Lachhi Learning Centre

22/03/2025

~Yaku Nheelayu, Yaku Bwaneyu Program~

Khokana recently hosted the Yaku Nheelayu, Yaku Bwaneyu program, an engaging initiative aimed at promoting storytelling, Newa Lipi learning, and creative expression through coloring and drawing. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from children and women’s groups, fostering a vibrant atmosphere of cultural learning and artistic exploration.

The program was a joint effort by the Social Work Club of Thames, Thames International College, Lachhi Learning Centre, Shree Rudrayani School, Youth Dentistry Nepal, Rotaract Club of People's Dental College, and LMC-21 Khokana. Their collaboration ensured a dynamic and enriching experience for the participants, reinforcing the importance of preserving and celebrating indigenous knowledge and artistic traditions.
Through interactive sessions, children and women actively engaged in storytelling, learned the Newa script, and expressed their creativity through drawing and coloring. The event not only nurtured their artistic talents but also strengthened community bonds by reviving traditional storytelling and language learning in a fun and engaging manner.

The successful ex*****on of the Yaku Nheelayu, Yaku Bwaneyu program highlights the power of collaborative efforts in promoting cultural heritage and education in local communities.
Photo : Jaa Dangol

22/03/2025

~Yaku Nheelayu, Yaku Bwaneyu Program~

Khokana recently hosted the Yaku Nheelayu, Yaku Bwaneyu program, an engaging initiative aimed at promoting storytelling, Newa Lipi learning, and creative expression through coloring and drawing. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from children and women’s groups, fostering a vibrant atmosphere of cultural learning and artistic exploration.

The program was a joint effort by the Social Work Club of Thames, Thames International College, Lachhi Learning Centre, Shree Rudrayani School, Youth Dentistry Nepal, Rotaract Club of People's Dental College, and LMC-21 Khokana. Their collaboration ensured a dynamic and enriching experience for the participants, reinforcing the importance of preserving and celebrating indigenous knowledge and artistic traditions.
Through interactive sessions, children and women actively engaged in storytelling, learned the Newa script, and expressed their creativity through drawing and coloring. The event not only nurtured their artistic talents but also strengthened community bonds by reviving traditional storytelling and language learning in a fun and engaging manner.

The successful ex*****on of the Yaku Nheelayu, Yaku Bwaneyu program highlights the power of collaborative efforts in promoting cultural heritage and education in local communities.

Photo : Jaa Dangol

23/02/2025

~A Heartfelt Thank You~
Over the past two months, our Mural Residency Program at Khokana has been a transformative journey—a true celebration of art, community, and place. This collaborative initiative, brought to life by the combined efforts of Lachhi, Srijanalaya, Shikshya Foundation Nepal, and TheatreWorks in Singapore, and led by the incredibly talented Artist Sujit Maharjan and Hitesh Vaidya, has not only beautified our surroundings but has also deepened our understanding of what a place can teach us.

Learning from Khokana
Khokona is more than just a backdrop; it is a living classroom that has shared with us its rich traditions, timeless wisdom, and resilient spirit. Through this residency, Our Artist and Participants learned that every corner of Khokana holds a story waiting to be told—a narrative that has enriched our creative process and broadened our perspectives. The local community, women’s group and young artists had embraced these lessons, discovering the power of collective memory, the importance of preserving heritage, and the strength that comes from creative collaboration.

Our Deepest Gratitude
We are immensely grateful to everyone who has contributed to this project. Your support and generous spirit have been the cornerstone of our success. We would like to extend our special thanks to:
1) Community and Homeowners: Sabina Maharjan and Dashram Maharjan (homeowners for the mural in Dhokasi), Bekha Muni Maharjan (homeowner for the mural in Gabu), , Narayan Krishna Dangol, Prabhat Maharjan, and Rajendra Dangol (owners of the Gabu land next to the mural)

2) Photographers and Visual Storytellers:
Hari Bhakta Dangol (photographer and videographer), Bhim Dangol (photographer)

3) Innovators and Researchers:
Astendra Maharjan (entrepreneur and activist for self-sustaining living), Mona Lisa Maharjan (researcher sharing insights from Karunamaya), Suraj Maharjan (Heritage Researcher)

4) Community Leaders:
Buddhi Ratna Dangol (botanist, social worker, Dapha musician, and entrepreneur), Krishna Bhakta Maharjan (Principal of Shree Rudrayani Secondary School), Kiran Maharjan (teacher at Shree Rudrayani Secondary), Nithya Nath Bhajan Khala, and Dhokasi Mahila Samuha, Rabindra Maharjan (Chairperson, Lalitpur Metropolitan City – Ward 21)

5) Local Wisdom Keepers:
Gopi Lal Maharjan—whose enduring legacy carries the traditions of Khokana, and Krishna Hari Maharjan (social worker and retired government official from Rudrayani Guthi), whose local knowledge of farming has been invaluable

6) Entrepreneurs and Creative Artists:
Bikram Maharjan and Poonam Maharjan (entrepreneurs and mill owners), Kiran Maharjan (street artist), Pooja Duwal (visual artist), , and Rajan Dangol (Nepal Bhasa translator)

7) Community Groups:
Ta: Guthi, Sana: Guthi, and Ja: Guthi

***Our Mural Art Residency Team***
A special acknowledgment goes to our dedicated team who made this journey possible:

1) Project Leadership & Coordination:
Sanjeev Maharjan (Project Ideation and Coordination), Hari Nath Dangol (Local Coordination, Lachhi), Jaa Dangol (Local Coordination, Founder of Lachhi)
2) Creative and Production Support:
Hari Bhakta Dangol (Photo & Video work), Dipak Lama (Production Support), Sujit Maharjan and Hitesh Vaidya (Visual Artists)
3) Artistic Assistance and Volunteering:
Sussan Dangol, Samir Maharjan, Radip Maharjan, and Rojin Maharjan (Mural Art Assistants), Krishal Maharjan (Mural Art Volunteer), Aniket Singh (Volunteer)
4) Srijanalaya Support: Sharareh Bajracharya, Sushma Maharjan, and Anita Maharjan

Each of you has enriched this project with your talent, wisdom, and passion. Together, we have not only created beautiful art but also fostered a deeper connection with Khokana—a place that teaches us about resilience, community, and the enduring power of creative expression. Thank you for being part of this project..

Photo : Bhim Dangol and Jaa Dangol

12/02/2025

~Call for Video Submissions:~
("Chisa Khanakadegu Soniga / छीसँ खंकादिगु स्वनिग:")
Lachhi Learning Centre invites you to share your experiences and memories through a short video for our initiative, "Chisa Khanakadegu Soniga / छीसँ खंकादिगु स्वनिग:"—a journey into the past, reflecting on the architecture, lifestyle, environment, and cultural heritage of earlier days at Kathmandu Valley.

What to Share in Your Video?
•How was it when you were young?
Describe the architecture, lifestyle, environment, and cultural heritage of your time.

•How has it changed today?
Share your thoughts on the transformations you've witnessed.

•What do you miss the most?
Highlight the things that have faded with time.

•What should today’s youth learn from those days?
Pass on valuable knowledge and wisdom to the younger generation.

Video Guidelines:
•Duration: Less than 5 minute
•Content: Should cover the above-mentioned aspects
•Tone: Informative and engaging
•All other terms, conditions, rules, and criteria apply

Why Participate?
This is an opportunity to tell your story, preserve our collective history, and contribute to documenting the rich oral heritage of our elders. Your memories and experiences will serve as valuable lessons for future generations .This program is proudly organized by Lachhi Learning Centre, dedicated to archiving and sharing the lived experiences of our community elders.

Be a part of this meaningful initiative!
Share your voice, tell your story, and help us keep our heritage alive.

For Registration and Submit the Video
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScMDz1nbc9XFz7YX7FdXkHqlWvxgJ4BewKHOo2mOegoEluaiw/viewform?usp=sharing

Photo By : Wolfgang Korn

10/02/2025

~Jhi Khangu Khona:- जिं खनागु खोना~
(A Reflection Khokana Culture from America - By Kabina Maharjan Singh)
Kabina Maharjan Singh, a dedicated cultural ambassador, shares her heartfelt memories of growing up in Khokana and the nostalgia she feels from afar. Now living in the United States for the past 14 years, she remains deeply connected to her roots, promoting Newa and Nepali culture through various dance performances and cultural initiatives.
Recently, she was inspired by the discussion series "Jhisa Khangu Khona" organized by Lachhi Learning Centre. The conversations rekindled childhood memories and encouraged her to reflect on the traditions she cherished in her early years at Khokana. In response, she shares her experiences and insights about "Jhi Khangu Khona" from an American perspective.

In a heartfelt video, Kabina reminisces about Kha: Pykhana, Khyali Pykhana, and Cultural programs of Khokana—traditions that shaped her identity. She vividly recalls how these events brought the community together, creating a strong sense of belonging and cultural pride. While she deeply misses those moments, she continues to preserve and promote these traditions in the Nepali diaspora.

About Kabina Maharjan Singh
Kabina is a Cultural Ambassador of Friends of Nepal New Jersey and an Honorary Member of Newa Guthi New York. She is the Past President of Women’s for Cause and was honored with the U.S. Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award in 2021. Currently, she works as a pharmacy technician and an employee of Old Bridge Township, New Jersey.

Since 2010, she has passionately dedicated herself to promoting Newa and Nepali culture through traditional dance and cultural advocacy in the U.S. Though far from home, her heart remains in Khokana, and through her efforts, she keeps its heritage alive across borders.

Kabina Maharjan Singh, a dedicated cultural ambassador, shares her heartfelt memories of growing up in Khokana and the nostalgia she feels from afar. Now liv...

09/02/2025

Discussion Session on "झिसं खनागु खोना"
(Fourth Session): Sustainable Living
The fourth session of the discussion series "झिसं खनागु खोना" commenced with a warm welcome by Mr. Jaa Dangol, who greeted all participants, speakers, and the moderator. In his opening remarks, he emphasized the significance of dialogue on health and environmental concerns and the need to revive sustainable living practices.

Moderator’s Introduction
The session was moderated by Mr. Astendra Maharjan, who highlighted Khokana’s long-standing tradition of self-sufficiency. He remarked that, apart from salt and gold, Khokana has historically sustained itself without relying on external resources. He further explained how the community has inherited sustainable living practices from their ancestors and continues to follow them today.

Panelists' Presentations
Mr. Krishna Bhakta Maharjan focused on sustainable development practices in Khokana, emphasizing the following points:
1) Traditional houses in Khokana are built close to each other and located on higher ground near the Bagmati River.
2) The Royal Canal and local ponds have historically played a vital role in irrigation and self-sustenance.
3)The Guthi system and Manka have helped sustain resources through land management and reserved accounts.
4)During the economic blockade, Khokana remained self-reliant, demonstrating the strength of its sustainable lifestyle.
5)Unfortunately, modern development has increased external dependence, threatening traditional sustainability.
6)Large-scale projects are being implemented without proper Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA).
7)The heritage of mustard oil production in Khokana must be preserved.
8)Migration to centralized urban areas like Kathmandu has led to environmental pollution and social changes.
9)The importance of Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle in preserving sustainability.
10) The need to continue sustainable practices passed down from ancestors.

Mr. Kiran Maharjan (Public Health Expert)
Mr. Kiran Maharjan introduced two additional Rs—Rethink and Refuse—as essential principles for sustainable living. He shared his personal experience of missing Newa cuisine, language, and traditional attire while living outside the valley. He also highlighted the nutritional value of Newa food and the importance of preserving traditional dietary habits.

Mr. Hitesh Vidhya (Artist)
Mr. Hitesh Vidhya stressed the need for innovation by fusing traditional techniques with modern approaches to make them relevant for the younger generation. He emphasized that adaptation is key to ensuring the continuity of traditional practices and knowledge.

Mr. Hari Nath Dangol reinforced the idea that practicing the sustainable living methods of our ancestors contributes to a healthier and happier life.

Mr. Dev Dangol (Artist) shared his personal experiences of sustainable living from his youth. He is currently working on integrating heritage, lifestyle, and sustainability themes into storytelling, art, and curriculum textbooks to educate future generations.

Closing Remarks
In his closing statement, Mr. Jaa Dangol raised concerns about the growing issue of digital screen addiction and its impact on health. He also addressed the alarming problem of textile waste, emphasizing the need to embrace minimalism.
He shared a personal example: "My mother once carried me in a handwoven cloth, and now the same fabric is used to carry my daughter. This is a perfect example of minimalism and sustainable living."
He further emphasized:
• The importance of educating children about reuse, reduce, and rethink from an early age.
• The need to integrate minimalism, traditional skills, and expert knowledge into school education.
• How such discussion sessions serve as a bridge between local experts and youth, fostering awareness and brainstorming solutions for contemporary issues.

Acknowledgments
The event concluded with gratitude extended to:
The panelists: Mr. Krishna Bhakta Maharjan and Ms. Radhika Dangol., Moderator Mr. Astendra Maharjan for effectively leading the discussion, Videographer Ms. Pabitra for documenting the event and all participants for their active engagement in the discussion series.

The series will continue in the future to explore more aspects of sustainable living and encourage local communities to uphold their rich heritage and traditions.

Photo : Pabitra Maharjan

07/02/2025

What secrets do our ancestors hold? Join us in Jhisa Khangu Khona as we uncover the untold stories of our heritage!

For Registration
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdV5y46m3cSw8neKDXHav5rtW8ZgGmsNYxaCcMdflfqasI3kw/viewform?usp=sharing

05/02/2025

Vanishing Skills: Can We Save Them?
Our ancestors knew how to build, weave, and farm with nature—skills that are now fading. How can we bring them back? Let's talk in Jhisa Khangu Khona!

Join us for the Fourth Jhisa Khanagu Khona Discussion Session as we dive into the theme of “Sustainable Living “ , exploring ways to integrate eco-friendly practices into our daily lives while preserving indigenous knowledge, traditions, and local resources.

Expected Outcomes:
1) Awareness and understanding of sustainable living practices from both traditional and modern perspectives.

2)Practical knowledge on incorporating eco-friendly habits into daily life.

3)Encouragement of local and indigenous practices for a more sustainable future.

4) A roadmap for future initiatives and collaborations in sustainability efforts.

5) Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a movement towards sustainable, mindful, and responsible living!

Date: 27th Magh, 2081
Venue: Lachhi (Ethnic Food, Living, and Crafts)
Time: 8:30 AM – 9:30 PM

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdV5y46m3cSw8neKDXHav5rtW8ZgGmsNYxaCcMdflfqasI3kw/viewform?usp=sharing

04/02/2025

~“ झींस खनागु खोना ” Jhisa Khanagu Khona ~
(Discussion Session on "Sustainable Living)

Join us for the Fourth Jhisa Khanagu Khona Discussion Session as we dive into the theme of “Sustainable Living “ , exploring ways to integrate eco-friendly practices into our daily lives while preserving indigenous knowledge, traditions, and local resources.

Expected Outcomes:
🔹 Awareness and understanding of sustainable living practices from both traditional and modern perspectives.
🔹 Practical knowledge on incorporating eco-friendly habits into daily life.
🔹 Strengthened community ties and shared commitment to sustainability.
🔹 Encouragement of local and indigenous practices for a more sustainable future.
🔹 A roadmap for future initiatives and collaborations in sustainability efforts.

Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a movement towards sustainable, mindful, and responsible living! 🌿✨

📅 Date: 27th Magh, 2081
📍 Venue: Lachhi (Ethnic Food, Living, and Crafts)
⏰ Time: 8:30 AM – 9:30 PM

For Registration:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdV5y46m3cSw8neKDXHav5rtW8ZgGmsNYxaCcMdflfqasI3kw/viewform?usp=sharing

03/02/2025

In the Newa community, traditional teaching starts with the syllables "न म वा गी स्व रा ये(Na Ma Wa Gi Sw Ra Ye), which hold deep cultural, linguistic, and scientific significance. This practice is most notably observed during Saraswati Puja, the festival dedicated to the goddess of wisdom, learning, and arts.

Scientific Importance:

1. Phonetic Progression & Speech Development:

The syllables are arranged in a way that engages different parts of the vocal system, from nasal sounds (न) to labial (म) and guttural (ग), gradually exercising the vocal cords.

This aids in clear speech development, similar to how modern phonetic exercises train articulation.

2. Neuroscientific Connection:

Reciting these syllables activates different areas of the brain, stimulating cognitive functions, memory, and language processing.

In Ayurveda and traditional knowledge systems, certain sounds are believed to resonate with different chakras, supporting mental clarity and focus.

3. Breath Control & Vibrational Impact:

The pronunciation involves controlled breathing patterns, which improve focus and mindfulness, much like chanting in meditation.

The vibrations produced by these sounds are said to align with the body's natural energy flow.

Cultural & Spiritual Significance:

1. Invocation of Knowledge:

Each syllable is associated with Saraswati, symbolizing the foundation of wisdom.

It is a traditional way of invoking blessings for clarity in speech, intellect, and artistic expression.

2. Foundation of Script Learning:

In the classical Newa tradition, before learning the script, a child is introduced to these sacred sounds.

This practice strengthens cultural identity and connects the learner to their heritage.

3. Traditional Education System:

Historically, Newa scholars and artists began their training with these syllables, emphasizing the holistic nature of learning that includes phonetics, language, and spirituality.

Starting on Saraswati Puja:

Saraswati Puja is considered the most auspicious day for Aksharabhyanasa (the first writing or learning ritual).

The goddess Saraswati symbolizes wisdom, making it an ideal time to start education.

Writing "न म वा गी स्व रा ये" on a sacred surface is believed to ensure lifelong knowledge, wisdom, and creativity.

This unique tradition highlights how indigenous education systems integrated scientific phonetics, spiritual wisdom, and cultural continuity into learning practices.

Photo : Sanjog Manandar

01/02/2025

Discussion Session on "झिसं खनागु खोना"
(Third Session): Health and Environment

This session marked a significant step in fostering meaningful conversations between elders and youth. It provided a platform for professionals in health, environment, and local heritage to share their expertise, helping to cultivate awareness and sustainable practices within the community.

Dr. Niroj Dangol addressed the topic of mental health, emphasizing the need for more discussions on the subject. Key points from his presentation included:
1) The alarming rise in su***de cases and the lack of awareness surrounding mental health.
2 ) The increasing prevalence of mental health disorders in today’s society.
3) How youth and women are the most affected by mental health challenges.
4 ) The stigma surrounding mental health consultations and the importance of seeking professional help without hesitation.
5 )The immense pressure children and students face to achieve good academic results, leading to stress and anxiety.
6) The health hazards caused by pesticides in farming and their long-term effects on mental and physical health.
7) Practical techniques for mental well-being and stress relief.
8) A commitment to providing more information and discussions on mental health in upcoming events.

Dr. Niroj Dangol addressed the topic of mental health, emphasizing the need for more discussions on the subject. Key points from his presentation included:• ...