Dharapani: Today we arrived at a place called Dharapani and I started writing blogs in my reporting notebook. People are curious. They want to know what I am writing about and I am already hearing warnings. “Don’t write anything bad,” cautions Wanda with a smiling face. “I also want to write,” says Jenny. “But I don’t feel like writing now. That is why I draw.” Jenny is an artist who teaches drawing back in Canada. “Draw my face,” I request her. Yesterday, she had drawn a little girl and wanted me to ask her name so that she could send the sketch to Aitamaya Gurung. Gyanu assured Jenny that he would make sure the sketch reaches to the little Aitamaya.
Tents haven’t arrived yet, we just had tea. Its late afternoon and it wasn’t a long day. That is why I am finding time to write. Gyanu is doing push-up and a few other physical exercises on the camping ground. Marshyangdi khola is flowing just down with big noise.
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The evening was musical and people were dancing in the tunes of Ghin Tan (sound produced by Madal, a Nepali traditional drum). As Gyanu played Madal and other boys started singing folk songs, Matthew danced. Wanda, Brooke and Gyanu were dancing. I was also dancing. I mean trying to dance! There was yet another dancer: Suusan Anne Campbell (Sioux), a friendly and talkative woman who works in a public relations company in New Zealand. Her style of twisting waist was unique! Then there was group dance.
Matt played guitar at the end and sang a song. I am not sure if boys understood the songs but they were certainly enjoying the laughter of their guest as a result of the songs. That was a musical evening.
Dinesh Wagle on Nepali Society 