In Kathmandu, the capital city, wildlife conservationists and officials have enthusiastically welcomed the significant increase in the number of tigers. According to the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation, there are currently 429 adult tigers in Nepal. However, Manisha Singh Tharu, Vice Chairperson of Rapti Sonari Rural Municipality in Lumbini Province, cautioned that the rise in tiger numbers should not be a source of joy for local communities alone. “Since the formation of the local government, 10-15 people in this rural municipality have lost their lives due to tiger attacks. Therefore, they are not enthusiastic about the increase in tiger population,” Tharu explained.
Most of Rapti Sonari Rural Municipality falls within Banke National Park, where surveys have shown the tiger population has reached 51. Conservationists agree with the concern raised by Tharu. Baburam Lamichhane, a tiger conservation expert, expressed worries about the sustainability of conservation efforts, stating, “An increase in population is indeed a conservation success, but the most important thing is that humans must not lose their lives. Conservation can only be sustainable if human casualties due to tigers or other wildlife are zero.”
Conservationist Kumar Paudel also emphasized that conservation programs cannot be deemed fully successful based on numbers alone. He said, “This is only a partial success until local communities living alongside tigers accept the coexistence happily.” Officials from the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation have also recognized the population growth as a challenge. Deputy Director General Vedkumar Dhakal said, “Over the past four years, the adult tiger population has increased at an annual rate of 5 percent. We are happy about this, but as challenges increase, so too will our responsibilities.”
The results of a recent tiger survey were released on Wednesday, coinciding with World Tiger Day. In 2022, Nepal’s tiger population was 355. According to the latest figures, Chitwan National Park and its surrounding areas host the highest number of tigers at 145. Bardiya National Park and adjacent forest areas have 112 tigers. Parsa National Park counts 71, Banke National Park has 51, and Shuklaphanta National Park houses 50 tigers.
Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi have protested against India’s new Education Minister Pralhad Joshi, accusing him of defending rapists. During a Lok Sabha session, Priyanka Gandhi raised these allegations, which Minister Joshi denied on the floor. He subsequently issued an apology under Rule 353. Meanwhile, parliamentarians reached a consensus to extend the discussion on the Public Examination (Amendment) Bill, 2026, related to paper leaks, to eight hours. Kathmandu, 13 Shrawan.
The statement by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi regarding the new Education Minister, Pralhad Joshi, sparked significant controversy. Joshi was assigned the education portfolio on Saturday following the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan. Outside parliament, Rahul Gandhi accused Joshi of supporting the release of rapists, including those who assaulted pregnant women.
Rahul Gandhi said, “After the education minister resigned, students protested and were beaten with batons. Subsequently, the BJP appointed a person in the cabinet who defends rapists.” He added, “The Prime Minister’s response to this is unusual.” In response, Pralhad Joshi stated in the Lok Sabha, “Madam Priyanka must provide proof, otherwise action should be taken against her for spreading false information.”
The monsoon session of parliament was highly eventful on Tuesday. Discussions began in the Lok Sabha on the ‘Public Examinations (Amendment) Bill, 2026,’ concerning paper leaks. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju announced that all parties agreed to extend the allotted six hours of debate by an additional two hours, making it eight hours in total.
India’s 15-year-old batsman Vaibhav Suryavanshi has surged 230 places in the ICC T20 International batting rankings to achieve a career-best 48th position. Following his remarkable performance of 151 runs in the series against Zimbabwe, where he was named Player of the Series, Suryavanshi’s current rating has reached 536 points.
Indian batsman Ishan Kishan remains firmly at the top with a rating of 916 points, setting the third-highest rating record in T20 International history. Kathmandu, 13th August.
During the three-match series against Zimbabwe held in Harare, Suryavanshi amassed 151 runs at an average of 50.33. His outstanding performance earned him the Player of the Series award for the first time in his career.
Ishan Kishan continues to lead the batting rankings for India. After an excellent innings of 81 runs in the second match against Zimbabwe, he achieved a career-high rating of 916 points. Although Suryavanshi is still behind India’s more experienced batsmen, his rapid progress within a short period highlights his strong potential for the future.
Narendra Kumar Kerung is a member of the House of Representatives elected from Panchthar representing the Nepali Congress. Since the election held on 21st Falgun, 41 sessions of the federal parliament have been conducted, and Kerung has attended every one of them. Media professional Giriraj Banskota spoke with Kerung about his attendance record, parliamentary experience, and recent political activities. Presented here is an edited excerpt of that conversation:
With Prime Minister Balendra Shah attending only six sessions and CPN leader Pushpa Kamal Dahal attending five, you have been present at all 41 meetings. What drives your enthusiasm? The people of Panchthar have entrusted me with a great responsibility, and it is my duty to fulfill it with honesty. The residents of Panchthar have assigned me the role of raising their concerns and the issues affecting the entire country in parliament. Therefore, I endeavor to be present at every session. While missing parliament does not carry the punishment of a teacher sounding a whistle for absence in school, I always feel a sense of fear — voters expect me to work and raise issues concerning public life in the House.
Every question and problem raised by MPs in parliament serves as a learning experience for me. It provides an opportunity to hear voices from all electoral constituencies across the country. That is why issues brought forth by all representatives must be taken seriously and sensitively. Attending parliament offers a chance to understand the country from a close perspective. No parliamentary agenda is less or more important; as a representative, participating in discussions brings a sense of satisfaction and deepens one’s understanding of the nation. You lost your temper once in parliament—how was that experience? That situation arose due to the immediate circumstances; it was not a premeditated act.
Maintaining the dignity and decorum of the House, all MPs from the ruling and opposition sides are equal. Large party members should not belittle members from smaller parties. Once in parliament, all members have equal status. If any large party looks down on a smaller one, it will face strong opposition. After that incident, the ruling party MPs changed their outlook, and the morale of the opposition MPs increased. The perception that “all MPs are equal” became widespread. Therefore, I believe what I did was justified.
A court in Moldova has declared the non-profit organization ‘ANO Eurasia’ as an extremist entity. Aleona Arvisnova, a member of the Russian State Duma, sharply criticized Moldova’s judiciary, claiming it is influenced by Western interests. She asserted that the organization is purely engaged in humanitarian work and focuses on expanding people-to-people relations.
The Moldovan court’s designation of ‘ANO Eurasia’ as an extremist group was condemned by Russian State Duma member Aleona Arvisnova, who stated that Moldova’s judicial system is acting in the interests of President Maia Sandu and her Western supporters. Arvisnova herself is the head of the Eurasia organization. Speaking to TAS news agency, she said, “The Moldovan court has recognized ANO Eurasia as an extremist organization.”
Arvisnova further commented, “This decision once again confirms the complete corruption of Moldova’s judiciary. It clearly serves the interests of Maia Sandu’s Western backers.” She added, “In Moldova, it is a well-known practice to fabricate accusations to imprison major political figures and suppress dissent.”
According to her, the Eurasia organization is not involved in any political activity but is active in humanitarian efforts. Arvisnova stated, “ANO Eurasia is a purely humanitarian institution. We develop coordination projects aimed at bringing closer Russia, Moldova, the Eurasian Economic Union (EEU), the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), and the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) member countries. We prioritize grassroots dialogue without intermediaries. Our goal is to preserve the shared historical identity and traditional values of Russia, Moldova, and Europe. This is why our activities have caused concern among the Nepali political leadership.”
Arvisnova explained that Eurasia’s activities have become the main threat in the eyes of Europe and collective Western powers. These groups are attempting to divide people, create borders, and erase their shared history. Their aim, she said, is to make former Soviet Union countries forget their relations and common memories. She added, “Our humanitarian and friendly mission is undermining the plans of Brussels. Those plans had instructed President Maia Sandu to block Moldovan citizens from leaving so-called ‘European clans.’”
MAMS International Nepal organized a special event to honor record-holding karate athlete Sunil Lama and the emerging karate player Yangten Lama. Sunil Lama, a gold medalist at the 11th South Asian Games, along with his son Yangten Lama, were recognized for their significant contributions to the field of karate. Chief guest Surendra Shrestha presented certificates and ceremonial scarves to both athletes, and Sunil Lama expressed his gratitude. The event took place on 13th Shrawan in Kathmandu.
MAMS International Nepal acknowledged their role in promoting and advancing Nepali karate through this special program held on Wednesday. Sunil Lama, who won gold medals at the 11th South Asian Games held in Bangladesh and the 13th Asia Pacific Sitourio Karate Championship, was celebrated for bringing international success to Nepal.
His son, Yangten Lama, who has performed excellently in various national and international competitions, was also honored during the event. Currently residing in New York, USA, Sunil Lama actively promotes karate and nurtures new athletes by running the ‘Champions Martial Arts Academy’ both in New York and at Ranivan, Kathmandu.
Ranjita Lama, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MAMS International Nepal, expressed that honoring both experienced and emerging Nepali karate players on a single platform was a moment of pride for the organization. She also praised the Champions Martial Arts Academy for its support and warm welcome extended to athletes traveling from Nepal to America. The program’s chief guest and renowned drummer from the musical group ‘X Band’, Surendra Shrestha, honored both players by presenting certificates and ceremonial scarves.
Additionally, double gold medalist from the 13th SAG and national karate team coach Mande Kaji Shrestha, along with international karate athlete Suman Timilsina, also congratulated the players by draping scarves. Speaking after the honors, Sunil Lama expressed heartfelt thanks to the MAMS International Nepal family for recognizing his and his son’s achievements.
The Siraha District Administration has expressed serious concern regarding the rumors and hateful remarks spreading on social media following the recent incident in Sunsari district. Chief Assistant District Officer Chetraj Baral has urged everyone to refrain from actions that could disrupt social harmony and to avoid following misleading information. The administration has warned that individuals who disrupt religious or social harmony will face strict legal action.
July 28, Siraha – In response to the incident in Sunsari, the Siraha District Administration has appealed to all citizens to remain restrained, cautioning against the dissemination of misleading information, rumors, and hateful expressions on social media that could harm religious and communal harmony. On Wednesday, Assistant Chief District Officer Chetraj Baral issued a statement requesting people to avoid linking past events with recent incidents to create confusion, and to stay away from activities that spread hatred toward any religion, community, culture, or belief.
The administration emphasized that preserving the mutual unity, harmony, tolerance, and brotherhood among various ethnicities, languages, religions, and communities in Siraha is a shared responsibility of all citizens. Religious leaders, civil society, intellectuals, media professionals, and all stakeholders have been called upon to actively contribute to safeguarding social harmony. The administration has warned that individuals who incite social unrest, hurt religious sentiments, or engage in illegal activities will face stringent legal action under the National Penal Code 2074 and the Electronic Transactions Act 2063.
The Trump administration in the United States has imposed a ban on the import of humanoid and quadruped robots manufactured in China, citing national security risks. Additionally, the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has banned the import of power inverters used in data centers and solar panels. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr stated, “The agency is fulfilling its responsibility to safeguard America’s critical supply chains.”
The Trump administration announced the import ban on humanoid robots on Tuesday, emphasizing that these robots could pose a threat to national security. The administration deemed such risks unacceptable. The ban covers advanced robotic technologies, including humanoid and four-legged robots, most of which are produced in China.
China and the US are currently competing to lead in robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) sectors. The FCC also banned imports of power inverters used in data centers and solar panels, highlighting that these devices could pose threats to the US economy and critical infrastructure.
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr remarked, “The agency is carrying out its duty to protect America’s vital supply chains.” The FCC has placed these robots and inverters on its “covered list,” which includes goods and services deemed dangerous to US national security. There has been no official response from China on this matter so far.
Former assistant coach of India, Ryan Ten Doeschate, has been appointed as the Head of Cricket Strategy for the Night Riders Group. He will be responsible for player scouting, recruitment, and team-building strategies across all four Night Riders franchises. He played a key role in Kolkata winning the IPL title in 2024 and will begin his new role starting with the Caribbean Premier League. 13 Shrawan, Kathmandu.
The Night Riders Group announced Ten Doeschate’s appointment on Wednesday. Previously, he served for two years as the assistant coach of India’s men’s national cricket team. Shortly after stepping down from his role with the Indian team, he returned to the Night Riders Group in this new capacity. Ten Doeschate will now lead cricket strategy across the group’s four franchises: Kolkata Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League (IPL), Trinbago Knight Riders in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), Abu Dhabi Knight Riders in the International League T20 (ILT20), and Los Angeles Knight Riders in Major League Cricket (MLC).
His first responsibility will be with the Trinbago Knight Riders at the CPL, starting August 7. Speaking after his appointment, Ten Doeschate expressed excitement about rejoining the Night Riders family. He committed to collaborating closely with the coaching and analytical teams to enhance player scouting, strengthen talent development systems, and develop long-term cricket strategies. The 46-year-old has a long-standing association with the Night Riders, having started playing IPL with Kolkata in 2011 and helping the team secure titles in 2012 and 2014.
Venky Mysore, CEO of the Night Riders Group, expressed confidence that Ten Doeschate’s experience in franchise and international cricket will play a crucial role in the group’s future strategic growth. In his new position, he will lead comprehensive cricket strategies including player scouting, recruitment, team building, and performance evaluation. He will also renew his collaboration with Kolkata Knight Riders’ head coach Abhishek Nayar in the IPL.
A study conducted across various schools in India reveals that one out of every five adolescents is at moderate to high risk of substance abuse. The problem of addiction is widespread among students in schools and colleges. Research from the neighboring country confirms a rapid increase in addiction among school-going adolescents. The findings from a survey conducted during 2025–2026 were published in ‘The Lancet Regional Health—Southeast Asia.’ The study concluded that adolescents are at the highest risk of substance use.
The report covers a survey administered to 6,168 adolescents across 108 private and government schools in different districts of India. The researchers utilized screening methods recommended by the World Health Organization. Results indicate that one in five adolescents is at moderate to high risk of substance use, particularly tobacco smoking, alcohol, and other addictive substances. The surveyed schools were located in Gorakhpur (Uttar Pradesh), Kamrup (Assam), Nagpur (Maharashtra), Rajkot, Jharkhand, and Puducherry. The report states that 21.4% of adolescents face moderate or high risk, with 10.3% at moderate risk and 11.1% at high risk. Notably, schools in Guwahati and Deoghar showed a higher proportion of adolescents at high risk, whereas Nagpur and Puducherry reported lower risk levels.
The study identifies digital exposure as the primary factor increasing the risk of substance use among adolescents. As technology use rises, so does the likelihood of developing addiction. Researchers argue that the more time children spend online, the greater their exposure to negative influences and risk of substance abuse. Another significant factor highlighted in the survey is the easy availability of addictive substances. Additionally, adolescents’ favorable attitudes towards substance use further elevate the risk. Other important influences include school environment, socio-economic status, and individual personality traits, all of which contribute to drawing adolescents toward substance use, according to the report. The study emphasizes the need for multi-level interventions for prevention. It suggests that community-based efforts and peer-led initiatives among adolescents could effectively reduce this problem.
Ruling and opposition leaders have agreed that restraint must be practiced and long-term solutions sought to resolve the incidents in Sunsari.
Following the outbreak of communal tension in Sunsari, leaders attending the all-party meeting convened by the top leadership of the ruling party emphasized the importance of identifying the causes and roots of such incidents to find effective solutions. “We all realized that during such incidents, everyone must stand united,” said Ravi Lamichhane, chairperson of the National Independent Party, who organized the meeting.
However, Prime Minister Balendra Shah ‘Balen’ and Home Minister Sudhan Gurung did not participate in the meeting. Questions were raised specifically regarding the Prime Minister’s absence.
“We thank the chairperson of the National Independent Party, but the government must also be questioned – what is the government doing right now?” stated Gagan Thapa, opposition leader of the Nepali Congress.
Lamichhane responded that since it was an all-party meeting, the top leaders of each party participated. Only Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle represented the government side at the meeting.
Prime Minister’s Involvement
Image source, RSS
Opposition leader Gagan Thapa expressed that at such critical times, the Prime Minister must lead the dialogue with stakeholders.
“The government should not rely only on bullets and batons,” said Thapa. “The Prime Minister is not just a guardian but also a leader.
He must be able to cooperate, trust others, and only then others will trust him.”
“We don’t want to trouble the government, but I said in the meeting – why should the Prime Minister remain silent at a time like this? Isn’t it necessary to make efforts to unite everyone? We think the Prime Minister should act accordingly,” he added.
Also attending the meeting was Bishwa Raj Aangdembe, leader of the Nepali Congress parliamentary party.
According to CK Raut of the Janamat Party, almost all opposition leaders at the all-party meeting sought the presence of the Prime Minister and Home Minister.
“We have raised that the government itself should have organized this meeting,” Raut said. “Finance Minister Wagle shared his views, and the Prime Minister has already expressed himself on Facebook.”
Aryan Rai, MP from the Labor Culture Party, also questioned the Prime Minister’s absence.
“Even if the Prime Minister didn’t come, at least the Home Minister should have. This is the moment to see how sensitive the government is,” Rai said. “Finance Minister Wagle assured that the issues raised in the discussion would be conveyed to the Prime Minister.”
Seven-Point Appeal
The meeting issued a seven-point appeal aimed at maintaining harmony.
“There must be an awareness that impulsiveness and clashes do not resolve problems but only complicate them,” the appeal stated.
Political parties have directed their committees at provincial, district, and local levels to engage in all-party and inclusive dialogue to maintain peace.
“It is essential to strengthen activism at the local level by involving religious leaders, civil society, and administration,” the appeal added.
They urged maximum restraint, impartial investigation of the incident, legal action against the guilty, and appropriate compensation to victims, drawing the Nepal Government’s attention.
Other Discussions at the Meeting
Raut of the Janamat Party said that the meeting discussed pursuing long-term solutions to prevent the escalation of tensions.
“In times of crisis, all parties must come together to deliver a message. In this way, the meeting is a positive signal,” he added.
Aryan Rai, participant from the Labor Culture Party, said, “There is a risk of communal disasters in the country, and the importance of all parties standing united in one place was a key discussion.”
He noted that the use of force by security agencies during the Sunsari incident was also a topic of discussion.
“The government should not resort to force at all times; restraint must be exercised. We also discussed the need to improve the information system,” Rai added.
The meeting was also attended by UML General Secretary Shankar Pokharel and Rajendra Lingden, chairperson of the Rastriya Prajatantra Party.
Prime Minister Balen’s Appeal
Prime Minister Balendra Shah Balen stated that the government has conducted a serious review of the Sunsari incident and urged the public to maintain social harmony.
“The government will take responsible steps to prevent such incidents from recurring,” he wrote on Facebook Tuesday night.
“At such times, please restrain your excitement and anger. Our religion teaches the foremost duty is to preserve humanity, and the government must keep its citizens safe. The government will act swiftly to punish the guilty and ensure justice and compensation for the victims.”
He also acknowledged that despite the government’s presence at the incident site from the beginning, it was insufficient.
“Citizens lost their lives and were injured due to police firing. Such harm is in no way acceptable. Investigations are underway, and actions will be taken according to the law,” he said.
The Prime Minister’s Office and various political parties have also appealed for restraint and maintaining social harmony.
What is the Situation in Sunsari?
Image source, BBC/BIKRAM NIRAULA
Image caption, Demonstrations took place in Biratnagar on Tuesday
As tensions that began in Kapatanjganj failed to subside, considering security conditions, the Sunsari District Administration Office extended curfew to additional areas.
Chief District Officer Ishwari Prasad Aryal informed that after a meeting of the District Security Committee, a curfew has been enforced in more areas from 9 PM Tuesday night until further notice.
Curfew has been imposed in Itahari Sub-metropolitan Municipality wards 16 and 17, Ramdhuni Municipality wards 1 and 5 in the 200-meter area on both sides of Mahendra Highway, as well as in the Inneruwa and Duhabi Municipalities, Bhokraha Narsingh, Koshi, Gadhi, Dewanganj, Harinagar, and Barju rural municipalities.
During the curfew, movement in the designated areas is prohibited, as are gatherings, rallies, meetings, and any assemblies.
“There were reports of some vandalism from Kapatanjganj during the night,” said district administration spokesperson Poshan Lamichhane, “Following the curfew extension, the situation has relatively calmed down.”
Despite the curfew maintained in Kapatanjganj on Monday and Tuesday, reports indicated local protests. Security forces continue patrolling the area.
Cause of the Incident
Image caption, Dewanganj rural municipality borders India
According to reports, tensions started on Monday when one group preparing for the Bolbam pilgrimage placed a flag on an electric pole near another community and played a loud ‘DJ’ music, triggering unrest.
Local authorities stated that in Kapatanjganj, where the Muslim settlement starts near the market area, there is a Shiv temple, and clashes have previously occurred in this place.
After the escalation of tension, police intervention resulted in one death and several injuries.
The Home Ministry has formed a team to investigate the incident following discussions among the Home Minister, Home Secretary, and security agency chiefs. The team is led by Joint Secretary Bhupendra Thapa.
What is ‘DJ Music’?
In the Terai districts bordering India, the use of ‘DJ’ music has become increasingly popular over recent years during weddings, festivals, and fairs.
It is considered a common practice.
According to Pushpalal Chaudhary of Sunsari, the term ‘DJ’ refers to a music system installed in small open vans with eight to ten loudspeakers and horns.
Because lights are used, electricity consumption is high, so generators are also included.
The sound typically carries up to one to one and a half kilometers.
Besides religious and cultural programs, it is used in rallies, marches, and processions as well.
The loud sound of ‘DJ’ music reportedly played a role in escalating communal tension in Sunsari, prompting the neighboring Morang district to impose a ban on its use.
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Rescue efforts continue at a shopping center where people remain trapped following an earthquake in Kumamoto, located on Japan’s Kyushu island. Rescuers are searching through the rubble of the Aeon Mall in Kashima city for survivors. The earthquake has caused widespread power outages and significant damage to roads across the area. Officials reported that a section of a castle wall has collapsed, and an elevated pedestrian bridge has been completely destroyed.
More than 150,000 people have been displaced. Authorities have confirmed that over 40,000 homes are without electricity. Officials also noted that the chimney of a paper factory within Kumamoto Prefecture has collapsed, leaving some individuals unaccounted for. The Japanese government agency confirmed the earthquake’s magnitude at 7.1 on Tuesday, although the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) measured it as a magnitude 6.8.
The Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation has announced that the tiger population in Nepal has reached 429. The results of the recent tiger census were released on Wednesday to mark World Tiger Day. The Agriculture, Forest and Environment Minister, Gita Chaudhary, formally presented the findings. Since 2009, Nepal has conducted a tiger census every four years. The previous census in 2021 reported 355 tigers residing in their natural habitats across the country. Among them, 128 were in Chitwan, 125 in Bardiya, 25 in Banke, 36 in Shuklaphanta, and 41 in Parsa.
Currently, the highest number of tigers is observed in and around Chitwan National Park, where 145 tigers were recorded. Bardiya National Park and surrounding forests have 112 tigers. The count in Parsa National Park and adjacent areas stands at 71, while Banke and Shuklaphanta National Parks and their surroundings host 51 and 50 tigers respectively.
The latest national tiger survey began on Poush 1, 2082 (mid-December 2025) and concluded on Vaisakh 10, 2083 (late April 2026). The department stated that camera trapping technology was used to estimate tiger numbers in the five major tiger habitats and adjacent forests across Nepal. These habitats were divided into three complexes for the census — the Chitwan-Parsa complex, the Banke-Bardiya complex, and the Shuklaphanta-Laljhadi complex.
The government of Nepal collaborated with various donor agencies for this census. Based on analysis, the total tiger population in Nepal is estimated to range between 402 and 500. In an official statement issued by Deputy Director General and spokesperson Vedkumar Dhakal, it was noted, “These results reflect the positive outcomes of ongoing efforts in habitat protection and management, anti-poaching measures, prey species conservation, and biological corridor preservation in Nepal’s tiger conservation initiatives.”
Image caption, During the Guru Samman program held on Guru Purnima Monday in Kathmandu, 63 eminent gurus from various fields were honored by Kathmandu Metropolitan City Deputy Chief Sunita Dangol
Published
Guru Purnima is a festival dedicated to honoring gurus, who can be spiritual or intellectual guides. From the beginning of a person’s life, gurus play a vital and influential role.
Whether a person succeeds or fails often depends on the kind of guidance the guru provides.
These gurus are not only formal educators but can be anyone who imparts wisdom.
“Guru Purnima is the day to express respect and gratitude towards those who guide us towards a successful life,” says cultural expert and professor Madhav Prasad Bhattarai.
When is Guru Purnima Celebrated?
Image source, ANI
Image caption, Guru Purnima celebrated in India
Primarily, followers of Hinduism observe Guru Purnima on the full moon day of the Ashwin month (Ashwin Shukla Purnima).
Influenced by Hindu culture, other religious communities in Nepal also observe this festival.
This year, Guru Purnima falls on a Monday and is being celebrated with enthusiasm across Nepal, India, and other countries with Hindu populations.
The Most Appropriate Day to Honor Gurus
According to mythology, Guru Purnima is also considered the birth anniversary of Veda Vyasa, the sage who classified the ancient Vedas.
Some scholars maintain that the festival was primarily established to honor Vyasa, also called Vyasa Purnima.
Certain Hindu scriptures mark this day as when Maharishi Veda Vyasa composed the four Vedas, hence his name Vyasa.
The role of gurus has been significant in Nepal since ancient times.
Especially in Eastern civilizations, gurus have traditionally been accorded great respect and status.
This tradition continues even in the modern era.
Another mythological belief states that Lord Shiva began teaching yoga to seven sages on Guru Purnima.
Buddhists also observe Guru Purnima in memory of Gautama Buddha.
According to their belief, Buddha delivered his first sermon on this day.
Contemporary Guru Purnima Celebrations
Nowadays, Guru Purnima is celebrated widely in modern educational institutions as well.
On this occasion, students organize programs to praise and honor their gurus and often present gifts.
“Modern celebrations of Guru Purnima show some positive initiatives, but the respect between guru and disciple isn’t as profound as before,” says Bhattarai.
“Today, society views many things financially, which has significantly altered the traditional cultural guru-disciple relationship found in Eastern civilizations.”
According to Hindu tradition, it is customary to offer ‘Guru Dakshina’ or gifts to the guru who has taught the Gayatri Mantra.
If one is unable to meet their guru personally, they may remember them through various means and offer Guru Dakshina later.
A powerful earthquake in southwestern Japan has resulted in at least 13 fatalities, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced. Rescue operations continue for people trapped inside a shopping center in Kumamoto, where many are reported to be stuck. According to an eyewitness, the second floor of the shopping center sustained damage. Japan’s national broadcaster NHK confirmed that three people died at the collapsed Aeon shopping mall.
According to the United States Geological Survey, the earthquake measured a magnitude of 6.8 and struck the Kyushu island of Japan at 4:27 p.m. local time on Tuesday. Kumamoto is a city on Kyushu, one of the four main islands, and is the third largest and second most populous island in southern Japan. The Prime Minister expressed condolences for the deceased and thanked emergency responders actively engaged in search and rescue efforts during a morning update. She also noted that many people are still awaiting rescue. “At this moment, there is a race against time,” she said.
Prime Minister Takaichi urged residents and rescue workers to take precautions against heat-related risks given the high temperatures. Rescue operations are ongoing at the Aeon shopping center and other locations. Local authorities in Kumamoto reported that 9,872 people have been relocated to safe areas. Approximately 350,000 households are without electricity. There have also been reports of damaged roads in several areas. Videos broadcast by NHK show collapsed roads and bridges, as well as fires in dozens of buildings.
Because the earthquake originated 10 kilometers below the surface, government agencies have issued warnings about the possibility of powerful aftershocks. Japan is among the countries most susceptible to earthquakes worldwide, detecting over 1,500 earthquakes annually. Last December, a magnitude 7.5 earthquake in northeastern Japan injured 30 people. In April 2016, two earthquakes of magnitudes 6.5 and 7.3 within two days resulted in more than 270 deaths. In March 2011, a magnitude 9.0 earthquake off Japan’s east coast, followed by a massive tsunami, caused over 18,000 fatalities.
