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On June 29, National Paddy Day, ‘Asar Pandra’, was celebrated in Bhaktapur marking the rice planting season despite a late onset of monsoon. Farmers and locals gathered in the fields, planted rice seedlings and engaged in playful mud fights. The tradition is believed to bring good luck. 

The festival also featured the sharing of beaten rice (chiura) mixed with yogurt (dahi), symbolizing the region’s agricultural heritage.

This year, the late monsoon posed significant challenges, with insufficient natural water sources for planting. Farmers had to pump water into their fields, increasing their workload and expenses. Despite these hurdles, the community’s resilience shone through.

“National Paddy Day is vital for us,” said a farmer. “We will do whatever it takes to ensure a good harvest.”

The celebration highlighted the enduring spirit of farmers and their deep connection to the land, upholding traditions amidst changing climatic conditions.

Kathmandu witnessed a vibrant celebration on June 8 as hundreds of LGBTIQA+ members and youths took part in the Pride Parade. Organized by the Nepal Pride Parade, the rally marked a significant event in the pride month of June. Participants marched from Ratnapark, Kathmandu to Naxal Narayan Chaur, showcasing their solidarity and demanding equal rights. 

The parade, which witnessed colorful flags, banners, and lively chants, reflected the community’s spirit and resilience.

At the end of the march, a concert was organized, adding to the festive atmosphere. The event underscored the ongoing struggle for LGBTIQA+ rights in Nepal, highlighting both progress and the challenges that remain to be addressed.

Pride Month, celebrated globally in June, commemorates the Stonewall riots and continues to promote awareness, acceptance, and love. The Kathmandu Parade was a testament to the growing visibility and support for the LGBTIQA+ community in the Himalayan nation.

The LOD Club in Thamel, Kathmandu, hosted the exhilarating ‘Nepal Warriors Championship,’ an MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) event organized by Paradygm Sports Network. The event featured nine matches, including seven amateur and two professional bouts, drawing fighters from Nepal, India, and Australia. This marked the biggest edition of the event. The first two were held at Tapout Fitness Nepal in Maharajgunj, Kathmandu.

The championship drew many spectators, creating a vibrant and electric atmosphere. Enthusiastic fans and curious onlookers filled the venue, eager to witness the intense competition.

The highlight of the evening came in the form of professional matches. In the eighth match, Shahil Khatri of Nepal triumphed over Bishal Shahu of India, showcasing his superior skill and strategy. The final match saw another victory for Nepal, with Rabindra Dhant defeating Australia’s Korey Sutcliffee, further energizing the home crowd.

The amateur fights provided a platform for emerging talent, with fighters displaying impressive skill and determination. “There’s a lot of scope for growth in Nepal’s MMA scene. But we need better opportunities and sponsorships,” says Dhant. 

Paradygm Sports Network’s successful organization of the Nepal Warriors Championship highlighted the sport’s expanding reach and the talent within Nepal. The event demonstrated the importance of supporting local athletes to elevate their presence in the global MMA arena.

The Miss Pink Beauty Pageant Nepal, a vibrant celebration of diversity and inclusion, was recently held at the Rastriya Nachghar in Jamal on May 16. Organized by the Blue Diamond Society, this event marked the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia, Transphobia, and Aphobia, highlighting the ongoing fight for transgender and LGBTIQA+ rights in Nepal.

The pageant was a stunning display of talent and grace as transgender women took to the runway, showcasing their beauty and resilience. Participants, adorned in exquisite attire, graced the stage with performances that captivated the audience.

The pageant is more than just a beauty contest. It’s a crucial platform for transgender women to express their identity and advocate for their rights. The Blue Diamond Society's efforts in organizing this event underscore the importance of visibility and representation for transgender individuals in society. 

The pageant not only celebrates the beauty and talent of transgender women but also fosters a sense of community and belonging.

Anmol Rai was the winner, her poise and charisma earning her the coveted title. Sarosy Neupane was the first runner-up, while Aarohi Basnet secured the second runner-up position, both demonstrating exceptional charm and confidence.

As the newly crowned Miss Pink, Rai’s journey is set to inspire many within and beyond the LGBTIQA+ community, encouraging a more inclusive and accepting society. The event marks a significant step forward in the ongoing struggle for transgender rights and recognition in Nepal.

In a stunning show of elegance, Bollywood star Jacqueline Fernandez seized the spotlight as she graced the ramp as the showstopper for RB Diamond Jewellery during a fashion show held in Kathmandu on Saturday evening. 

Adorned in resplendent diamonds and exquisite attire, Fernandez mesmerized the audience with her graceful strides and radiant charm. Her presence added an extra layer of allure to the event, showcasing RB Diamond Jewellery’s latest collection. The event attracted fashion enthusiasts, celebrities, and industry insiders alike, all eager to witness the fusion of haute couture and fine jewelry.

Alongside Bollywood star Fernandez, Nepali models Samir Shrestha and Wangdem Sherpa, as well as the brand ambassador of RB Diamond, also graced the ramp.

Fernandez arrived in Nepal on Friday evening upon an invitation from RB Diamond for the fashion show marking the 27th anniversary of RB Diamond Jewellery. She was warmly welcomed by Riken Maharjan, the chief executive of RB Diamond.