Nepali Thito

Why should we Pay tax

2011-12-22T03:43:00.000-08:00

Someone wrote in Face-book few days ago titled ;

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Why Should I Pay Tax to this Country if the money I paid is not enough to give me full time electricity and good road and good system. The government spent our money in teaching us our duty to pay Tax on time. I ask you, is it not your duty to pay to its citizen with good system? Anyone give me at least five reasons why should I pay tax??

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I started to think one single point to satisfied this Face-book user but could not even get closer to half a point. Then I wrote to the user on my opinion as :

There is something fundamental wrong in Nepalese political system and has been extremely difficult to change this disgustingly polluted inherited system. Therefore, every citizen in Nepal should not pay tax unless the collected money solely utilized for citizenś welfare. The more I think the more I get frustrated, and remembering my home town road, we called "Galli", This Galli has not been pitched over decade and council is still collecting council tax - Shall I pay again - perhaps not.

Without basic awareness such as "ghuss kana hudaina - janta ko " and fundamental political reform - all leaders only shout with their big mouth nothing else. No matter who comes into power such as Dr., Professor, Scientist so on.. they turn system back to what it was. So, no change again. Therefore until there is no fundamental or primary reform basic structure in the system YOU SHOULD NOT PAY TAX at all.

So called new political party shouted in very big and loud with slogan "NEW Nepal", "New Chapter", - these are all non-sense until they mean it and reform the basic awareness, at least that's what I think

66 -70 degree North

2011-10-18T13:52:00.000-07:00

When it comes to geography I am really bad. Having said that, prior to meet my wife I have very little knowledge of countries in Northern Europe. However, after moving in Iceland permanently I become more interested exploring countries that are in North. Iceland resides in 66 degree North. During the winter time, you can see the Northern Light across the country.

Last week I had an opportunity to visit Norway - a country I always wanted to explore. I was in Oslo once, but it was only for airport transit to exchange the plane. But this time I visiting the place called Tromso in right up North of Norway which is 69°40′58″N 18°56′34″E. Despite raining all the time and very cold, this city has attracted me so much. I am very fascinated with this place after my first visit. Surrounded by beautiful hills (they call it mountain) followed by sea and the houses in hills reminded me my back home. People I encountered with are much friendly than those I meet in Oslo. I plan to visit again this place - but don´t know when. One thing that I have to make comment of this city is perhaps it is too expensive. Nevertheless I would recommend all to visit this place once if you can.

Bitter Expereince with Iceland Express Service

2011-08-23T08:26:00.000-07:00

First of all Iceland express supposed to be budget airline from Iceland - in fact it is not. The price difference from Iceland Air(National Flag Carrier) and IcelandExpress are not that big difference. Okay fair enough with the price but itś services is getting bad to worse in recent days. In particular to my visit to London last week became nightmare. When I booked my flight it was scheduled for 7:55 in the morning and few days later I received mail that flight schedule has been re-sheduled to 8:55 am - okay fine too. On the morning of 14th August I rushed to airport not to be late. Done with all airport procedures, checking in, security etc. 8:55 has passed, No information on the screen what´s happening with the flight. I wonder what is happening, then hour later I saw in the information screen saying "next information is available at 11:00am". My wife was furious to see this news as she was going to London only for 3 days. We went to Iceland express help-desk - very poor response with reply we do not know !! Who should know then ? There are no arrangement for the passenger eg, hotel, and other services. Me and my wife drove back to Reykjavik. Around 12:30 PM I checked with Keflavik airoprt departure schedule and saw the flight is schedule for 17:15. My wife became more furious as she has now lost whole one day. Nevertheless after spending our whole day at Reykjavik (a waste day) we drove back to keflavik airport. Again, after waiting long time at the airport we finally queued for boarding. Once again flight got delayed - no information to the passenger (Same story). I rushed to Help-desk they were not sure weather this plane or other plane. After half an hour a lady confirmed "this is the plane to London Gatwick". A passenger with a big voice announced to the crowd - Iceland express staff should have done it . The aeroplane was not the icelandexpress but Air Finland. I was impressed with the seat space with this airlines however. Inside the aeroplane the crew distributed paper which quoted "we are sorry for the delay" - Thats it.

For me and My wife it was the pain day as we lost whole one day. Was there any compensation - ? Not at all. What about people who had a connecting flight - any service for them - not at all (They probably don´t care either). Will I buy ticket with icelandexpress again - I will think 10 times. Will I recommend ? - perhaps not.

This is Iceland, western Europe. I do understand the technical difficulties however if they provide the information on time that will be very helpful to the passenger. They should extend their helping hands to the passenger who has connecting flight and in some cases compensate - like with me wife she has arranged baby sitting and all for this three days trip to London. But due to Iceland express fault she has been forced to stay two days. I am not sure why Icelandexpress is delivering such a rubbish service. It was not like this few years back, I remeber. Perhaps a result of poor management.

Once Again in Geysir and Gullfoss

2011-08-12T03:34:00.000-07:00

I never was a nature lover prior to moving to Iceland. It was 2002 when I first came for visit, the country attracted me instantly not because it is in Europe or advance in its financial situation but true nature, clean air, tidy city and the landscape. I travelled widely across Iceland during my first visit and fascinated about the country and its nature. I also felt the country is similar with Nepal in terms of landscape except small mountains and surrounded by sea. Although there are many tourist attractions in Iceland however two most famous Geysir and Gullfoss has attracted me lot. Whoever comes to visit me in Iceland, this two destination has been in my list. My youngest sister, late father, mother has visited back in 2006,2008. Now, recently I had an opportunity to take my window mother to the same place once she been there with her beloved husband. It has been great day out recently at those place. One thing however, Geysir still splashing water into the air and Gullfoss is still the same with wowow position. My oldest sister is now due to visit this two eye catching place - lets hope I can do this pretty soon.

My all time nepali songs

2011-07-18T02:21:00.000-07:00

Some of my favourite songs that are still loved by all ages of Nepalis.

Gajaulee Akhai Chopnee
Lalaupatee
MusuMuse Hasideu
Maya Le Maya Gasideu
Akasai Ma Chil Udyoo
Sunil Dai
Akhako Nani
Kaha Timro Mayalulai
Ye Bahan Soltee baru bar nadhati

School mates after long years

2011-07-01T22:52:00.000-07:00

It is almost two decades since I left school. All my classmates are scatter all over the world and quite a few are still residing in Nepal. It has been always very difficult to gather for reunion. I was lucky this year for reunion - thank Beejen for putting effort on this event. Although not everyone could able to attend, it was one of the great time I ever had. A fantastic evening with all our oldies chit chat and off course few drinks. As said, "Old is Gold", I think that applies perfectly and I must agree this is true. Though we were only 10-15 but atmosphere was kind of our whole school was there. Everybody was eager to share their updates to each other. Simply great night with fantastic classmates. Thanks everyone for joining.

No Loadshedding

2011-07-01T22:33:00.000-07:00

Nepal is one of the richest country in water, almost all electricity is rely on water. However, in recent years people of Nepal especially in capital, Kathmandu has witnessed huge load shedding. When I was in Nepal last June, there was a day the power was off for almost 13 hours i.e. you do not expect to do anything that require electricity. I had a similar mind set when I went to Nepal this year. Surprisingly, there were no load-shedding. NEA must be happy as they do not have to listen those complains at - thanks to rainfall. I think Nepal should think for alternative energy source in order to ease the situation like this.

Bryan Adams in Nepal tour

2011-02-03T01:56:00.000-08:00

"Everything I Do I Do It For You" - On Feb 20 2011, Bryan Adam will be singing his song in Himalayan Capital for the first time. DasrathRangasala - National Stadium is the venue, a place where I used to play national league (B,C,D) divison football. Although I witnessed famous artist performing from neighbouring country India however famous singers from west i.e Bryan Adams have never been to Nepal for concert. Perhaps time has changed now and people can afford to go to concert like this. This might be the start of Nepal's tourism year 2011 and hope many will follow the singer like him. Thank you for doing this Bryan.

The Colonial Guys

2011-02-02T01:13:00.000-08:00

When it comes to the music I am not very good in choice. However, I listen any kind of music. One of those song I used to listen as a teenager were "Colonial Cousins", Lucky Ali from our neighbour country - India. My taste of music was pretty much influenced by my younger sister at the time who is a song writer and has passion in music.

Here is the video clip:

Year 2010

2011-01-19T01:19:00.000-08:00

First of all Happy New Year to you all. 2010 had been full of sad and bit of joyful year. The most sad thing was loosing my beloved father. I guess it is the matter of time where we have to adjust our life into it. I am hoping new year will be my fruitful year.

Who is Next

2010-11-24T07:55:00.000-08:00

Financial crisis has had put many countries in difficult situation and government has no solution rather bring new but hostile policies to the people. During 2008 the financial turbulence had spread across the globe but Iceland became the first victim where government has to rescue almost all the private banks. IMF rescue package has been working well with Icelandic financial recovery. Then, we saw Greece being rescued by EU, Greece became the second victim of financial crisis. Very recently, Ireland being rescued by IMF and European union. It will be matter of time when IMF, EU etc organization will have to rescue all the nation - we will have to wait and see.

If any case, general people will be the victim and they will have to bear all the non-sense that banks, governments, politic ans and those greedy peopleś mess. When IMF and other bigger organization will run out of money we have to start asking for god "Can You bail out us please".

A Hat Always reminds my father

2010-08-08T05:48:00.000-07:00

Dhaka Topi, a very popular hat and also part of Nepalese National Dress, is widely used across the country. My father - a diverse man, a flexibility in different tradition and less conservative who always had a hat in his head - well, as far as I know. He was very proud to wear his hat even in his last moment of his life. I took his most favorite Nepali Hat (Dhaka Topi) after his death as a memory. His well known hat being my one of the great great memory in my house. Which I feel he is still around.

Graduated Again

2010-08-04T07:20:00.001-07:00

I decided to do additional master degree last year in research area. Finally, I finished and awarded Master in Reserach (MRes) in Electronic, Electric and Computing Engineering. Despite loss of my father´s sad memory I went to graduation ceromony. It was great to be graduating line-up with mixed feeling. I wish my father was there to witnessed the ceromony but my kids and wife were there to celebrate with me. This one year had been really tedious and very hectic. After all yes I finished. Thank you parents, wife, kids and beloved sisters - you all have been great supporters.

After father died

2010-08-04T06:10:00.000-07:00

I have been quite for some time. First due to my father serious illness and second he passed a way. I would like to thank you all of my beloved friends, families and well wishers for the messages.

Residing millions miles away from your parents it is always very difficult when doing many trips in few moths. At the last time of my father, we could do nothing except watching him dying. Cancer is such a disease which you can only watch and be helpless when people are in chronic pain. Well, we did whatever we can and be there from him of his last moment. He is gone now and memory only remains in my head.

There are so many cultural differences between west and Nepal, many of them I still argu and do not thing is right. Well, these are just my opinion. Now, I try not to remember his last moment of his painful time rather remember good time with him. I am now back to Iceland with his all kinds of memories and reunited with my family. I truly hope his soul rest in peace. Well, this is called "life".

Band /Strike and chakka Jam

2010-05-04T01:37:00.000-07:00

I made a phone call to my father this morning to check if his checkup has been done this week. But my mother and rest of the family were very frustrated due to Nepal Banda. My father is suffering from lung cancer and been in treatment with Chemotherapy. He has to do blood test and regular check up every now and then. Kathmandu is completely shut down because Maoist wanted to be in government. They have been trying to get someone at home to take the blood sample and it is beyond the scope to reach at my place. There are no transports allowed.

It is very sad indeed. I am only thinking about my father but how about tons of people like my father who needs such care, treatment and regular checkups? It has been very frustrating, disappointing and being helpless although living in capital city. Politicians are only interested in power not public life.

Bye-Bye Asics

2010-04-27T10:40:00.000-07:00

Almost eight Years ago I bought a running shoes to do London Marathon and had very difficulties choosing the right brand. Eventually I end up with Asics. I paid 60 pounds at the time which was very expensive at the time. But it was all worth it. I have done several marathons, 10ks, 20ks, jugging, playing bandy and football with this shoes. And yesterday finally I decided to retire this "very special" shoe from my feet. First it is completely damage in everyplace, not helping at all for feet and secondly I hurt my ankle severely due to lack of support grip in the it . I would certainly recommend people to buy "Asics" trainer for indoor and outdoor sports. Thank you “Asics” for your long support, and good bye. Sorry I had to throw you in my trash bin :)

Home made Pizza

2010-04-23T15:01:00.000-07:00

Normally I do not prefer pizza for either dinner or lunch but I have tried last weekend to try it out at home. It is not that I hate eating pizza - just me not interested in pizza at all. If I ask my family what you would like to eat for launch or dinner ? there answer would without anything else but "Pizza". I found it was good fun making pizza at home and think it is much healthier than dominoz. So, do I love Pizza now ? yes the one I made!!!

My Bandý Group in Iceland

2010-04-18T01:40:00.000-07:00

Iceland in Headlines in the world

2010-04-17T04:13:00.000-07:00

I knew Iceland only after I meet my wife ten years ago. Not surprisingly many people around the world have very little knowledge about Iceland. While I was in England few years ago many were very surprised when my wife is from Iceland. But this has been changed recently mainly from different way. First from banking crisis in late 2008 which had effected Iceland economy severely. Another one was decision taken by British prime minister Gordon Brown to apply terrorist law against Iceland due to Icelandic banking crisis. Secondly, Volcano eruption in Iceland recently which has effected entire European Airspace. Most of the major airport in Europe has been shut down due to this eruption.

I wonder the effect of two very big well known volcano "Hekla" and "Katla" start to erupt. Because of those two event Iceland became the center in world news. Banking crises (especially terrorist law against Iceland) made heading in the news perhaps not a good way however volcanic eruption has made Iceland focal news in world stage is somehow a good way - i guess. Now, probably people know where "Iceland" is located.

Airspace closed - due to Icelandic Volano

2010-04-16T08:48:00.000-07:00

These are the countries who closed their airspaces due to volcano eruption in Iceland

Source:BBC

Belgium

Czech Republic

Denmark

Estonia

Finland

Hungary (from 1700 GMT)

Latvia

Lithuania

Netherlands

Slovakia

Switzerland (from 2200 GMT)

Partial closures:

Austria (closures from 1600 GMT)

France (northern airspace)

Germany (most airports closed)

Norway (limited flights in north)

Poland (most airports closed)

Republic of Ireland (most airspace opened Friday)

Sweden (northern airspace opened Friday)

UK (near-total closure)

Volcano Erupted - Iceland

2010-04-15T12:44:00.001-07:00

When the first volcano erupted in Iceland recently I was in Nepal and did not hear much about it. Since the eruption there has been regular tremor around the volcanic areas. Yesterday another volcano erupted in a massive scale which has disturbed not only local inhabitants but also almost all European countries. Many of the major city´s airport has been closed. One of the very busy airport in London Heathrow has now completely shut down due to safety concern for until tomorrow.

I am also planning to go to the volcanic site to witnessed the eruption this week if weather permits. And, we live in capital city - Reykjavik, we are safe from this eruption.

City of schools, hospitas and banking

2010-04-12T03:53:00.000-07:00

I was in Nepal recently for two months. I witnessed massive change in capital city. There are obvioubsly some very good developments eg. telecommunication. This is indeed I felt milestone for Nepal. Every signle individual have a mobile phone and interstingly very cheap when making calls. You can find people carrying GSM (mobile phone) from city to himalays and can communicate. This was not possible 5-6 years ago - Thanks to public and private sector.

I am not sure if this is development or not. But there are mushrooms of colleges, schools accross the big cities like kathmandu, biratnagar and so on. In kathmandu you can see either college or school in almost in every cornors. Similarly, finance companies, banks and lending instituion has also increased. I wonder if this is the development of the country or something is not right. A country which as a 29million population with only 48% literacty rate perhaps go up by 100% if the schools and colleges are spreading all over the country.

Nepal is still regarded as a one of the poorest country in the world where mushrooms of financial institutions makes me feel bad when village kids could not afford to eat and go to school for very basic education. My sincere hope such institution will also focus on some philanthropy.

Snow in London

2009-02-09T05:05:00.000-08:00

Last week I was in London. To be honest it was terrible weather. London has not seen snow like this for years - they said in 20 years. It was about 15 cm snow in inner London. I was stuck for two days in hotel due to no trains, buses, tube and even the shops, restaurant were completely closed. Tempreature went on -7 to -10, yes! certainly was very cold. TVs broadingcasting this as a breaking news for almost whole day.

In Iceland, snowing with such inches is very normal in Icelandic daily life. Snow remover, salting are in place when there are snow - So, it is very common here but not yet heard as a "Breaking News". There will be a breaking news if 10-15 inches snow - I assume.

Power is what some really really wants !!

2009-01-31T03:38:00.000-08:00

Davið Oddson is a very popular figure in Icelandic politics. Many suspected soon after his retirement from the politics be became focal point of politics in authorities and influenced surroundings. People are also very angry towards his decision recently, especially when Iceland´s three major banks collapsed late in 2008. After stepped down from the prime minister he became country´s head (governor) of national bank of Iceland. Many Icelanders wonders why he hasn´t resigned in principal after countries three largest bank collapsed.

Some even quoted "This is what happens when politicians turns into economist. His passion perhaps " Hungry for Powers" turned into economist"

Personally I don´t blame whole financial crisis to him but yes I must agree with his some of the major decision he had made. Nothing much to say but one can think that due to inappropriate decision Icelandic economy went years back and surely this will take years to rebuild.

Whatever has had happened over the months, most importantly of Icelandic political and financial activities, country has lost it´s "trust" in international open market - I assume. I truly hope everyone will come together and recover the Icelandic economy rather fighting for position / power etc etc.

Back to post

2009-01-31T03:31:00.000-08:00

I have been very quite due to busy, lazy etc etc. Now again I am back to blog stuff. First of all Happy New Year to you all. Despite financial turbulence around the world I wish for good health and all the best to all. Year 2009 ahead seems very scary particularly financial sector around the world.

Lets hope 2009 will be a trouble free year.

Anil

History of Computer

2008-12-04T06:32:00.001-08:00

http://www.neatorama.com/2008/01/25/the-wonderful-world-of-early-computing/

Reykjavik Hits 22 degree

2008-07-29T05:53:00.000-07:00

Isn´t it amazing Reykjavik city had 22 degree last week ? In my three years,in iceland, this is the highest temperature I witnessed. Complete sunny day with such a high temperature is something unusual in Iceland - Perhaps this is due to Global warming !!! But Iceland sure had a wonderful summer at least for a day or two recently.

In earlier post I had mentioed, Iceland have three month for summer and if lucky we get summer like this. Most of the time weather been very frustating and hostile. But tempreature like this has certainly welcomed Icelanders to enjoy, get more tann and travell across the country. Fisherman holiday which is also regarded as Bank Holiday Monday in Iceland is next weekned. People had already started travelling across the country to witnesss more hot temprature and off course celebrate Bank holiday - "Verslunarmannahelgi".

New Bike

2008-07-20T15:31:00.000-07:00

Since my older bike got stolen I have been looking for cheap, best and reliable bike to ride for summer and use to go to work, Finally I found the bike I was looking for. Yes, I brought it today.

Although I am not sure this is good bike or not but it was in sale with affordable price so I took a chance. Well, perhaps this bike might not suit for professional but this will do for me - I guess.

Now, my plan is stop using car for this summer to go to work instead use my new bike. Lets hope weather will also permit my plan during this summer.

Holiday in "Spain"

2008-07-11T13:57:00.001-07:00

I have been on holiday for two weeks hence some delay in posts. Hot temprature is really not for me espically 29 degree to 30 degree but I choose to go to there anyway. "Tenerif", a small island in spain which we choose for this year´s holiday. This was my family holiday so every moment we had a tremendous time there.

"Las Americas", the city in Tenerif where we stayed and is a very famous for toursit destination. Beach was just minutes walk from our aparatment, swimming poor was in next door. Everything was in walking distacnce which added more flexibility in do much thigns. The capital of Tenerif "Santa Cruz" - I wish I should not have gone. I wasted money in taxi all the way to see execiment but was nothing there and everythign was closed at the time.

Dolphin show was the amazing, fasicating and very intersting trip I had ever been. What a animal is this!! I had never been in such a trip but in spain - even that tempreature I went to see such a lovely animal with artistic show.

" Rain in Spain never happens" - the pharse I always heard proved me worng. Remaiing last two of our holiday weather been very bad - bit of rain and cloudy. Temperature was still 24. Local resident marked as very cold weather in the island. Well they yet to visit Iceland druing winter.

Republic of Nepal

2008-06-01T14:12:00.000-07:00

Two hundred fifty years monarchy is now over and the "Royals" are deleted from Nepal´s chapter. The newly elected constitution assembly declared Nepal as "Republic of Nepal". Kingdom of Nepal is now just a history. Ex- Royals are now normal citizen of Nepal.

However outcome of new constitution and "New Nepal" is yet be observed. It will be tough exercise to build new Nepal but, however if they exercise properly it will be achieved.

Earthquake in Reykjavik

2008-05-31T05:15:00.000-07:00

I was at work (29th of May) discussing with colleague how wonderful weather been this week. Suddenly tremor started. Chairs, desk, computers and whole house shaking crazily. That lasted for very short time about 5-10 seconds. Everyone went outside for safe. Later I gathered it was 6.7 Richter scale earthquake started from near by city Selfoss. Although this was very short and did not damage heavily but did destroy in small scale. Thank god no casualty. If this was for more than 5-10 seconds it would have certainly destroy a lot - God bless. Recently China had slightly bigger than this but for longer time - that has killed million people and damage very roughly.

Walking in ESJA (Asia) Mountain

2008-05-31T04:16:00.000-07:00

Weather was beautiful last Saturday. I decided to go to walk Esja Mountain, pronounced as Asia, which is located outskirt of Reykjavik. ESJA Mountain is just 914 meters high. While walking up to the mountain it remind me going to my village back home where there are no roads but walking for 3 hours to get our cousin’s house. I estimated hour and half for up and down. I started at 13:22 and reached at the top at 14:20, took me an hour. I was in my Jeans trouser otherwise would have reached on the top earlier than hour ;). It was not for set the record however. It took me while to come down due to Elías - I had to help him all the way down. He was really tried and pain in his legs. There were two path which is also called easy path (longer way) and difficult path (shorter way). I took the shorter way. I had to leave Elías way down as he was struggling to walk - understandable he is just 10 years old. But at least he tried.

I enjoyed this walking all the way up. The view from the mountain was magnificent and even from the top Reykjavik was simply fantastic. This was my first mountain walk in Iceland. I wanted to stay bit more on the top but crazy cold wind forced not me to stay longer but two minutes.

Phulchoki - the mountain 2829m/ 9050ft. high which surrounds the valley of Kathmandu - The place I come from and the capital of Nepal. People stands a good chance of scaling the peak in less than three hours.

It was a tremendous enjoyment and experience walking up to ESJA Mountain. There are twenty nine mountains in Iceland and the highest one is 2111 Meters, called "Hvannadalshnjukur", 2nd highest is 2,000 Meters. Twenty three (23) of them in between 1,999 to 1,000 Meters and four are between 767 to 998 Meters. I will try to conquer some of the mountain this summer if weather favours.

Pictures

Eurovison

2008-05-31T03:34:00.000-07:00

Eurovision song contest is very famous once a year in Europe, especially Eastern Europe and Nordic countries. Although England competes every year but this show has never been popular in UK. While I lived in London for seven years I did not hear about the programme until I moved to Iceland. Perhaps English premiership has dominated and sidelined this programme. This year Russia managed to grab the first place with comfortable vote from across the Europe. I am not a great music fan but there were other songs deserve to win - I guess.

Eurovision is something special event in Iceland too. People prepare to watch this program ahead and organize parties with friends & family. Roads are empty – off course whole nation eager to see their country performing and desperate to vote others. You can see hardly any transport on the road - "clean environment". Some cyclist quoted “Best day for cycling”. Sadly Iceland did not manage to come in top ten -perhaps next year and good luck to them.

New Nepal and Politics of Nepal

2008-04-25T03:04:00.000-07:00

Politics in Nepal been always unstable and somehow politicians never did the real politics. It’s sad to see country going back rather forward for development. After years in jungle fighting for their ideology "Maoist" won the majority of seat in constitution election recently. Despite their "terrorist tag" by US, Maoist winning majority seat not only surprised Nepali people but it has surprised whole international community. Nepalese voted them not because they are rebels, moist or so but one can certainly think this is due to frustration of what other major parties did in the past when they were in government. Maoist has now opportunity to prove themselves that they actually differ from others. It will be difficult for them to work under those circumstances but this time Nepalese people voted them to re-build the New Nepal. Thousands of lives had lost during the insurgency.

For me and perhaps many Nepalese, whoever comes in the government - they should exercise clean politics, bring development agenda and off course keep the country peace. Let’s be positive and hopeful that they will do something new and make real "New Nepal" otherwise they knows Nepali people will not tolerate.

Summer started - A special day!

2008-04-24T08:37:00.001-07:00

Today is a special day in Iceland and a national holiday. It is not something religious, milestones or spiritual holiday but its a celebration of official summer start. Summer is very short in Iceland(Approximately three month) and perhaps applies to other Nordic countries too. Winter is very long and daylight is very short, on top snow, heavy rain, strong wind and aggressive thunders.
So, this day is marked to welcome the summer - at least for three month people can enjoy SUN. 24 hour daylight also begins from this day. City is busy with full of activities and people exchanging their happy summer wish to their friends, family and loved ones.

Happy Summer!!

Language Skill Test

2008-03-12T11:02:00.000-07:00

Although I took very few hours in learning Icelandic but being around with native Icelanders and my own effort to talk in Icelandic I realized that my language skills has also improved. So, I decided to take a test if I am really acquiring at least minimum knowledge on this. Today I went to place called FJÖLMENNING to measure my language skills. Initially they said it will take more than an hour and off course I was very scared because I only had very basic knowledge. I was confident that I will fail the test. On top it has a three series of test Listening, writing and speaking. But surprisingly I finished all the test in less than half an hour and got "PASSED". I was so happy to get at least pass. In the past I had given up many times to learn this language but having sitting in this test has alerted me that my languague skills has progressed unknowingly. Now I can actually say "I can speak Icelandic", not like native Icelanders however.

Shiva Ratri - Smoke Free

2008-03-06T12:46:00.000-08:00

Today - a day to remember in hindu countries "Shiva Ratri" and public holiday in Nepal. Shiva - the name of God, Ratri means evening. So, it refers to God´s Evening. A hindu festival celebrated widely in Nepal & India every year. On this day smoking marijuana is almost acceptable. Here is the link for more

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri

"Jai Sambhoo Kailash Pati" - a phrase uses for this God

University Student Again

2008-03-04T01:34:00.000-08:00

I have been exploring all the possibilities to do some kind of degree program that will help in my further studies particularly in research. Choices in Iceland are very limited and sometimes barrier to take such programme due to language skills. Recently I visited my old university in London and meet all my lectures, professors and co-workers. It is always nice to meet them. As I spoke to one of my professor about my interest in research. Interestingly LSBU is starting a new degree programme from this summer which fulfill my desire and help in my other circumstances for example travel etc. Entry requirements is Master degree and several years experience in the area you will be doing research. Professor confirmed for the entry this summer and am very excited to start. This will be collaboration between my work and LSBU. Beginning of May I will be writing research proposal and begin my field of interest. If everything goes well end of the programme I will be awarded Msc in Research. This will off course open door for me if I ever wants to do PhD.

A Computer

2008-01-29T07:37:00.000-08:00

I found this machine at my work´s library room. Was playing with this small computer, I actually liked it. Introduced in 1984, weight 3.8Lbs, CPU 80c85, 2.4 MHZ with 32K, 64 Max, bar code reader, 300 Baud Modem and 40X8 Character display. OS Microsoft Basic v1.1 in ROM. It works perfectly fine and perhaps it was the great device at the time. Imagine today with 2 GB RAM, 200 GB storage, 2.5 GHz with L2 cache with extensive audio video, how fast things can be done - shall I say this is technology revolution ? Yes it is. Application require more memory, cpu speed and storage so normal configuration like this is beyond the scope today. Faster faster - don´t know how fast it will be in next 5 to 10 years time. old stuff can be found here .

http://oldcomputers.net

American Pie - The song I always fan of

2008-01-27T14:18:00.000-08:00

Not long ago, Valberg used to tease me because I always pick up this song when we used to Karaoke. Not only him perhaps some of my other friends are also irritated when I sing this song but whatever they feel, I just love this song since I was at school.

Many song writers inspired by something as Don MacLean inspired by memories of the death of Buddy Holly in 1959. This song is one of the best ever and still played in many many pubs, clubs and parties.

Not much choice

2007-12-28T13:22:00.000-08:00

I have been interested in doing some management degree from long time. Soon after my 2nd degree I had thought about this too but put on hold for couple of years. Couple of weeks ago I started to explore the possibilities around Icelandic academic institutions. They all offer the courses such as MBA, MPM however neither of the program offers in English. But, yet international Universities such as the University of Iceland should offer more choices and flexible time table for students. Sadly they do not have range of choices for those who like to study as part-time basis. Next the University of Reykjavik - a private institution, who offer course i.e MBA in English but their tuition fees are ridiculously expensive. It cost 650.000 KR(5150 British pound) per semester and they haven´t mentioned how many semester it involves. here is what they said about the fees.

###
Tution fees for MBA Class of 2009 Tuition fees are 650.000 IKR per semester. This covers the cost of all seminars, books, and other teaching materials.
For the international seminars the tuition fees are 3000 Euros each. This covers the cost of teaching, materials, travel and accommodation.
###

Not even that the year I came to Iceland I was interested doing Master degree in communication in the University of Iceland. It was not available either. It is sometime disappointing and discouraging not having such choice and flexibility for those who wanted to do something they are interested in. On the other hand perhaps I should blame myself not adopting local language quickly - well in two years. The University of Iceland is a international university and should offer range of courses in various degree and diverse manner. That will enable students stop forced to go to sky rocketing tuition fees university and even aboard. It seems I will have to find some alternatives to fulfill my interest somewhere else or perhaps distance learning - which I don´t really prefer.

Quite & Snow

2007-12-28T13:00:00.000-08:00

Haven´t been updating much as you all know the obvious reason - Christmas time. Right in the Christmas Reykjavik been covered by full of snow. City seemed very quite, people celebrating Christmas with their families. Heavy snow fall at the Christmas time added extra joyful too - as people often called white Christmas. Since the Christmas eve the strong wind and freezing cold has also followed. Today, it was -8 degree outside - Very cold "not very nice" !

We also went to park other day with Helgi to play in the snow. Playing in snow is something different and with family makes even more joyful. However, to be honest in -8 cold moving snow off from my car this morning was not enjoyable.

Post not delivering

2007-12-03T06:42:00.000-08:00

It might be wrong if I say none of the post are delivering however many of the letters and cards that I posted never been delivered. Earlier in September I had posted cards from Denmark to Nepal, UK and Iceland addresses. I am still very surprised that my post still yet to deliver to Nepal and UK address. I am not in favor to say postal service in Denmark is bad. Normally regular posts should deliver from Europe to Europe within a week and Europe to Asia (Nepal) should reached say about three to four weeks. But it seem to me those posts will never be delivered. Last year (march) I was in London and did post some papers and card to Nepal in regular post, that has´t delivered yet too. I am not sure which side to blame either postal service in destination or the place where I sent from. It is rather frustrating sometime people don´t get the post even for a year. God knows where those posts are held.

My sister in England sent some letters and pack in regular post to Iceland (my home address) on 1st week of November that has´t arrived too. There is no information about the post on my name when asked to post office at my town. Since my post been vanishing I started posting registered mail - cost twice or three times than regular post but at least are delivering.

-----------Update-----------
It seemed that only regular (ordinary post) are not delivering. During the Christmas I sent all registered - outstanding results. All delivered in time.

Childhood Mates starts blogging

2007-11-28T04:48:00.000-08:00

Most of my childhood friends are living and working outside Nepal now. Many of them haven´t been touch for years. Sushil (a Medical Researcher)- who works and live in Thailand - created blog for all of our childhood mates from the town called Ratopul, to share, discuss and be in touch. This will certainly enable all of our oldies guys who are aboard feel that we are in same town with years of memories. I have been thinking of doing something like long ago but remained busy.

Here is the link. http://ratopoolzombies.blogspot.com. I also created mailing list for Ratopul guys please join or send me your email address.

Winter Strated!!!!

2007-11-24T09:36:00.001-08:00

Its late in November but Icy cold, strong cold wind, Snow and freezing weather has started bit early than last year. Weather in Iceland is unpredictable and hostile. Asia mountain is the highest mountain you can see from Reykjavik area which is 1000 Meter, 7848 meter less higher than Mt. everest. But you can see that mountain is covered by snow. Perhaps reminder of Christmas.

Well, while I was driving to my work other day temperature meter along the way showed -7 degree. My beers were frozen at my balcony. Pict Attached: Back in my town (Kathmandu), temperature can go maximum 25-29 degree and minimum -1 which is adjustable and nice compare to -7.

My friend Valberg in Australia - writes 30 degree in his area, http://valberg.name. My family Elin and Helgi are in Florida at the moment they also witnessed 25-29 degree temperature down there. I am certain they are enjoying the hot weather but 30 degree is bit too much. Highest temperature in Iceland never go more than 17 degree during June and July. Well last year it went down to -15 degree, hope that won´t happen this year.

My car´s Number plate stolen

2007-11-19T23:40:00.000-08:00

First my bike was stolen then now car number plate. Both of them in two month time. Our old car had been broken for a while - as we have another new car and live close by the town we just parked at our parking place and decided not to fix this time. Yesterday I got a phone call from our local police station telling me someone actually has stolen number plate from the back of the car and used for their own car. Although this car had been broken down for quite long time, it had passed all the yearly inspection before broken down. Whoever took the number plate was useful for their own car -perhaps their car did not pass the yearly inspection. Now your parking area is not safe anymore.

I have to go to police station today to make report about this. Hopefully I will get my number plate back. And Thanks to local police they found out very quickly.

Elin, Helgi and family members on holiday -"Florida"

2007-11-18T08:41:00.000-08:00

I should have joined with them on holiday in Florida but some reason I could not go. They will be away for complete two weeks in 30-40 degree sunshine. It was about -4 degree cold outside yesterday and day before here in Iceland. Lucky them.

Palli cleaned up his Desk

2007-11-14T00:38:00.000-08:00

One may think why I am writing about my friend´s working desk - the question itself is another question to me!!

I wish, I had old picture of my dear colleague-friend palli´s desk. It was not really bad though but looked like professor´s desk(indeed good to have hundreds of books around along with some coffee cups), you can think of old professor or the scientist´t desk (like Einstein). Perhaps am missing that environment or simply do not recognize as a Palli´s desk. Anyway, it has changed enormously. Pict attached.

Visit to My Old School- After 15 years

2007-11-02T07:44:00.000-07:00

Memories are important in life - as one says "Life is full of memories". And this memory depends in individuals. There are lots of memories in my mind, writing them all here might take another 4-5 month if I at least try to summarize. I am certainly not going to do that- however, some memories which make you sentimental will certainly be wroth putting them down. One of those events of mine was visiting my school after fifteen years recently. The school I had spent those early beautiful 13 years, the school who taught me from A, B, C to Trigonometry, Newton’s laws of motion, computers, add, subtract, divide, discipline and you name it. I acquired all those knowledge from the same school which is located in my local town. School was opened under remembrance of Martyrs´ during 2007 BS (Nepalese calender,57 years ago) when people demanded for democracy in Nepal. It was established in 2025 BS( Nepalese calender, 39 years ago) and named "Martyrs Memorial Boarding High School".

When I started there were very few boarding schools across Kathmandu Valley, and this was one of them. At the time my school was one of the best family owned -run private school. Our principal we called her "Madam", Gauri Rana Joshi - a dedicated woman, always working towards betterment of school services and provide quality educations. I admire this woman until today. Off course my attachments to this school been so strong as I had spent 8-9 hours a day in those 13 years. I have enormous number of good, bad, sad and happy event with this school. In those glorious years at school I also meet many friends. Some continued their study until they graduate some left early. Those who continued from the beginning until class ten I had an opportunity to spend my time with them and became bosom. I still keep in touch with at least few of them today. These friends I called them "Friends" which cannot be forgotten. Although I spent another seven years in the University in

England

and had meet many friends but only handful of University’s friends are in touch today. Perhaps we were mixture people from around the globe. But yet this was another and different memory.

Earlier this year(September 2007) I tried to gather all my school time friends during holiday in Nepal. Wishing to spend some time, talking oldies events and share things from last fifteen years. I could not gather as many as I wished because many of them now settled outside Nepal. But few of them I managed and was very delighted to meet despite their busy schedule. We decided to meet at Durbar Square (Kathmandu) restaurant. I was the first person to be in time at the venue followed by Mamata, Rajan, Niru, Lava, Anju. Everyone was delighted to see each other. I had a feeling that now we are matured but interestingly our oldies talks began by Lava. Everyone was waiting for listen 15 years interval stories. It was simply fantastic. As soon Lava finished everyone says - oh my god ! yes it was clearly 15 years ago since we graduate from school. Now, Rajan - works at National Bank of Nepal as a Researcher, Niru - Fashion designer, Lava -Software Architect, Anju- works for some private company, Mamta - involves in music and myself - work as a System Engineer. So, it was great to know about how they are doing in their field. We spent good couple of hours. Soon after this I purposed all of them to visit our school - everyone accepted and scheduled to visit our beloved school on next week

For me, I was very much excited to visit school and talk with school kid and so on. Everyone came in precise time at school. Few things I realized immediately when entering to school. Security has been improved and decoration of reception has changed. It is understandable of this change in 15 years time - assumed they have also adopted with time. In school I was delighted to see two teachers who are still there namely Luitel sir and Sova miss as we called them back in our school time. They recognize us instantally and I can see the happiness in their face that we went to see them. it is normal that most of their students do not return to the school to visit them - that’s obvious. We wanted to walk around to the classes we studied and speak to the current students about our experiences of the school. Rajan and I gave short talk to the eight grade student. Luitel sir now a principal of the school took us around the classes; Lava became sentimental and stopped to see the situation of school and the classes. We realized that school now is in very difficult and poor situation. We been told that school traded too many people since we left. Past shareholder of the school had put this school in huge dept and in poor condition - as we heard. But I took some picture where we studied eight grades. When we were in class Ten - school recorded 1500 students but now they have very little number about 100. This is indeed very sad for the school. School has gone in worse condition. They could not compete with other private schools across capital etc

Anyway, as we pass through the playing ground Lava and I tried few shorts (basketball) as we played in the same place 15 years ago. Lava could not score as he did not before too. Picture attached. Sadly Lava lost the Bike helmet. We will remember this event in years to come - he agreed. We spent quite good time at the school. Our oldies teacher offered some soft drinks and shared experiences individually. I asked to the Teacher "How you feel when your students come to see you like this?" He just smiled and replied - just sweet and fantastic. He has probably taught hundreds of students like us, some may have done well in their career and some may not. But his response to all of them was quite positive and proud of his students. He said jokingly - I wasn’t married at the time you were graduating but now have few kids and no hair, you see. Now it’s your time. It was just great time to gather like this and everyone enjoyed enormously.

After visiting school I felt we should be helping if we can and bring all together from my batch. Created mailing list batch2049@googlegroups.com for all to join and get in touch. Hoping this will enable us to discuss the matter. Please join in this group if you can. Nevertheless some schools that were in prime time 15 years ago do not exists anymore but this school still exists and serving for the community´s children. Most importantly those students whoever will spend time (well several years in this school) will certainly remember and perhaps write memories like me today.

Thanks to all my beloved friends from school.

First Time to Dentist

2007-10-31T03:32:00.000-07:00

I never went to the Dentist in last 29 years. Never had any problem with my teeth. But earlier this year I had an opportunity to go to Dentist for comparatively with no cost. I grabbed that opportunity not because I had problems in my teeth but just to clean up. When I told dentist that I never been to check up before - they were very surprised. One of the senior Prof. in fact was very interested to do some test of my teeth. He took some sample for research - as he said. Anyway I went all those initial process such as taking picture of my teeth and putting some stuff (don’t remember that medicine name now).

As this was going to be done from final year dental student - they divide their job in different phase. Initial process was just the brief inspection and taking pictures etc. I was re-registered for another (final) process of teeth cleaning week later. Next week I went Læknigarður to clean up my teeth for first time and further inspection. Dentist showed my last week report and that surprised them enormously. They only found two holes in my teeth - isn’t it good? And said it’s very minor! They keep asking about my diet back in Nepal, England and Iceland. My replied to them was obvious because nothing has been changed in my diet except the different water -off course. They actually fixed my both hole and cleaned up my untouched teeth from last 29 years. It was bit uncomfortable that day but was fine by the end of the week. Most importantly I did not have to pay as much as when you go to the regular check-up, pretty nice!!

Now it looks like I am having regular pain in my teeth and sometimes I feel really uncomfortable when I am eating hard stuff. Don’t know this is because I went to dentist or perhaps my teeth are getting worse. If I would not have gone to the dentist - my tooth have less problem and less pain? This question perhaps has no logic but physiological thought might be true. Or shall I blame to Icelandic water, chocolates and food? Nevertheless, the dentist will perhaps discover two holes in next 29 years, that will even surprised many - I will be more than happy to have four holes in my tooth in the age of 59.

Game called Bandý

2007-10-29T09:00:00.000-07:00

I joined Reknistofunn Háskola íslands in late october 2005. Guys had just stared playing so called new game "Bandý". After a week Valberg from software department asked me if I would be interested in playing this game. Because I put much interest on outdoor and indoor games, my replied to him was “YES” instantly. I did not know this game at all. Valberg briefed that they also started recently and explained bits and pieces about the rules. So I imagined this would be pretty much playing Hockey. I agreed with valberg that I will turn up next week session to give a try. Week later we all went to the Gym hall to kick off. I picked up one the "bat" thinking just how I’m going to play this. Valberg seemed team captain and he divide the team in two. Soon I found out that hitting the ball, passing to your friend and make a score (that was the main theme of the game) was the idea of this game in allocated time. I used some technique of my cricket skill - did help a bit of. However did not do well in the game anyway. All guys were telling me - oh! You did well, you are good etc. But deep in my heart I knew I did not play bandý at all, simply I was running all around. They were just making such statement to encourage me playing and continuing to play this game in regular basis.

I stared to exploring about the game. In fact we were playing Floorball. This game comes from Northern Europe and popular in those nations. However, other nations have also started to play. Details on floor ball can be found on this link http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Floorball

Since first attempt, I started acquiring some technique from others and making score too. I did not score as much valberg and siggi did but managed to do couple of them. Although I am reasonably okay player however I am more player than scorer. Now this game has fascinated me and do play in regular basis. I also bought professional stick which helps me for accurate pass and score.

Here is the picture I was trying to score against valberg and Pálli. It is always good trying something new and enjoys playing it. Thanks for Valberg and friends putting on this game. Back in Nepal we do not play such game but it might be interesting to introduce them.

Learning Language!

2007-10-26T00:14:00.000-07:00

My native language is "Nepalese" but I learned English from early childhood. It was bit of difficult in the beginning learning English. Nepalese was widely spoken in every corners of my hometown; speaking fluent English was bit of strange and difficult anyway. Although you understood what other people speaking in English but open communication was a real difficult. Presume it was just due to lack of practice. So by the time when I finished my school - I managed to write/speak satisfactory English.

I joined college afterwards where all the course materials were in English and lectures were too so it was kind of mandatory to improve on language side too. After finishing my college I went to University in England. Off course all the course and the teaching medium was in English. In order to join university it was compulsory that you take either IELTS or Cambridge Advance English Course. So I did the second one which enabled me to go to university for degree program. I picked up reasonably okay with all the lectures and all those English slang etc and so on. Because of this English was not that difficult to understand and to speak.

Another challenge of learning language is "Icelandic". I started working in Iceland in late October 2005 and determined to learn Icelandic too. Enrolled couple of classes did pick up bits and pieces. It has been almost 2 and half years in Iceland now I am still learning "the Icelandic". Confidence is something I need to build up on this language. Although my work environment, family environment are native Icelandic and does speak Icelandic all the time, it has been very difficult for me to adopt completely. However, in those couple of years I build up my understanding capacity when people talk. In fact I given up learning Icelandic many times but my inner feeling always push me to learn again - well one day!.

But I meet many people like me who been in Iceland for years and having difficulties adopting language skills. Perhaps they are not putting effort-don’t know. Maybe it is difficult language to learn. Hey I just been here approximately three years I can still confidently say - bless núna.

Lazy in Writing !!

2007-10-25T12:00:00.001-07:00

I thought I would be more active in writing blog but been very lazy to do so. You can see some title I initially started and incomplete that proves 100% being so lazy. However lazy might not be the right word to address for this context because on the other hand I was heavily busy with my daily routine i.e my job. So work made me too occupied which leave no time to do something else. And perhaps it made me so "Lazy in Writing".

I will try my best to now onward at least fill some lines in my blog. Many things had happened but its now all too old. Perhaps dumping too old stuff might not be the good idea but anyway I will now start.

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US Visit

2007-04-22T08:19:00.001-07:00

My First Blog

2007-04-22T08:17:00.000-07:00