Magar Sangh UK organised an open concert on the occasion of Buddha Purnima in Aldershot, UK, on Saturday.

(From Right) Dr Anna Stir singing dohori with folk singer Milan Lama at a function in UK (Photo courtesy: Milan Tamu)

Dr Anna Stir, who has completed her Ph. D. in Nepalese folk songs, and noted folk singer Milan Lama were the main attractions of the program. With the help of singers Jyoti Chhetri and Chanda Thapa, Anna took on Milan Lama and Prakash Rana and entertained hundreds of audience.

Victoria Cross winners Tul Bahadur Pun and Lachhiman Gurung inaugurated the function by worshipping Lord Buddha.

Addressing the program, Nepali envoy to the UK, Dr Suresh Chandra Chalise, said he was so happy to see the attendance of thousands of ethnic Nepali community in the UK. He expressed hope that the new constitution of Nepal will ensure promotion of language, religion and cultures of all the communities inhabiting Nepal.

President of Magar  Sangh, UK, Major (Retd.) Kul Bahadur Thapa Magar said the organisation was trying to preserve and promote Magar culture and tradition in the UK. A Buddhist scholar, Dr Suneel, spoke about the message of peace and non-violence in Buddha’s teachings.

Hurra, Salaijyu, Kaura and Ghatu dances popular in Magar community were also performed on the occasion.

Members of Gulmeli Samaj UK played traditional ‘naumati baja’ at the function while different branches of Magar Sangh UK performed cultural programs on the occasion. A huge number of participants, attired in traditional Magar dress, attended the program.

Program coordinator and vice president of Magar Sangh UK, Dut Pun Magar, delivered welcome speech while General Secretary Yog Kumar Fagami highlighted the activities of the organisation. Another vice president, Hem Thapa, spoke on the importance of Buddha Purnima.

Ramesh Sarangkoti, Rupa Rana, Akhu Pulami and Kamala Rana hosted the program. nepalnews.com