Educating and Entertaining

After five years of successfully hosting the Himalayan Night, Namaste Nepal, the Nepalese student association on campus, is back for another year.

The event is a way of showcasing the Nepalese culture to the Truman and Kirksville, Mo. communities. The show consists of a wide array of Nepalese dances, skits, fashion show, presentations and food.  Given the diverse nature of the Nepali society and Nepalese students in Truman, Himalayan Night is a must go event for diversity enthusiasts.  The show provides a unique opportunity to experience a completely different culture. Through the show, the Nepalese students attempt to educate while entertaining.

Photo from: http://namaste.truman.edu/Gallery/Pages/Himalayan_Nite_09.html#8

Himalayan Night is a good opportunity for people to experience diversity who have not had a chance to travel around the globe. As an international student from Nepal, I recognize the importance cultural events play for both the audience and the hosts.  While Himalayan night offers a chance for Nepali students to represent their roots, it gives the domestic students a chance to appreciate it. It is a refreshing break from the sometimes mundane way of life in the flatlands of America. And although the show is hosted and organized in the heart of the Midwest, the students manage to provide a pretty authentic replica of the Nepali culture. The food provided is prepared from scratch by the students. The dishes selected for the event range from a simple day to day meal to a dish prepared solely during festivity. The dances are performed by students who are trained and semi-proficient in genuine Nepali dancing.

Photo from: http://namaste.truman.edu/Gallery/Pages/Himalayan_Nite_09.html#8

The Nepalese students are very hospitable, and try to treat each guest in the old Sanskrit tradition of: aatithi devo bhava (Guest is god). In Hindu mythology, many a times a deity would enter a household by disguising themselves as a stranger looking for food and shelter. And the household of those who served this “stranger” well was blessed. Thus, it is believed that guests are god. Turning god away or not treating him well is just not accepted.

I recommend this event to anyone who is looking to learn about diversity. You will surely be treated to good entertainment, and if you are hungry college student like me, an all-you-can meal is available for $5.

This year’s event is on March 21, at 7:30 p.m. in the Georgian room of the Student Union Building. To reserve tickets please email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . See you there!