Doha, 27 June 2026

Bagmati Province Coordination Council Qatar recently celebrated the 23rd National Paddy Day and Dahi Chiura (Curd and Beaten Rice) Eating Day, bringing together the Nepali diaspora and representatives from several communities under the theme, “The aspiration of all Nepalis: A vision of a peaceful and prosperous Nepal.”

The event highlighted Nepal's rich agricultural heritage while promoting cultural harmony and friendship among the diverse communities living in Qatar.

The celebration was attended by Krishna Panthi, President of the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) Qatar; Kabindra Kandel, President of Bagmati Province Coordination Council Qatar; Sagar Nepal, founder member of NRNA Qatar and founder of the council; Nandan Dhungana, Patron of the council; and advisory member Raj Devkota.

AP.Manikantan, President of Indian Cultural Centre; Anwer Hussain, President of Bangladesh Community; renowned journalist Ashraf Siddiqui; Marco Polo, Country Coordinator of Building and Woodworks, Philippines community; Sirajul Islam, President of Bangladesh Migrant Workers Association; Nijam Khan, President of Rajasthan Welfare Association; and Shanker Gaut, President of Telangana Gulf Samitee Qatar, also participated, displaying the event's multicultural spirit.

Among other prominent community leaders were presidents and representatives of various province-level organisations.

The formal programme began with the traditional lighting of the ceremonial lamp by chief guest Krishna Panthi, founder patron Sagar Nepal, programme coordinator and Vice President Ram Hari Chaulagain, and Council President Kabindra Kandel.

Addressing the gathering, Krishna Panthi highlighted NRNA Qatar's ongoing initiatives and activities aimed at supporting the Nepali community. Kabindra Kandel said it was a matter of pride for Nepalis in Qatar to share their language, traditions and festivals with the wider international community. He expressed confidence that cultural exchange, friendship and cooperation among different communities in Qatar would continue to grow.

Founder Sagar Nepal congratulated the organising team for the successful event and thanked members, patrons, advisers, district organisations and volunteers for their dedication. He said their continued support remained invaluable and reaffirmed the council's commitment to organising more meaningful community programmes in the future.

Earlier, Vice President of the Women's Wing Mamata Rana Bhat welcomed guests and participants. Ram Hari Chaulagain performed the popular song Hariyo Danda Mathi and extended greetings on the occasion of National Paddy Day and Dahi Chiura Day. Members of the Nepali business community and professionals also shared their views.

The celebration concluded with colourful cultural performances by local artists. A welcome dance titled Ganga + Jamuna set the tone for the programme, followed by live performances by singers Sumitra Bhattarai, Birendra Shrestha, Suman Khadka, Guna Magar, Narayan Devkota, Babu Kaushal and Laxmi Karki. Traditional dances by Asmita Lamichhane, Manita Sunam, Pukar Thapa, Jamuna B.K. and Sumitra Budha Chhetri captivated the audience.

The programme was hosted by General Secretary Ganga Bahadur Sunuwar, with Deputy General Secretary Dinesh Adhikari serving as co-host. The event concluded with a renewed commitment to preserving Nepali culture while strengthening bonds with the international community in Qatar.