Being initiated into Nepali culture

Nepalis are kind and uber respectful with their ceremonies. In the course of one day I visited two schools and one host family and had three welcoming ceremonies. Three times I received tika (red powder mixed with yogurt and rice) used for religious ceremonies and welcoming guests. That’s why my face is covered. Also, I received a mala (a lei) “reserved for guests, deities, teachers and elders.” Three out of four is not bad. You figure which three. And a khata (scarf) for a guest.And a bouquet and a school mug. What did I do to deserve all of this? I think it was because of the great respect and appreciation they have for the volunteers.

I flew to another part of the country on my own to meet two Peace Corps Volunteers (an all day bus ride or a 20 minute plane flight). With all of the mountains Nepal is difficult to traverse. I went to their two communities outside Pokhara, Nepal’s second city. They are both well integrated into their schools and have great relationships with the other teachers and students. Sarita’s host mother is also a teacher at her school. Both schools were so pleased to have the Peace Corps Volunteers. As always, the host family was welcoming and served a delicious meal. And the volunteers are doing great at mastering the Nepali language, which has many variations from village to village.Read more