can’t wait for this 2 year transfer to be over in this hellhole! I will be back home! Soon, I promise. How did I get here? Oh yes, so I work all day at the school, and come back home. I cook, I eat, I go for a walk, and I come home. And that’s it. Its 11. And there I sit, for I know the sleep won’t come. The day beginning at 9 the next morning, what am I to do all night? The first few nights I went clubbing. But well the scene here is gross, the men are all red-heads. I prefer blondes. And they have nothing save gallons of ale as liquor. Ale! I know, it’s like the 13th century in here. Instead I sit reading and sewing. I finished the Bronte sisters. Am thinking of penning some new stuff myself. Let’s see, if the sleep ain’t here for the next few days. The scientist on Foray television, the local network here, explained I quote “has some connection with the recent crop of sunspots. The spot gives rise to solar flares, which creates ripples in the solar wind, which in turn induce changes in the earth’s magnetic field. This generates current in rock formation with high concentrations of iron, which could be inducing a secondary magnetic field, which could be affecting the brain waves of every man , woman and child in the greater Hawcross area.” Lots of scientific mumbo jumbo for my liking, but well the town has gone all touristy lately. I just moonlight the eateries, a small place called, “Mac: the happy burger!” I mean with an exclamation mark, it’s still like the 60’s in here! Anyway, so they had to hire extra cooks and waiters to operate with the ongoing crowd into the place 24-7. I guess if you stay awake a lot, you eat a lot. I myself, have put on some healthy pounds. The food consumption here is like never before, people eating and merry making all night. It’s like a festival in here, to tell you. Endless summer nights! Oh Jesus! I have ranted on it seems, I must stop! Mama, do keep tuning that television set, your infamous daughter might pop up in some of this famous city’s glamour. As sleeping out of option here, one just has to sit and wait for your muscles to relax. It works, you just lie there, or sit and wallah! You are fresh as a bird. But makes me wonder, if the brain might need some rest? My brain has been active for the last 12 days (and nights), I worry sometimes. But well I guess, all is well. Anyway… Hey, did Amy say she was stopping around the farm this fall? Wow, I wonder how she looks after having that giant baby head of hers. Keep me posting, mama. I miss you so much. And I will be home soon. (Just about a year and half to go). Love to Papa. And tell Amy I will call her soon, if she rings you up, will you? Look at me making you read this length with those awful eyes of yours.I miss you. In pajamas, Charlotte. (P.S. It’s like, why do I bother with pajamas, there is no sleep anyway. Might as well keep the bed on sale.) (Charlotte was the resident of a small Hawcross town, located in the island of Gausky, somewhere in the Arctic Circle. In the summer of 1981, this town was sleepless for 30 day. The moment the flares stopped (it was said), that the whole place fell into instant sleep. People slept right on the floor, on the streets. This went for 30 days (and nights) straight. What nature gives, is what nature takes. The town did wake up, but slept through most of the filming of the movie” The Aftermath: Sleepless” based on the jaw-breaking event. The movie is an Oscar contender for the year. This letter proves a value added to its current publicity campaign. Charlotte lives with her husband and kid in the suburbs of Chicago. Her mother passed away earlier in the year. And Pachichi is still alive.)
www.plus977.com.au
41
Plus 977
DO IT YOURSELF
Colorful Candles from Crayon -by Reecha Dhital
H
ow many of you have those tiny, broken or lost crayons that presently have no use and are wondering when in future you might need them????. Even more how many of you have kids and have pretty much crayons in every nooks and corner of your house. Well THINK NO MORE I have brought you the idea that can save your place from looking complete mess to a wonderful setting.
Things required 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
Wax Old wax crayons Old container to pour in the wax Thread for the cancel Scissors Pot and a bowl to heat candles/ microwave
Steps Firstly heat the pot and place another bowel on the water. This gives enough heat to wax and crayons to melt and also minimise dilution. It is essential to heat the colours separately as we are making the colour block candle. You can also heat it in the microwave in a paper glass one for each colour. In the mean time get your stuffs ready for the candle. Get your glass bowel or mug ready with string till the bottom. Also remember to tie the string in a knife or a stick and place it in middle of the container. After the container is ready pour in the melted wax one after another giving enough time to set before keeping the next colour. If you keep it all together at once its going to be a mixture. You can either keep the straight one after another for a rainbow effect or slant and tilt the container for a graphic look. There you go you now have your very own colour block candle.
42
www.plus977.com.au
Plus 977
MOVIE
Raghav Know the Director: Bhupendra Bhattarai is an independent film maker, having written and directed short movie ‘Siddhartha’ and ‘Eka Deshma’, based in United States. Actors: Shibir Pokharel, Asmita Dhakal, Cait Brasel, Ashishma Nakarmi, Rocken Byanjankar Genre: Romantic/Drama Something about Nepali movies has changed drastically that makes the potential viewer hopeful about them. Raaghav is one such movie, which has set Nepali film fans into hoping high. It is a romantic drama, dealing with contemporary issues of the young people in the country and out of it. The title character, Raaghav, is a guy, living in Australia to eke out a living. With a girlfriend back home and the constant marriage proposals threatening her, he has to deal with a heartbreak and a big dilemma when she is arranged to be married. And what heals that heartbreak? The film is about the character’s life and relationship, and the transcontinental love affair. Shot in the charming backdrop of Nepal and Australia, it is set for a worldwide release on April 25, including Australia. Directed and written by Bhupendra Bhattarai, the film is presented by Raj Ballav Koirala films in association with Planet3Films and IDEAS and IMAGES. With its title tracks already out and shared in the social networking sites like crazy, this sure is one movie to look out for.
44
www.plus977.com.au
MOVIE
Plus 977
Rio 2
About the Director: Carlos Saldanha is a Brazilian director, who has directed animated films like the Ice Age series and Rio. Voiceovers:Anne Hathaway, Jesse Eisenberg, Leslie Mann, Bruno Mars, Jemaine Clement, George Lopez, Jamie Foxx, Will.I.Am Genre:Animation/ Adventure/ Comedy Remember Rio? Back in 2011, it spurted a birdy frenzy among men and women alike. In 2014, Rio is back with a sequel that promises a greater story and action. Actors Jesse Eisenberg, Anne Hathaway, Leslie Mann among others will be back to reprise their old roles as Tyler, Jewel and Linda respectively. What’s new is the adventure Tyler and Jewel will be taking up with their three kids far away from their home in Rio de Janeiro. The people…er, birds they encounter are new and bring in a new kind of crazy. And perhaps they’ll have a face-off with an old enemy? Who knows? The Amazon trip has always proved to be exciting no matter who takes it, undoubtedly, this voyage of the family of the Spix Macaws would be no less adventurous ! This film hopes to deliver late screenwriter Don Rhymer’s last works, who died on November 28, 2012, and who also wrote ‘Rio’. Directed by Carlos Saldanha and under the production of Blue Sky Studios, it hit theatres on March 20.
Revolver Rani About the Director:Sai Kabir is a writer and director, having directed films like ‘Kismat Konnection,’ ‘Lamhaa: The Untold Story of Kashmir’ and ‘Chatur Singh Two Star’ Actors: Kangana Ranaut, Vir Das, Piyush Mishra, Zakir Hussain, Pankaj Saraswat, Salim Javed, Zafar Khan Genre: Action/ Drama With Bollywood producing women centric films one after another (Gulaab Gang, Queen, watched that?), more are to follow suit. Kangana Ranaut is seen portraying Alka Singh a powerful woman, a leader, and her extremes when it comes to the ones she love. Set in a political backdrop, this film is about politics and all the drama related to it. Singh loses election to the place she previously had her strong grip on. Now that she’s lost, however, the opposition wants to make the vengeance sweeter, by harming Rohan Mehra, a Bollywood icon and her love interest. This unusual story tries to make a point about power and love, though in what way, the viewers have to find out for themselves. Produced by Raju Chadha and Crouching Tiger Motion Pictures and directed by Sai Kabir, this film is slated to be released on April 25.
Kabaddi About the Director:Nischal Basnet, writer and director, and recently of ‘Loot’ fame, has tried acting this time around. Actors: Dayahang Rai, Nischal Basnet, Rishma Gurung, Rajan Khatiwada Genre: Romantic Comedy Highly acclaimed for his impeccable acting, Dayahang Rai is one of those actors who is frequenting the list of successful Nepali movies. With his humor inciting dialogues and expressions, he is back, yet again, to make the audience laugh and cry with this new venture, called Kabaddi – a story of a fight for Maiya’s love. Kaji, played by Rai, loves Maiya, played by Rishma Gurung, in a way that knows no bounds. Or let’s say that is the only thing he knows. His young life is a constant struggle to win Maiya’s attention, who dreams of a successful life in a city, and eventually, her heart. But unrelenting Maiya wants something different, someone who can sweep her off her feet and take her closer to her dreams. This evokes a melee among the two suitors and more, and brainstorming sessions in Kaji’s part to be with the woman of his dreams. But the big question hangs in there. It features beautiful Mustang backdrop, humor, fight, funny one-liners, and the others yet-to-be-discovered items. Presented by Black Horse Pictures Pvt. Ltd., it is set to be released on April 25.
www.plus977.com.au
45
Plus 977
SPORTS
Rhinos’ Historic Success
N
epal made a stunning debut in their first
42 whereas star all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan blasted an
ever global ICC event in Bangladesh
18-ball 37 to ease to the victory. In their last group match,
winning two of it’s three group matches
Nepal produced an all-round and spirited effort against the
and winning lots of hearts in the process.
experienced Afghanistan. Losing toss, Nepal batted first and
Fresh from the disappointing ICC world
posted a competitive total of 141 thanks to opener Subash
cup qualifiers in New Zealand, where
Khakurel’s 53-ball 56 and Sharad Veshwakar’s 32-ball 37.
the tiny nation’s cricketers failed to get any success, Nepal
Defending the 140-odd total, Nepal produced excellent bowl-
staged a remarkable turnaround in the twenty20 world cup in
ing and fielding restricting star Afghani batsmen to play free
Bangladesh. In their first ever Twenty20 international match,
shots. Nepal’s right arm medium pacer Jitendra Mukhiya
Nepal posted a total of 149 against familiar opponent Hong
took three wickets where as teenager rising star Sompal
Kong thanks to vice-captain Gyanendra Malla’s 41-ball 48
Kami and veteran spinner Shakti Gauchan took two wickets
and skipper Paras Khadka’s 37-ball 41. Chasing 150 runs
each to win the match by 9 runs in last over. Mukhiya was
in 20 overs, Hong Kong were bundled out for just 69 runs
also awarded the ‘man of the match’. Following Hong Kong’s
in 17 overs handing 80-runs win to Nepal. Nepal’s left arm
stunning upset over the hosts Bangladesh, Nepal finished
spinners duo Shakti Gauchan and Basanta Regmi took three
the world cup with 4 points, same as the test-playing nation.
wickets each in the match where Gauchan was also awarded
Bangladesh however progressed to the Super 10 stage of
the ‘man of the match’. In second match and also the coun-
the tournament thanks to its superior run-rate over group
try’s first ever international against a full member test-playing
runner-up Nepal. The Nepalese players and officials received
nation, Nepal posted a modest 126 in 20 overs thanks to skip-
heroes’ welcome in Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) in
per Khadka’s 35-ball 41 and Sharad Veshwakar’s 43-ball 40.
Kathmandu after their historic success and brave perfor-
Experienced Bangladeshi batsmen chased down the target
mance in the ICC World Twenty20 in Bangladesh.
comfortably in 15.3 overs losing only two wickets. Young and talented Bangladeshi batsman Anamul Haque made 33-ball
46
-Pradeep Chapagain
www.plus977.com.au
SPORTS
www.plus977.com.au
Plus 977
47
Plus 977
SPORTS
Road to Lisbon The draw for the quarterfinals stage of the UEFA Champions League provided some mouth-watering clashes where eight of Europe’s best football clubs fight for victory aiming a trip to Portuguese city Lisbon for the 24thMay final. Cristiano Ronaldo’s Real Madrid is drawn against talented German side Borrusia Dortmund whereas French Champion Paris Saint Germain will meet Jose Mourinho’s Chelsea in the last eight. Spanish champions and four-time winners Barcelona is drawn against another Spanish side Atletico Madrid whereas defending champions and four-time winners Bayern Munich is drawn against English champions and three-time winners Manchester United in the final eight. The first legs of the ties will be played on April 1-2 with the return legs on April 8-9, with this year’s final of the elite competition to be held at Benfica’s Estadio da Luz in Lisbon on May 24.
Rosberg’s Spectacular Melbourne Win Mercedes’s star driver Nico Rosberg led from the front to win the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne where British star Lewis Hamilton and four-times defending champions Sebastian Vettel failed to complete the race. Rosberg got a perfect start to claim the lead from team-mate and pole-sitter Hamilton, and never looked troubled throughout the race thereafter. Red Bull’s Australian driver originally claimed the second position in front of the delighted home crowds, but was later stripped of his points following the investigation which showed his car had consistently exceeded the maximum allowable fuel flow rate under the new 2014 rules set by the Formula One’s body. That means McLaren’s Kevin Magnussen, originally third, finishes in stunning second place on his F1 debut with Jenson Button close behind in third position. The shocks of the opening race of new Formula One season was the early retirements of Hamilton and Vettel, however, both of whom suffered misfiring cylinders that saw them missing pace from the starting grid. It was the fourth race win for the Mercedes’s 28-year old German driver Rosberg who finished 6th in overall driver’s championship last year. The drivers now head to Malaysia for the second race of the season and then to Bahrain for the third.
Nole Triumphs at Indian Wells Novak Djokovic defeated his old rival Roger Federer 3-6, 6-3, 7-6(3) in final to win the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells in nail-biting fashion. It was Djokovic’s first title of 2014 who had lost to eventual winner Stanislas Wawrinka in Australian Open quarterfinals at Melbourne Park. Swiss maestro Federer took the opening set by 6-3 taking advantage of the Serbian’s nervous start but Djokovic roared back in the second set winning by same margin. The deciding set provided some thrilling tennis where both players had to dig deep to force a tie-breaker. Djokovic eventually won the match to win his third title in the Californian desert tournament and lifted his 42nd career title. It was Federer’s first loss at Indian Wells after he had previously won a record four times. Federer reached the final without dropping a set and made a flying start against Djokovic, in their 33rd career meeting. Despite the defeat, Federer leads their head to head record 17-16. Buoyed by the crowds, Federer tied the third set at 6-6 to force the tie-break but Djokovic regained his composure to clinch the title after almost two and a quarter hours battle.
48
www.plus977.com.au
SPORTS
Plus 977
Liverpool’s Stunning Title Challenge 18-times English champions Liverpool have been playing some of the best football in recent years to force a tough competition for this year’s English Premier League (EPL) crown. The five-times European champions Liverpool is currently sitting at second place with 65 points, four behind leaders Chelsea and two ahead of third placed Manchester City. Chelsea have played 31 games out of 38 but Liverpool have one game in hand to cut the deficit to a single point however City still have three games in hand to have the chance to leap-frog both Chelsea and Liverpool. Many football pundits have praised the Merseyside club’s stunning form thanks to the deadly striking partnership of Uruguayan star Luis Suarez and English star Daniel Sturridge. Suarez is at the top of the goal scoring charts with 28 goals whereas Sturridge is second with 19 goals. Liverpool’s two remaining big fixtures at Anfield against Chelsea and Manchester City seem as title-defining clashes. It is believed that this year’s EPL trophy race is between leaders Chelsea, second-placed Liverpool and third-placed Manchester City as injury-hit fourth-placed Arsenal is slipping in crucial fixtures. The last round of this year’s EPL fixtures arescheduled to be played on May 12 exactly a month before the World Cup in Brazil.
2014 Winter Olympics Round UP The 22ndedition of Winter Olympic Games were held in Sochi, Russia from February 7 to 23. A total of 88 Nations with approximately 2,800 athletes participated in the global event fighting for the Olympic medals in the hills of Sochi. Russian president Vladimir Putin inaugurated the opening ceremony in Fisht Olympic Stadium. A total of 98 events in 15 winter sport disciplines were held during the Games including a number of new competitions. Host nation Russia topped the medal table with 13 gold medals, eleven silvers and nine bronzes. 26 countries won at least a medal in the Sochi Games whereas 62 countries could not win a single medal. Australia finished the Olympics in 24th place with 2 silver medals and a bronze medal. The table below illustrates the top 10 nations in the Games,
Rank
NOC
Gold
Silver
Bronze
Total
1
Russia
13
11
9
33
2
Norway
11
5
10
26
3
Canada
10
10
5
25
4
USA
9
7
12
28
5
Netherlands
8
7
9
24
6
Germany
8
6
5
19
7
Switzerland
6
3
2
11
8
Belarus
5
0
1
6
9
Austria
4
8
5
17
10
France
4
4
7
15
24
Australia
0
2
1
3
www.plus977.com.au
49
rely on
Designed by: Plus977
Thinking of what course for your career ?
experts !
Nursing | Accounting | Engineering | IT Meet our expert counsellors who will assist you to find the best courses that suits your budget and needs. Merit scholarship available at reputed Universities. Have you got any relatives or friends in Nepal who intend to visit, study or migrate to Australia, Please ask them to visit our expert counsellors at our Nepal branches in Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan & Butwal
Expert Education & Visa Services Your complete education and migration solution
SYDNEY Suite 1607, Level 16, 87-89 Liverpool St World Tower Sydney, NSW 2000 Tel/Fax: +61 2 92690070 M: 0411 555 960, 0413 887 537
QUEENSLAND HSBC Building, Level 20 300 Queen St., BNE QLD 4000 Tel/Fax: +61 7 3023 5032 07 3023 4000 M: 0422 164 351
MELBOURNE Suite 410, Level 4 365 Little Colins St. Melbourne, VIC 3000 Tel/Fax: +61 3 9642 0138 M: 0410 998 900
www.experteducation.com.au
KATHMANDU Level 3, Glass House, (5th Building south of Kumari Bank) Putali Sadak, Kathmandu Tel: +977 1 4218666, 4233129
CHITWAN Lions Chowk,Narayangarh Chitwan,Nepal Phone: +977 56 531206 Mobile: +977 98550 54303
BUTWAL Milan Chowk-10 Butwal,Nepal Phone: +977 71 546363 Mobile: +977 98570 24199
Email: info@experteducation.com.au