My All-Time Favourite Book: Mahabharat

Among all the books I have read, my all-time favourite is Mahabharat written by Chakraborti Rajagopalachary. The edition I own was published in India in 1995. Although the original work was written in Tamil, its popularity gradually spread across North India, leading to translations into several languages. The Nepali translation was done by Dhundiraj Koirala, a childhood friend of Bishweshwar Prasad (B. P.) Koirala, and he dedicated the book to his close friend.

This book holds a special place in my family. When I asked my father about it, he told me that he had bought the book because he wanted to understand the Mahabharata through a concise and easy-to-read version. Over the years, every member of our family has read and reread it many times. As a result, the book is now in very poor physical condition. Many pages have become loose, some are torn, and others have been carefully taped back together. It almost looks like an ancient manuscript. However, its worn-out appearance reflects not neglect but the love and respect our family has for it.

What makes this book unique is its simple and organized presentation. Instead of narrating the entire epic in one continuous story, it presents the important events in short, topic-wise chapters. Most chapters focus on individual characters, making it easy for readers to understand their lives, personalities, and contributions to the epic. Chapters on characters such as Devavrata, King Shantanu, and Bhishma are especially memorable and help readers appreciate their roles in shaping the story.

The book includes all the essential events and teachings of the Mahabharata without overwhelming the reader with unnecessary details. Its concise style makes it suitable for both beginners and experienced readers who wish to revisit the epic. Through this book, I have learned about duty, sacrifice, truth, justice, and the consequences of human actions.

For me, this book is much more than a collection of stories. It is a treasured family possession that has been passed from one generation to the next. Even though it is old and damaged, its value has only increased with time. It reminds me of my father's love for reading and of the many meaningful discussions my family has had about the lessons of the Mahabharata. That is why this book will always remain my all-time favourite.

Baahubali Review (To Be Continued...)

Motivation: The Power of Purpose and Love

One of the most memorable sequences in Baahubali: The Beginning is Mahendra Baahubali's attempt to climb the gigantic waterfall in his village. This scene is much more than a display of physical strength—it is a powerful lesson about motivation and the human spirit.

Since childhood, Mahendra Baahubali has been fascinated by the world beyond the waterfall. He constantly wonders what lies above it and dreams of reaching the top. Time and again, he attempts the impossible climb. His adopted mother strongly opposes his desire because she fears for his safety, but Mahendra refuses to give up. Despite repeated failures, his curiosity and determination remain alive.

Years pass, and Mahendra grows into a powerful young man. Yet his dream remains unchanged. He continues to challenge the waterfall, but there is one particular point that he can never cross. Every attempt ends in failure. Even his friends begin to discourage him, telling him to abandon the dream because it is impossible.

At this stage, everyone around him—his mother and his friends—is against the idea. They believe he should accept his limits. However, Mahendra refuses to let go of his ambition.

Then destiny changes everything.

One day, a mysterious mask falls from the top of the waterfall. The mask fascinates Mahendra. For days, he keeps looking at it, wondering who it belongs to.  Who could be living beyond the waterfall?

One day, he places the mask on the sand. The three-dimensional shape of the mask creates the beautiful outline of a woman's face. The image captivates him. Although he has never met her, he becomes deeply attracted to the mysterious woman and develops an overwhelming desire to find her.

This becomes the turning point.

Filled with a new purpose, Mahendra begins climbing the waterfall once again. He reaches the very spot where he had failed countless times before. But this time, instead of thinking about his fear or his failures, he imagines the beautiful woman waiting beyond the waterfall. That vision fills him with extraordinary determination. He gives every ounce of his strength and finally crosses the obstacle that had always stopped him.

The climb becomes even more dangerous, but his motivation never weakens. His desire to meet the mysterious woman keeps pushing him forward until he successfully reaches the top.

This sequence beautifully demonstrates that motivation can awaken hidden strength within a person. Mahendra's physical abilities had always existed, but he needed a powerful reason to unlock his full potential. The mysterious woman gave him that purpose.

The film suggests that when a person deeply loves or is inspired by someone, they can achieve what once seemed impossible. Love, purpose, and determination together can transform ordinary effort into extraordinary achievement.

The waterfall was never just a physical obstacle. It symbolized the limits of the human mind. Once Mahendra found a purpose greater than his fear, those limits disappeared. That is what makes this scene one of the most inspiring moments in Baahubali.

         Mahendra Baahubali is crossing the most difficult part of the waterfall.
 

बुवालाई एउटा चिठी

 

नोट: आमाले आफ्ना बुवाको सम्झनामा चौध वर्षअघि लेख्नुभएको चिठी। 

मिति: २०६९/०८/१०

प्रिय बुवा,

हामी सबै यहाँ सन्चै छौँ। तपाईं पनि जहाँ हुनुहुन्छ, त्यहाँ शान्ति र सुखमा हुनुहुन्छ भन्ने विश्वास गर्छु।

हरेक बिहान करिब पाँच बजे उठेर ध्यानमा बस्ने मेरो बानी छ। त्यस बेला आकाशमा एउटा चम्किलो तारा देखिन्छ। म त्यसै तारालाई तपाईं सम्झेर हेर्छु र मनमनै भन्छु, "बुवा!" त्यो तारा तपाईं नै हो जस्तो लाग्छ। त्यसैले तपाईं जहाँ हुनुहुन्छ, त्यहाँ आनन्द र आराममा हुनुहुन्छ भन्ने अनुभूति हुन्छ।

बुवा, तपाईंलाई एउटा खुसीको खबर सुनाउन मन लाग्यो। अहिले अलैँचीको मूल्य बढेर प्रतिमन ४० हजार रुपैयाँ पुगेको छ। अझ तीन वर्षअघि त यसको मूल्य ६० हजार रुपैयाँसम्म पुगेको थियो। तपाईं हुनुहुन्थ्यो भने यो खबर सुनेर कति खुसी हुनुहुन्थ्यो होला! अलैँचीप्रति तपाईंको माया र मेहनत सम्झँदा अहिले पनि मन भरिन्छ। तर नियतिले तपाईंलाई धेरै छिट्टै हामीबाट टाढा लग्यो।

तपाईंले छोडेर जानुभएको भैँसी अहिले पनि घरमै छ। उसले राम्रो दूध दिन्छे, र घिउ पनि निकै स्वादिलो हुन्छ। त्यस भैँसीको दूध र घिउ हामीले कति खायौँ, त्यसको हिसाब नै छैन। उसले हरेक वर्ष बाछाबाछी पनि जन्माउँछे। साँच्चै, कति राम्रो भैँसी छ। आमाले धेरै दुःख गरेर अझै पनि त्यसलाई माया गर्दै पालिरहनुभएको छ।

तर तपाईंलाई धेरै माया लागेको गाई भने तपाईं जानुभएको वर्षमै मरिन्। कहिलेकाहीँ मनमा लाग्छ, सायद त्यो गाई पनि तपाईंलाई धेरै माया गर्थी। त्यसैले तपाईं गएको धेरै समय एक्लै बस्न नसकेर तपाईंलाई नै साथ दिन आइपुगी होली। अहिले तपाईंहरू दुवै जहाँ हुनुहुन्छ, सँगै हुनुहुन्छ कि जस्तो लाग्छ।

बुवा, तपाईं हामीबीच शारीरिक रूपमा नभए पनि तपाईंका सम्झना, तपाईंले सिकाएका मूल्य र तपाईंले देखाउनुभएको जीवनको बाटो आज पनि हाम्रो साथमा छन्। तपाईंको अभाव कहिल्यै पूरा हुँदैन, तर तपाईंले छोडेर जानुभएको प्रेरणाले हामीलाई सधैँ अघि बढ्न हौसला दिइरहेको छ।

जहाँ हुनुहुन्छ, सधैँ शान्तिमा रहनुहोस्। हामी तपाईंलाई हरेक दिन सम्झिरहेका छौँ।

तपाईंको छोरी

 रुकमिणी जिमी

काठमाडौं

 

 

 

मेरो मावली हजुरबुबा: एक असाधारण व्यक्तित्वको कथा

मानिसको महानता उसको सम्पत्ति वा पदले होइन, उसले समाजका लागि गरेको योगदानले मापन गरिन्छ। मेरो मावली हजुरबुबा पनि यस्तै एक असाधारण व्यक्तित्व हुनुहुन्थ्यो। उहाँलाई मैले प्रत्यक्ष रूपमा चिन्ने अवसर पाइनँ, तर आमाबाट सुनेका उहाँका जीवनका कथा र समाजप्रतिको योगदानले उहाँप्रति गहिरो सम्मान जगाउँछ।

आमाका अनुसार उहाँ साहसी, बुद्धिमान, मेहनती, दूरदर्शी र समाजसेवामा समर्पित व्यक्ति हुनुहुन्थ्यो। उहाँ आफ्नो गाउँ मात्र होइन, छिमेकी गाउँहरूमा समेत निकै लोकप्रिय हुनुहुन्थ्यो। उहाँले आफ्नो समयभन्दा धेरै अगाडि सोच्ने क्षमता राख्नुहुन्थ्यो र गाउँको विकासका लागि निरन्तर काम गर्नुभयो।

उहाँको महत्वपूर्ण योगदानमध्ये एउटा सङ्खुवासभा जिल्लामा पहिलो पटक अलैँची खेतीको सुरुवात गराउनु थियो। आज अलैँची पूर्वी नेपालको महत्वपूर्ण नगदे बालीमध्ये एक मानिन्छ। त्यतिबेला यस्तो खेतीको सम्भावना देखेर यसको विस्तार गर्न अग्रसर हुनु उहाँको दूरदर्शिताको उदाहरण हो।

कृषि क्षेत्रमा मात्र होइन, शिक्षाको विकासमा पनि उहाँको योगदान उल्लेखनीय थियो। उहाँले आफ्नै गाउँमा प्राथमिक विद्यालय स्थापना गर्न महत्वपूर्ण भूमिका खेल्नुभयो, जसले गाउँका बालबालिकालाई शिक्षा प्राप्त गर्ने अवसर प्रदान गर्‍यो।

त्यसैगरी गाउँको समग्र विकासका लागि उहाँले धेरै पूर्वाधार निर्माणका काममा नेतृत्व गर्नुभयो। पुल निर्माण, खानेपानी र सिँचाइको व्यवस्था, घट्ट (पानीघट्ट) सञ्चालन, विद्युत् र सञ्चार सेवाको विस्तार तथा स्थानीय बजार स्थापना जस्ता कामहरूले गाउँको आर्थिक र सामाजिक जीवनमा ठूलो परिवर्तन ल्याए। यी सबै कार्यले उहाँ केवल एक समाजसेवी मात्र नभई दूरदर्शी विकास अभियन्ता पनि हुनुहुन्थ्यो भन्ने स्पष्ट हुन्छ।

मेरो मावली हजुरबुबाको जन्म सङ्खुवासभा जिल्लाको मादी–वालिङ भन्ने सानो गाउँमा भएको थियो। उहाँका पिता धनबहादुर जिमी र माता अश्रानी जिमी हुनुहुन्थ्यो। उहाँ मझिया परिवारमा जन्मनुभएको थियो। त्यतिबेला मझिया परिवारका सदस्यहरू स्थानीय प्रशासनिक तथा सरकारी जिम्मेवारी निर्वाह गर्ने पदमा नियुक्त हुने परम्परा थियो। उनीहरूले राज्य र स्थानीय समुदायबीच समन्वय गर्ने, प्रशासनिक कामकाज सञ्चालन गर्ने तथा गाउँको नेतृत्व गर्ने महत्वपूर्ण भूमिका निर्वाह गर्थे।

दुर्भाग्यवश, उहाँका पिताको निधन सानै उमेरमा भयो। तर उहाँका हजुरबुबा जिम्मेवार मझिया हुनुहुन्थ्यो। उहाँले आफ्ना नातिलाई मझियाको जिम्मेवारी, नेतृत्व क्षमता, सामाजिक उत्तरदायित्व र जनसेवाको भावना सिकाउँदै हुर्काउनुभयो। सम्भवतः त्यही संस्कार र शिक्षाले पछि उहाँलाई गाउँको विकास र समाजसेवामा समर्पित व्यक्तित्वका रूपमा स्थापित गरायो।

मेरो मावली हजुरबुबाको जीवनले एउटा सन्देश दिन्छ—साँचो नेतृत्व भनेको आफ्ना लागि होइन, समाजका लागि काम गर्नु हो। उहाँले निर्माण गरेका विद्यालय, पुल, खानेपानी, सिँचाइ, बजार र अन्य विकासका आधारहरू आज पनि उहाँको दूरदृष्टि, नेतृत्व र समाजप्रतिको समर्पणका जीवित प्रमाण हुन्। उहाँको जीवनगाथा हाम्रो परिवारका लागि मात्र होइन, भावी पुस्ताका लागि पनि प्रेरणाको स्रोत बनेर रहनेछ।

कृषि अध्ययन भ्रमणका क्रममा स्विट्जरल्यान्डमा

युट्युबले बदलिँदै गरेका जीवनहरू

केही सातादेखि म युट्युबमा African Village Life नामक च्यानल नियमित रूपमा हेरिरहेको छु। यो च्यानल केन्याका गाउँहरूमा बसोबास गर्ने मानिसहरूको दैनिक जीवन, खाना पकाउने, गाउँका मानिसहरूलाई भोजन वितरण गर्ने तथा सामाजिक सहयोगका गतिविधिहरूमा केन्द्रित छ।

यस च्यानलका मुख्य पात्रहरू चार्लो कुश (Charlow Kush) र उनकी श्रीमती लिनेट (Linet) हुन्। उनीहरूले आफ्नो सामग्रीमार्फत केवल मनोरञ्जन मात्र दिएका छैनन्, समाजसेवाको एउटा प्रेरणादायी उदाहरण पनि प्रस्तुत गरेका छन्।

यस च्यानलमा मलाई सबैभन्दा बढी छोएको कथा क्लारिस (Claris) नामकी एक गरिब महिलाको हो। उनका श्रीमान् छन्, एक छोरा र एक छोरी छन्। आर्थिक अभावका कारण उनीहरूको जीवन अत्यन्त कठिन थियो। उनीहरूको बसोबासको अवस्था पनि निकै दयनीय थियो।

चार्लो र लिनेटले युट्युब दर्शकहरूको सहयोगबाट उठेको रकम प्रयोग गरेर क्लारिसको परिवारका लागि नयाँ घर निर्माण गरिदिए। त्यो दृश्य हेर्दा केवल एउटा घर बनेको जस्तो लाग्दैन, बरु एउटा परिवारको आशा, सम्मान र भविष्य पुनः निर्माण भएको अनुभूति हुन्छ।

यस कथाले मलाई गहिरो रूपमा छोयो। हामीमध्ये धेरैका लागि सामान्य लाग्ने घर, सुरक्षित बसोबास र दैनिक भोजनजस्ता आधारभूत आवश्यकताहरू संसारका धेरै मानिसहरूका लागि अझै पनि सपना नै छन्। यस्ता परिवारको जीवनमा आएको सकारात्मक परिवर्तन प्रत्यक्ष देख्न पाउँदा दर्शकको रूपमा पनि आत्मसन्तुष्टि मिल्छ।

मलाई लाग्छ, युट्युबले सिर्जना गरेको नयाँ आर्थिक प्रणालीले यस्तो परिवर्तन सम्भव बनाएको हो। परम्परागत रोजगारी वा आयस्रोतबाट यति ठूलो सामाजिक सहयोग जुटाउन सधैं सहज हुँदैन। तर युट्युबजस्ता डिजिटल माध्यमले संसारभरका मानिसहरूलाई एउटै उद्देश्यका लागि जोड्न सफल भएको छ। लाखौं दर्शकले दिएको सानो–सानो सहयोग एक ठाउँमा जम्मा हुँदा कसैको जीवन नै बदलिन सक्छ।

यसले युट्युब केवल मनोरञ्जनको माध्यम मात्र होइन, सकारात्मक परिवर्तन ल्याउने शक्तिशाली सामाजिक प्लेटफर्म पनि हुन सक्छ भन्ने प्रमाणित गर्छ। यदि सिर्जनाकर्ताले आफ्नो प्रभावलाई सही उद्देश्यका लागि प्रयोग गरे भने डिजिटल संसारले हजारौं मानिसहरूको जीवनमा आशा, सम्मान र नयाँ सम्भावना ल्याउन सक्छ।

African Village Life जस्ता च्यानलहरूले हामीलाई एउटा महत्वपूर्ण सन्देश दिन्छन्—प्रविधि र सामाजिक सद्भाव एकसाथ अघि बढ्दा एउटा भिडियोले पनि कसैको जीवन परिवर्तन गर्न सक्छ।

लिनेट कार्यक्रम प्रस्तुत गरिरहेकी छन्

लोहोरुङ समाज र मेरो केहि अनुभव

कलेज पढ्ने सिलसिलामा काठमाडौं आएपछी लोहोरुङ समाज सँग जोडिने मौका पाइयो ।२०६१ सालामा पाटन कलेज मा भएको महाधिबेशन मा डम्मर लोहोरुङ( काका ) मैले चिनेको पहिलो लोहोरुङ अधक्ष्य हुनुभयो ।  त्यसै अन्तर्गत् NGO-FONIN  सँग जोडिने मौका मिल्यो । NGO FONIN लोहोरुङ संस्था साथसाथै  १४ वटा अरु जातिय संस्था को छाता सँगठन थियो । आदिवासी हरुको हक अधिकार को बारेमा जानकारी भयो । थुप्रै आन्दोलन मा भाग लियौ । सुचिकारणको  लागी आवाज उठाउने काम हरु भयो ।  आदिवसी सँग सम्ब धि तालिम अनि भ्रमण मा भाग लिने अवसर मिल्यो । तीन बर्ष जती समुहमा सकृय भएपछी व्यक्तिगत कारण जगिर तिर बाटो मोडियो । सकृय हुन नसकेपनी समय समयमा समुहमा हुने कार्यक्रम हरु मा सहभागी भ इ रखेको छु । मैले भाग लिएको केहि कार्यक्रम निम्न अनुसार ब्यक्खा गर्न चाहन्छु :   

थान कोट बनभोज  कार्यक्रम (२०६१)
मैले लिएको पहिलो लोहोरुङ समुहको पहिलो  समुहिक कार्य यही नै थियो । यो बन भोज कार्यक्रम मा थुप्रै लोहोरुन्ङ्हरु  उपस्थित हुनुहुन्थ्यो । साह्रै रमाइलो पनि भएको थियो । 

 मशाल प्रदर्शन ( २०६४ भदौ )
यो साता व्यापी आन्दोलन थियो । यस को मुख्य उदेश्य आत्मा निर्णयको अधिकार सहित को सं ग्घीय गणतन्त्रको स्थापना गर्न को लागि दबाब दिने कार्यक्रम थियो ।

 नेपाल अन्तराष्ट्रिय आदिवासी चलचित्र महोत्सव र फुड फेस्टीबल (२०६५ जेष्ठ)
लोहोरुङ महिला समुहले नेपाल अन्तराष्ट्रिय आदिवासी चलचित्र महोत्सवको फुड फेस्टीबलमा भाग लिए थियौ। यो फुड फेस्टिवल जेष्ठ २४ देखी २७ गते सम्म ४ दिन चलेको थियो। लोहोरुङ खानाहरु जस्तै चाम्रे, वाचेपा, मासिकदाम,सरुवा आदी समबेश गरिएको थियो । यो हरेक साल आयोजना हुन्थ्यो र लगातर ५ बर्ष सम्म भाग लिएका थियौ ।

हस्ताक्षर संकलन कार्यक्रम  (२०६५ साउन)
यो कार्यक्र्म मा हस्ताक्षर संकलन गरेर संविधानन सभाको पहिलो बैठकमा सभा अध्यक्ष मर्फत संविधानन सभासध हरु समक्ष बुझाउने थियो ।    

अन्त राष्ट्रिय आदिवासी दिवस (२०६५ भदौ)
यो कार्यक्रमा टुडिखेल देखी र्यली गरेर दसरथ रङशलामा अन्त गरिएको थियो साथै लोहोरुङ खानाको स्टल पनि रखिएको थियो ।

कैलाली कंचनपुर भ्रमण
मुक्त कमैयाको आन्दोलन नजिक बाट बुझ्न को लागि यो भ्रमणको आयोजन भएको थियो ।

जनजाती आदिवसी संबन्दी तालिमहरु
रणनीतिका , प्रस्ताव लेखान, पत्रकारिता, कार्यालय ब्यबस्थापान आदी तालिम हरु मा सहभागएए हुने मौका मिल्यो । 

2011 पर्यटन बर्ष उत्सव
यो कार्यक्रम २०६७ चैत्र महिनामा भएको थियो । यो कार्यक्रमा लोहोरुङ समुदायको झाकी प्रदर्शन गर्नु को साथै  खाना को स्टल पनि रखिएको थियो । 

लोहोरुङ देउसी भैलो कार्यक्रम
बर्ष पिछे गरिने यो कार्यक्रम सबै भन्दा निरन्तर भ इ रहेको कार्यक्रम को । धेरै भन्दा धेरै लोहोरुङ्हरु  समाबेश हुने यो कार्यक्रम मा म पनि नछु टाइ सहभाग गि भएको छु अहिले सम्म ।

Baahubali Re-Review: A New Observation on an Epic Masterpiece

No one can deny that Baahubali is a marvelous cinematic achievement. It is one of those rare films that can be watched repeatedly without losing its magic. Every viewing reveals something new to appreciate. The story, characters, costumes, cinematography, background score, and songs are all exceptional, making it one of the finest films in Indian cinema.

The Baahubali film series also holds the distinction of being one of the highest-grossing franchises in the history of Indian cinema. Its success is not only measured by box office records but also by its lasting impact on audiences across the world.

Today, I decided to rewatch the film with a fresh perspective, paying close attention to details that I had overlooked before.

The film begins with the opening credits introducing the filmmaking team. Then comes the very first dialogue:

"Parmeshwor... if you want redemption for my sins, then take my life, but give life to this baby."

These powerful words are spoken by Queen Mother Sivagami as she desperately escapes the palace carrying the infant Mahendra Baahubali. Both their lives are in grave danger. Despite being severely injured, Sivagami continues her journey with only one goal—to save the child. She ultimately sacrifices her own life, but her wish is fulfilled when the baby is rescued by the tribal villagers and survives.

This opening dialogue carries a deeper symbolic meaning. In Hindu culture, beginning any important task by remembering God is considered highly auspicious. People often invoke the name of Parmeshwor (God) before starting a new journey, undertaking a responsibility, or making a significant decision, believing that divine blessings bring success and protection.

It is therefore fascinating that the very first spoken word in Baahubali is "Parmeshwor." This appears to be more than a coincidence. It subtly reflects a deeply rooted cultural tradition while setting the spiritual and emotional tone for the epic story that follows. Before introducing kingdoms, wars, or heroes, the film begins with an invocation of God, reminding the audience that faith, sacrifice, and destiny are at the heart of the narrative.

This small detail demonstrates the thoughtful craftsmanship behind Baahubali. Even its opening dialogue is carefully designed to connect with Indian cultural values and create an emotional foundation for the journey ahead. It is one of many reasons why Baahubali continues to reward audiences with new insights every time it is revisited.

Queen Mother Sivagami carrying baby Mahendra Bahubali

My Experience Visiting China

China had always fascinated me through documentaries and travel videos, especially its food, culture, and lifestyle. I often admired how the country had transformed itself into one of the world's leading economies while preserving its rich cultural heritage. Last month, I was fortunate to visit China with the support of the Chinese government, an opportunity that allowed me to experience the country firsthand. The visit was organized as part of a training program on modern agriculture in Yangling, Shaanxi Province, and it became one of the most memorable experiences of my life.

 

The training was held in Yangling, a city renowned as China's Agricultural Demonstration Zone. Agriculture in the region is driven by advanced science and technology, with research institutions developing innovative farming techniques to improve productivity and sustainability. During the program, we learned about modern agricultural practices, technological innovations, and successful strategies that have contributed to rural development and poverty reduction. The training provided valuable insights into how research, innovation, and effective policies can transform the agricultural sector.

Our journey began with a transit in Guangzhou. Although it was only a short stop, the airport gave us our first impression of modern China. It was spacious, clean, and efficiently managed. Facilities such as free drinking water, elevators, restaurants, shops, comfortable waiting areas, internet access, mobile charging stations, and beautifully maintained indoor flower gardens reflected the country's commitment to providing quality public services. The airport itself stood as a symbol of China's rapid development and modernization.

Our final destination was Yangling, located in northwestern China, about 80 kilometers west of Xi'an, the capital of Shaanxi Province. Despite having a population of only around 155,000, Yangling has gained international recognition as a center for agricultural research and innovation. The city serves as a demonstration zone where new farming technologies and agricultural practices are tested, promoted, and shared with farmers from across China and abroad. Visiting research centers and demonstration farms gave us the opportunity to witness how science and technology are improving agricultural productivity and supporting sustainable development.

After completing the training, we traveled to Xi'an, one of the oldest cities in the world and the ancient starting point of the Silk Road. The one-hour bus journey from Yangling brought us to a city where history and modern development coexist beautifully. Xi'an is internationally famous for the Terracotta Army, one of the world's greatest archaeological discoveries. Although our itinerary included a visit to this remarkable site, we were unfortunately unable to go because of the extreme summer heat, strict security measures, and the overwhelming number of visitors. As one of China's most popular tourist attractions, it receives millions of tourists every year, making the queues exceptionally long during the peak season.

Despite missing the Terracotta Army, we visited several other iconic landmarks in Xi'an, including the ancient City Wall, the Drum Tower, and the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda. These historical monuments reflect the rich cultural and architectural heritage of ancient China. At the same time, the city showcased impressive signs of modern development through its clean streets, widespread use of electric vehicles, beautiful flower gardens, modern shopping malls, well-planned residential areas, and excellent public infrastructure. The harmony between ancient history and contemporary urban development left a lasting impression on me.

 

Our final destination was Beijing, the capital of China. Visiting Beijing was truly inspiring because it perfectly blends thousands of years of history with remarkable modernization. We had the opportunity to visit some of China's most famous landmarks, including the Great Wall of China, the Temple of Heaven, and the Summer Palace. Standing on the Great Wall was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, offering breathtaking views and a deep appreciation for one of humanity's greatest engineering achievements. The Temple of Heaven and the Summer Palace reflected the artistic brilliance, architectural excellence, and cultural richness of ancient Chinese civilization. Meanwhile, Beijing's modern skyline, efficient transportation system, and world-class infrastructure demonstrated the country's extraordinary progress in recent decades.

Throughout the journey, I was impressed not only by China's physical development but also by the discipline, hard work, and dedication of its people. The efficient public transportation, clean environment, organized cities, and commitment to innovation highlighted the collective effort that has driven the country's remarkable transformation. It was evident that long-term planning, investment in education and technology, and the determination of the Chinese people have played significant roles in the nation's success.

My visit to China ended with unforgettable memories, valuable knowledge, and a deep appreciation for the country's achievements. The experience broadened my understanding of modern agriculture, technological advancement, and cultural heritage. I returned home inspired by what I had seen and learned, believing that there is much that other countries can learn from China's commitment to development and innovation.

I sincerely appreciate the opportunity to visit this remarkable country. I wish the people of China continued peace, prosperity, and progress in the years ahead. May China continue to contribute to global development and inspire future generations through its achievements in science, technology, culture, and sustainable development.

 

हिडाई

आज धेरै दिन पछी राम्रै सँग हिडियो । कुरा के पर्‍यो भने  छोराको चेस सिकाउने शिक्षीकाले चेस खेल्नको लागी शारिरिक व्यायम पनि अति आवस्यक हो भन्नु भएको थियो । त्यसै सिलसिलामा उसलाई दिनहुँ एक्लै छोटो दुरी घर नजिकै पठाइ रहेको थिएँ । तर उसलाई अलि टाढा हिंड्न मन हुन थालेको  हुनाले अलि टाढा जाने कुरा भयो तर एक्लै हिंड्ने बानी परेको हुनाले म सँग जान मानेन । अनि म पनि अलि असुरक्षित हुन्छ कि भनेर उसको पछी पछी जाने निर्णय गरे । घर बाट निस्किदा पानी परी रहेको थियो ।छाता ओडेर उ  निस्कियो ।   म पनि उसको पछी पछी  निस्के । मैले पनि छाता ओडेको छु । 

छोरा अलि अगाडी छ म उसको पछी पछी छु । उसले मलाई देख्छ कि जस्तो पनि लाग्छ तै पनि अगाडी बडी रहेको अवस्था छ । अलि परा पुगे पछी उ एकछिन अडिन्छ अनि आफ्नो जुत्ता को लेस बाध्न थल्छ । म पनि रोकिन्छु । उ लेस बाधिसकेपछी  अगाडी बड्छ । अनि म पनि । अलि पर पुगेपछी पछडी हेर्छ बाटो काट्न को लागी रहेछ । मलाई उसले देखेन । हामी अलि हिड्छौ । अलि डाँडा पुगेपछी फेरी उ रोकिन्छ अनि उधो काठमाडौं फाँट तिर हेर्न थल्छ । म आफ्नै ठाउँम रोकिन्छु । उ निकै बेर हेरी राख्छ  । मलाई लाग्छ अब उ फर्किने रहेछ । 

पानी ठुलो परी रहेको छ । म चप्पल  र  ठुलो जाङे पाइन्ट लाएर निस्केको छु । घुडाँ देखी तल भिजिसकेको छ । छोरा फेरी अगाडी बढ्छ  । मेरो खुट्टा मा माटो छिरेको छ । त्यसलाई धुन एक छिन रोकिन्छु र धुन थल्छु । अनि धुइसकेर हेर्दा छोरा निकै पर पुगिसकेको छ म छिटो छिटो हिंड्न थल्छु । छोराले घुम्ती काटेर  नदेखिने भैसक्यो । म कुद्न  थाले । ठुलो पानी परी रहेकै छ । बाटोमा  हिंड्ने मान्छे हरु पनि छैनन् । फाट्ट फुट्ट बाईक हरु कुदी रहेको छ । कुदेर घुम्ती पुग्दा  तेस्का बाजे दुइ वटा बाटो पो आइ पुग्यो । अब कुन बाटो गयो कसरी थाहा पाउने । दाइने तिर को बाटो अलि ओरालो अनि सानो थियो । देब्रे तिर को बाटो अलि सिधा र तेर्सो थिओ । यो सिधा बाटो नै गयो होला भनेर म त्यो बाटो तिर लागे ।

अलि पर पुग्छु तर उ छैन । अझ पर पुग्छु तै  पनि छैन । अब पक्कै पनि यो बाटो न आएको पुष्टी भयो ।  अनि फर्के फेरी तै  दोबाटोमा । पानी परेको परेकै  छ । मेरो देब्रे हात को बाहुला पुरै भिजिसकेको  छ अनि जाङे पाइन्ट पनि घुडाँ माथी भिज्न थालेको छ । स्कुलको भ्यान हरु गुडी रहेको छ । म तेही कुर्न थल्छु । उ तेही बाटो फर्किन्छ भनेर । हतार गरेर निस्केको  म । फोन पनि छैन । भए पनि छोरा सँग पनि फोन छैन । ५ मिनेट गयो , १० मिनेट गयो, फेरी अर्को दस मिनेट । अँह आएन । पच्चिस मिनेट  पछी सोचे पछाडि भए  आउँछ  अगाडी भए म भन्दा घर छिटो पुग्छ । अनि म त्यहाँ बाट हिडे । पछाडी  हेर्दै हिड्दै   छु । अनि अलि पर पुगे पछी सेतो सर्ट लगाएको मेरो छोरो आउँदै छ त । कस्तो खुशी लगेको । अनि फेरी म अगाडी हिडेको हिडै। पछडि हेर्दै । तर उसले देखेन । घर पुगे । एक छिनमा  उ पनि आइपुग्यो  ।

अहिले सम्म  रहस्यमै छ । आजको हिडाइ ।  

 

एक्कैछिन

 'तपाइलाई थाहा छ प्रभु को बारेमा ' अपरिचित युबतीले मलाई सोध्छिन
'थाहा छैन त ' छोराको स्कुल बस कुरीरहेको म उसलाई उत्तर दिन्छु किनकी म सँग नि समय अलिकती छ छोरा नाअइेन्जेल  
'तपाइलाई म केही कुर भन्न चाहन्छु तपाईं सुन्न चाहनु हुन्छ? " सानो बहिनीहरु देखेर उनीहरु पनि काम गरी रहेको त हो नि भनेर म चासो देखाएर भन्छु " हुन्छ "
'तपाइ लाई शरीर महत्वपूर्ण लाग्छ कि आत्मा ?' उनी सोध्छिन
'दुबै "
'मान्छेले शरीर मात्र देख्ने हुनाले शरीर लाई महत्व दिन्छ तर यदी आत्मा शरीर मा छैन भने त्यो मनिष जिवित रहदैन'
'ए'
' तपाईं लाई आत्मा कहाँंबाट कसरी आउँछ जान्ने मन् छ भने मन्डली मा आउनु न है । उ पर चोक नजिकै छ आउनु हुन्छ ?'
'बिचार गर्छु '
'धन्यवाद '
'तपाइलाई नि धन्यवाद है त "
 

आमा

 बहिनी : दिदी निवाले अस्ती स्वयम्भु  जाँदा  आमा को  letters खोजेर आमा लेख्दै थियो ।

बाटो

 बाटो बाल्यकालको 

अनी ठुलो भएपछिको । 

बदली रहन्छन् ..

यिनै बाटोहरु  काट्दा काट्दै  

बित्ने रहेछ जिन्दगी 

तिनै बाटोहरुमा हिड्दा हिड्दै। 

Keshar Maya Jimi

‘A life full of struggle, hard work and a helping hand to a successful man’

It is a story of my grandmother Keshar Maya Jimi. 

In the village of Tamaphuk which was famously called ‘Dash Majhiya’ ( Land of ten landlords), there was a beautiful neighbourhood ‘Otema Tole’ ( Plain land). By it’s name, the village had large plain lands unlike other hills of Nepal. The village faced north to Mount Makaalu, which meant it was full of greenery and water resources.

The people depended on agriculture as their livelihoods. They produced grains like maize, barley, soybean, rice and mustard. The village was also famous for kitchen garden. They had broad mustard leaf, raddish, Chayote( Iskus)onion and chillies. The villagers used to produce garlic and mustard seeds for the cash crop and used to sell in the far market of Chainpur (biggest in the district).

 Some people opted for British Army and some people used to go to ‘Assam’ (Mostly to North East of India) for searching their fortunes.

Among these families, there was a family of Mr XXX who was the landlord of the village. He had two sons, but no trace of daughters. The youngest son’s name was Yamun Sing Lingkha who had two wives. When he was a child, he was married to a girl and that girl as a tradition remained in her ‘Maiti’( Parents home).As the time passed, the girl was expecting a child from different man while her stay in Maiti. The Maiti people wanted to give the responsibility to formal married husband to save their pride. But Yamun Sing Lingkha didn’t accept the baby so he had to face legal procedure to prove his innocence. He struggle his whole life in this matter but he couldn’t get justice at the end too.

The second wife was .......... He had four daughters and two sons with his second wife. The two sons died at an early age. The second wife died after giving birth to last son. Then he never got married. He provided his family by agriculture and he was also a good carpenter. He used to go to Chainpur for the carpentry work. The income source was good and so was his daily living. He had a large house and the design was like a house from the Chainpur. He had a large garden with a large pond near his house. The garden was full of flowers like scented roses, red flowers, pink flowers, night queen flowers. The aroma of the flowers spread day and night.

The large pond had it’s own story. Once, the village was caught with fire and the water from the pond was used to extinguish the fire. Similarly, a person was chased by the large murder hornet and he went beneath the water in the pond and saved his life.

He was a progressive man as he travelled to Kathmandu many times for this justice. It used to take one month to travel to Kathmandu from his village and a lot of resources like rice, clothing, utensils and men. In the village, the thatched roof need a lot of Khaar( material especially for roof). People had to go to dangerous cliffs to get it. But he had planted them in his land so that no accidents occur while getting it which was a rare sight. No people planted such thing in their agricultural land. 

Keshar Maya Jimi was the second daughter of Yamun Sing Lingkha. 

 

लकडाउन

म : उहानमा लकडाउन खुलेछ ।
छोरा : हामी उहान जाम न त ।  

दिनहरु

आज मिति १३ अगस्त  २०१९ ।
मेरो छोरा निवा  पनि सात बर्ष पुगेर आठ  लाग्यो । अहिले कक्षा २ मा पढ्दै छ ।मेरो जिन्दगी उसैको सेरोफेरोमा बितिरहेछ । उसलाई स्कुल लाने । पढाउने । नुहाउने । घुमाउने । आदी  कामहरु नै मुख्य काम हरु  हुन ।

 यसो सोच्दा लाग्छ जिन्दगी यतिकै कट्दो  रहेछ । फरक फरक अनुभब हरु मा । आफु केटा केटी हुँदाको अनुभब । बिद्यार्थी हुँदाको अनि कामकाजी हुँदाको र अहिले बच्छ हुर्काउदाको । सबै अनुभब हरु मा आफ्नो आफ्नो तितो मिठो कथा हुदो रहेछ । अहिले सम्झदा पुरानो अनुभब रमाइलो लाग्छ अनि फेरी पछी फेरी फर्केर हेर्दा अहिलेको अवस्था को मिस गर्न थालिदो रहेछ ।

सन्तानको माया पनि अचम्मको हुदो रहेछ । जती माया ख नाए पनि  नसकिने । एकोहोरो । कहिले काही डर लाग्छ । धेरै मायाको । अनि फेरी म आफैलाई सम्झन  पुग्छु । जिन्दगी चक्र रहेछ । घुमी रहने ।

छोरा र Barry

म : Barry आउदै छ हाम्रो घरमा।  उ संग english मा कुरा गर्नु पर्छ है। 
छोरा : उ पनि स्कूल जान्छ हो ? ( स्कूल मा english बोल्नु पर्ने भएकोले )
म : जादैन
छोरा : अनी   के गर्छ त ?
म :  ऊ घरमै बस्छ, बुढो  छ नि त। 
छोरा: म पनि बुढो  हुने !

वर्ल्ड कप

फुच्चे केटा : उ त्या
उसको आमा : के
फुच्चे केटा : अर्जेन्टीनाकोभेस्ट
उसको आमा : हिड छिटो 

Becoming Farmer

Experience
The first thing I grew was bell chilli ( dalle khursani) in 2014. My mother sowed bell chillies seed during her visit to my work station in Charikot. As those seed grew day by day, the need of transplanting to another pot was necessary. So, I managed to collect some soil from the surrounding and planted those seedling. i used my vegetable waste for the plant nutrients. The chillies grew so well that I got good harvest. That little success encouraged me towards growing vegetables and always had a dream of planting other vegetables.

Plot
My mother had been growing vegetables in one ropani of land near our house at Swoyambhu. she planted asparagus,corns, garlic, turmeric, green leafy vegetables( rayo, tori, choisom etc) and beans. Before one year, she left for australia where my brothers live. so the responsibility of maintaining the land came to me. First, I was so worried as I had never been into growing veggies.

Basics
The only basic thing I knew for taking care of plants was that to remove unnecessary weeds. The important vegetable in that garden is asparagus. It is perennial plant so,  the weeds should be removed time and again. I couldn't take care of corns so they turned into yellow plants. I took care of strawberries so the harvesting was quiet good. My son's organic fruit supplement is fulfilled with strawberries. I was happy. I learned to harvest garlic. The three months went so quickly and mother returned back.

This year
This year, my mom went to australia again and for long time. the responsibility is for longer time. so i was worried and was determined to do something new in the garden. With the help of father, I managed to plant some cucumber, pumpkin, corn, snake beans, bitter brinjal (bihi). 

Time
I generally work 2 hours in the evening, mostly 5-7 pm. the temperature is good at that time. the weeding takes most of the time.

Google help
I was watching all the plants closely all the time. The cucumbers were one of them. Though the sapling sprout on the ground, the development was not good. the leaves of the cucumber plants were turning white. this was giving me a tension so i googled about problem. it said that the calcium deficiency is the cause behind it. so, I burnt some paper and newspaper to get some ashes which contain calcium, phosphorus and other minerals. I put the ashes on those cucumbers. suddenly, the next day the height of the plant grew tremendously.  I was so happy and dreamt of tiny cucumbers growing. After that i searched google for everything. like removing weeds, gardening tips etc.

The joy of becoming farmer moment
The cucumbers bloomed and the tiny cucumbers came to shape. one day, i was watching every node of the cucumbers so carefully and suddenly there it was' Eureka ! a medium size cucumber '. behind the leaves. I was so so happy. The happiness can't be defined in words. my first cucumber. after the full growth, i couldn't pick. the love for my cucumber restricted to pick. after some attempt, i had to pick as it was going to mature soon. But the memories of growing has remained so fresh in my mind and yes i have pictures for refreshing my memories.

Other vegetables

Asparagus:
 I pick 5-10 sticks every day.

Green leafy vegetables grows time to time. radish ( gante mula), latte, choisum, nettle (sisnu) are there which is enough for my family. 

tomatoes: they grew itself and are fruiting right now

snake beans are there and three harvest has been already done.

Bitter brinjal ( Bihi) are flowering and i hope to get a good harvest soon. there are almost about 20 plants in the garden.

strawberries: 8-10 fruits per day.

Ladies finger

Ground apples

Chillies

My first cucumber

First cucumber bloom

good harvest from the garden

Asparagus

choisom

gardening tools

ground apple

यस्तो पनि

स्थान : स्वयम्भु चोक
समय : दिउँसो को  साढे तिन देखि सवा चार सम्म

घट्ना १
सिम सिम पानी परिरहेको छ।  छाता  ओडेर म छोराको स्कूल बस कुरिरहेको छु।  त्यसै बेला एक पाको महिला छिटो छिटो आइपुग्छीन।  छाता नभएकोले छिटो छिटो गाडी चड्न खोज्छिन।  तर उनको गन्तब्यको गाडी आउँदैन। सायद नेपाली भाषा आउँदैन उनलाई त्यसैले गलत गाडी मा चढ्दै  वोर्लिदै गर्छिन। 
 म उनको नजिक जान्छु अनि  छाता शेयर गर्छु।  उनको गाडी आउंछ  अनि मतिर हेर्दै मुस्कुराउँदै जान्छिन। 

घट्ना २
एउटा स्कूल बस आउँछ।  एउटा सानी नानी ८ -१० वर्षा को गाड़ी बाट वोर्लिनछिन।  पारी पट्टी उनको आमा ब्यापारमा ब्यस्त होला।  एता बाट त्यो नानी ले बोलाएको सुन्दिनन।  म बाटो काटन मदद गर्छु।  उ कुदेर आमाको मा जान्छे। 

घट्ना ३
एउटा छुर्पी बेच्ने महिला छुर्पी बेच्दै आउँछिन। म छुर्पी किनेर छुर्पी खाँदै छोरा को बस कुर्छु।  

दाँत र गाँजर

छोराको भित्रको दाँत किराले खाएको छ।  गाँजर  दिएको त्यही दाँतमा अड्केछ।

छोरा : गाँजर  अड्केछ आमा निकालिदिनु न।
म : ए किराले खाएको दाँतमा  अड्के छ।
छोरा : किराले गाँजर  खाँन्छ कि ?