May 2005

This was my official invitation to attend any of the functions that were to take place over the next few days of celebration at Karnadhar School. The main celebration took place on May 9th, and the day began with an early morning worship of the goddess Saraswati. She is the Goddess of Learning, Creative Arts and Wisdom, for whom the six sided star is her auspicious symbol.

2062-01-26. The Bikram Sambat calendar is the official calendar of Nepal and so the date above is correct for 2005-05-09 or May 9th.

A hot sunny morning with the views from the school at their sparkling best. Some students would arrive early, about 7am, to worship Saraswati and bring offerings of rice, flowers, incense and fruit.

As each guest arrived they were welcomed with a tika (red coloured rice in the forehead). The staff were already busy preparing dal bhaat for breakfast.

Members of the community who, over the years, have contributed greatly to the school were presented with medals and framed certificates. One lady's grandfather had bought education to Rupse when he returned as a Captain in the Indian Army. Of course then India was under British rule and so the education system began on English lines.

Lokendra had coreographed and written new songs for the occasion, and he and his students entertained the guests with some truly beautiful dancing.

There were many speeches interspersed with dancing and more snacks, or Prasad, which is a gift from the deity, for everyone.

All the westerners who have contributed were remembered and certificates presented. Since I was the one fortunate to be present, I recieved them on their behalf.