Some Beautiful Things from Home
October is here, and we’re well into holiday season by now; there’s a distinct feeling of movement and change in the air, from to weather to people, as folks travel, meet family, visit places old and new, eat good things, and enjoy this special time of year in whatever way means the most to each one. It’s a time of renewal, but also of remembrance, of moving forward while embracing our past: in short, a time worth celebrating.
In this month’s issue you’ll find a spread of articles on a variety of topics: first off you’ll notice there’s quite a lot about pashmina. This beautiful, natural fabric has been a mainstay in Nepal for years, but is gaining even more prominence and notoriety these days. The articles included share its history, background, how it is made, and the way it’s being promoted by entrepreneurs in a big way. We also touch on other items made here, like silk and Nepali paper. As a small country with less exports than some, goods made here are something worth celebrating and sharing, using ourselves and buying as gifts for others, don’t you think?
We’ve also got articles about the Kumari which provide a fascinating inside glimpse into this unique institution from those who know it well. In these pages you’ll also find a look at Indra Jatra, the festival in which the living goddess features. The article about the Lakhey (Majipa Lakhey Aaju, the Demon who Cares) is one that I think you’ll find particularly interesting – at least I know I did! We see these masks and dances without always being aware of their history and legends, so this makes for fascinating and informative reading.
In this month’s food and culture pieces, we’ve chosen to shine a spotlight on Gurung traditions; with Nepal having so very many ethnic and cultural groups, we feel it’s important to feature as many as possible. If you have an experience you’d like to share with us that’s unique to one of Nepal’s many facets and peoples—whether your own or one you’ve recently discovered and experienced—we’d love to hear about it. Please get in touch at editorial@ecs.com.np
An Unusual Hike through Verdant Farmland is one of the best sort of travel stories, in my opinion—the author is wandering relatively close at hand and yet still looking at everything through fresh new eyes, eager for discovery. Let’s all do a little more of that this month!
Enjoy!
Evangeline Neve
Associate Editor
