The 17th Himalayan Mela was successfully held in Toronto, Canada. The event was graced by the presence of Nepal’s Ambassador to Canada, Bharat Raj Paudyal, as the chief guest. Ambassador Paudyal remarked that such programs help unite the Nepali community in the diaspora and assist the younger generation in learning about Nepal and its cultural traditions. He also emphasized that these events contribute to promoting tourism in Nepal.
Additionally, Premier Doug Ford, Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow, and Member of Parliament Sonia Sidhu extended their best wishes and congratulations to the Nepali community through congratulatory messages.
On this occasion, the Nepalese Canadian Community Services (NCCS) also celebrated its 25th anniversary.
Dignitaries such as NRN Canada President Jagan Sapkota, Global NRN Deputy Treasurer Abhimanyu Basnet, Ontario Provincial MP Doly Begum, and Toronto City Councillor Parthi Kandavel were also present at the event. The formal inauguration of the program began with welcome remarks by NCCS President Bina Verma.
Special guest artists Hari Karmacharya, Anjana Gurung, and Kanaiya Singh Pariyar added vibrancy to the event with their captivating musical performances.
The program featured 17 cultural performances and outstanding presentations by 3 musical bands. Additionally, more than 15 organizations participated in the community parade in traditional attire, showcasing a diverse range of cultural identities.
NCCS General Secretary Sudarshan Sapkota was honored with the prestigious inaugural “President Award” in recognition of his dedication, leadership, and inspirational contributions to the community.
The Himalayan Mela is viewed not just as a cultural celebration but also as an important platform to strengthen the collective identity of the Nepali community within Canada’s multicultural society.
To ensure continued success, NCCS has pledged to focus on more effective planning, supportive coordination, and broader community participation in the coming years.
The formal program was conducted by General Secretary Sudarshan Sapkota and Swikriti Ghimire, while the cultural segment was hosted by MCs Bidhan Karki, Srishti Shrestha Amatya, Yareeka Karki, and Devendra Adhikari.
