Dartford Nepalese Community (DNC) came together to celebrate Dashain Tihar 2024 with grandeur and enthusiasm, marking another successful year of community bonding and cultural pride. The event was a beautiful blend of tradition, recognition, and entertainment, reflecting the spirit of Dashain and Tihar, two of the most significant festivals in the Nepalese calendar.
Session 1: Formal Programme
The evening began with a formal program led by our General Secretary, Anukram Rijal, and chaired by Dr. Bina Ghimire, DNC Chairperson. We were honored to have a distinguished group of guests, including Cllr Jeremy Kite MBE, Leader of the Council; Mr. Avtar Sandhu MBE, President of Dartford Lions Club; and several prominent figures from the Nepalese and local community. The session started with the illumination of the Panas by Dr. Bina Ghimire and Cllr Jeremy Kite, symbolizing the light of unity and prosperity.
Following the national anthem, we observed a moment of silence in remembrance of Armistice Day and the lives lost in the recent earthquake in Western Nepal. The speeches delivered by our esteemed guests, including Cllr Jeremy Kite, Mrs. Rosanna Currans, and Mr. Tom Oliver, highlighted the importance of cultural events like these in strengthening community ties and celebrating diversity. The session concluded with heartfelt closing remarks from Dr. Bina Ghimire, followed by messages from our sponsors and an exciting raffle announcement.
Session 2: Celebration and Felicitations
The second session of the evening was dedicated to celebrating the achievements and contributions of our community members. We recognized Prakash Thapa for his outstanding contribution to sports, and Dr. Chandika Bhatta for achieving a PhD, marking significant milestones in their respective fields. Additionally, Mr. Lekh Nath Kharel, the immediate past president of DNC, was honored for his invaluable contributions to the community. We also celebrated the academic achievements of our younger members, presenting awards to students for their excellent performance in GCSE and A-Level exams. The session ended with a warm welcome to new residents of Dartford, further solidifying our commitment to growing and supporting our vibrant community.
Session 3: Cultural Programme
The cultural segment of the evening was a feast for the senses, showcasing the talents of our local performers. From group dances like “Barsha Din ko Chad Baad” and “Tiharai Aayo Lai Jhilimi” to solo performances such as “Surma Surmilai” by Alena Poudel, the stage was alive with the colors and rhythms of Nepalese culture. A special highlight was Fiona Maharjan’s rendition of Adele’s “Rolling in the Deep,” adding a unique touch to the evening’s performances. The cultural program, coordinated by Gajendra Katuwal and Sashi Gurung, with support from Bharat Lamichane and Bidur Ghimire, was a true celebration of our community’s diverse talents.
Session 4: National Singers and Dance Floor
The final session of the evening was a lively and joyous affair, featuring performances by renowned national singers Basanta Sapkota and Umadevi Khanal. Their soulful music captivated the audience, setting the perfect mood for the open dance floor that followed. As the night progressed, community members of all ages joined in the celebrations, dancing and singing together, creating an atmosphere of joy and unity.
A Night to Remember
The DNC Dashain Tihar 2024 celebration was more than just an event; it was a testament to our shared heritage and the strength of our community. Through recognition, cultural expression, and joyous celebration, we came together to honor our traditions and look forward to a prosperous future. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the participants, guests, and volunteers who made this event a resounding success. Here’s to many more years of celebrating our culture and community together!
Add a Comment