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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.

In nearly three decades of photojournalism, I have had the opportunity to visit many of the world’s major cities, including New York, Mumbai, Tokyo, and Hong Kong. During these travels, I captured stunning images of their iconic skyscrapers. However, last Monday, I experienced something unique closer to home. 

In Damak, a city in the eastern part of Nepal’s Koshi province, I had the chance to photograph an 18-story view tower in Dapagachi, a rural village just 10 kilometers north of Damak. This tower, the tallest in the area, offered a striking contrast to the urban skyscrapers he was accustomed to photographing.

What made this experience even more fascinating was the juxtaposition of the tower against the rural backdrop. Unlike the towering structures in global cities, this view tower stood amidst open fields, with cows and goats grazing nearby and piles of straw dotting the landscape. This unusual setting made the photograph of the tower particularly captivating. 

I believe that with proper promotion, this tower, even if not ideal for business purposes, has the potential to attract foreign tourists. The blend of modern architecture and rustic scenery offers a unique charm that is rarely seen in the world’s metropolitan areas.

The Mr & Miss SEE ASIA 2024 pageant concluded at Rastriya Nach Ghar on Friday, crowning Arick Rana and Pratikshya Bishwokarma as Mr and Miss SEE ASIA 2024. Organized by Shah Studio and Company Pvt Ltd, the event celebrated the exceptional talents and poise of the participants. 

Anil Sarki and Prinsha Majhi secured the 1st Runner-Up positions, Sajana Basnet was honored as the 2nd Runner-Up, and Supriya Karki claimed the 3rd Runner-Up spot. 

The competition showcased the diverse beauty and talent across the region, marking a memorable night for all involved.

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.