‘Echoes of the Himalayas’ Celebrates Nepalese Culture in London

London, 6th February 2025 – The ‘Echoes of the Himalayas’ event, organised by Nepal Centre UK, successfully held today in London, celebrating Nepalese heritage through art, music, literature, and cultural performances.

The event brought together a diverse audience, highlighting Nepal’s rich traditions and honouring individuals for their exceptional contributions to culture, peace, and harmony.

The event opened with welcome remarks from Manish Tiwari, MD of Here and Now 365 and spokesperson for Nepal Centre UK, who emphasised the importance of cultural exchange and the role of Nepal Centre in fostering global appreciation for Nepalese traditions.

Renowned photographer Kishor Kayastha, who has spent two decades capturing the essence of Nepal, took the audience on a visual journey through Nepal’s landscapes, offering a profound insight into its timeless beauty and rich culture.

The event also featured a vibrant Tharu dance performance, led by Kabiraj Chaudhary, celebrating the cultural heritage of the Tharu community, whose traditional dances are becoming increasingly rare due to modernisation.

Adding to the literary richness of the programme, poets Kumar Nagarkoti, Nirvik Rayamajhi, and Sangita Swechcha captivated the audience with powerful poetry readings, reflecting the depth of Nepalese storytelling and expression.

The event also shed light on The Himalayan Award ceremony, held on 4th February at the House of Lords, where seven distinguished individuals from various countries were recognised for their outstanding contributions.

The audience was enthralled by musical performances from Pramod Sharma and his team, featuring Manoj Anjan on sarangi, Khem Gautam on damphu, and Pramod Sharma on madal, showcasing the richness of traditional Nepalese music. Pramod Sharma also captivated the audience with multiple solo performances, singing a selection of traditional and classical songs.

In addition, Sneha Shrestha, barrister and singer, delivered an engaging set, performing songs in Nepali, Hindi, and English, further highlighting the fusion of Nepalese culture with global influences.

A Certificate of Appreciation was presented to individuals who have played a vital role in supporting Nepal Centre’s mission. Honourees included Mr Shashikant Patel, a strong pillar of the Nepalese community in the UK; P Singh, an artist and long-time contributor to Nepal Centre’s art exhibitions; and Mr Phiroj Maharjan, a craftsman from Kirtipur, Nepal, whose vision of Newar culture can be experienced at SaSa Twa, an iconic eatery in Kathmandu. Other recipients included Pramod Sharma, classical singer; Nirvik Jung Rayamajhi, poet and literary contributor; Sangita Swechcha, poet and coordinator of Nepal Centre UK; and Tank Dhamala, for his dedication to preserving Nepalese music and culture.

Speaking at the event, Mayor of Royal Borough of Greenwich, Jit Ranabhat, emphasised the importance of preserving culture and praised events like this for their role in keeping traditions alive. Robin Marsh, Secretary General of Universal Peace Federation (UPF) UK, highlighted the value of cultural events in promoting peace and harmony.

Nirmal Kumar Thapa, Founder of Nepal Centre UK

The event concluded with a heartfelt thank you note from Nirmal Kumar Thapa, Founder of Nepal Centre UK, who expressed deep gratitude to all supporters, sponsors, and participants. Special thanks were extended to Here and Now 365, UPF UK, Gini London, The Lamichhane Foundation, and the many individuals who contributed to the success of the event.

The ‘Echoes of the Himalayas’ successfully honoured Nepalese heritage, celebrated artistic talent, and strengthened cultural connections. Nepal Centre UK remains committed to promoting Nepalese culture globally, ensuring that the voices, traditions, and artistic expressions of Nepal continue to thrive on the international stage.