Started by Yogendra Shakya, coordinator of Nepal Tourism Year 2011, with the intention of preserving the Nepali tradition of flying kites, this year’s organization was passed off to the next generation with Yogendra’s daughter, Parmita Shakya coordinating the event.[break]
“It’s been several years since the last Changa Chait, but everyone remembers the event and what we want is for participants and companies to be here every year for continuity,” says Parmita who adds that this is a corporate event for companies and the family.
Keeping it fun for family members, Changa Chait offered fun and games for children of all ages. The day was DJed by D J Taremam and there was a live concert featuring Sabin Rai and the Mood Makers. The venue had a section for face painting, and games like pin the tail on the donkey for the younger crowd while the more serious kite flying competition between corporations and organizations took place.
Sworoop and Satya Raj Acharya started the day with a song, but the official opening of the event was marked by chief guests including CNN hero, Anuradha Koirala, the Acharya brothers, CEO of Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) Prachanda Man Shrestha and Miss Nepal 2010, Sadichha Shrestha, releasing helium balloons attached to kites with messages written on them.
Most of these messages advocated unity, peace, and change. Anuradha Koirala believes, “We need to focus on youth in a constructive way. Women and children – they’re the ones who can do things,” which falls in line with her kite’s message that highlighted the importance of motivating youth.
On top of the optimistic messages, young volunteers from Ace Institute of Management assisted in overseeing the range of events and entertainment. A portion of Club Himalaya was turned into an outdoor food count. Rekha Bhattachan of Tukche Thakali Kitchen, Lazimpat, was happy to be back to cater another event. “The previous years were fantastic; it’s something I’ve always looked forward to,” she said.
Unfortunately, the one aspect of the event management could not account for was the weather. Due to showers in the morning/early afternoon, the day got off to a late start and the first round of competition was almost without wind.
Aman P Adhikary from TTV, was the only flyer able to get his kite airborne during the first round of competition and says, “I grew up playing with marbles and kites.” Missing out on the kite flying fun for the last eight years, Adhikari was excited about winning the first round and says, “All I need is a little wind and I’ll get my kite up there.”
However, the four companies who made it to the final round are Munz Ad, Specialized Tours and Travels, Terai TV and Yeti Travels, who will compete on Oct 1 to win a trip for two to Malaysia.
The last day of Changa Chait will be held on Oct 1, at Club Himalaya, Nagarkot. Tickets are available for Rs 250 at the door for those who want to attend the kite flying competition and concert by Mukti and Revival.
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