By Lila Seling Mabo
ALDERSHOT — The Greater Rushmoor Nepali Community (GRNC) proudly participated in the Victoria Day Celebration held on Saturday, 6 June 2026, in Aldershot. Organized by the Rushmoor Borough Council, the vibrant event provided an exceptional platform to promote Nepali art, culture, heritage, and identity within the wider British community, bringing together more than 20 local Nepali organizations.
The overall programme was expertly coordinated by Dr. Bishal Gurung, while volunteer management was overseen by Councillor Uttar Bahadur Gurung. The procurement of essential materials and event supplies was managed by Vice Presidents Menyangbo and Anita Rai. Official coordination with the local council, along with the completion of all administrative and documentation processes, was smoothly carried out by Lieutenant (Retired) Sunil Rana, General Secretary of GRNC.
A wide array of prominent community organizations took part in the celebration, including Pratham Naumati Baja, Tamu Dhee UK, Sahara UK, Shiva Cultural & Community Centre, BCC UK, Kirat Yakthung Chumlung Greater Rushmoor Branch, Lamjung Samaj UK, UHSB Magar Association Rushmoor Branch, Kirat Rai Yayokkha Greater Rushmoor Branch, Pasa Puchah Guthi UK (Aldershot), 1st Gorkha Aama Samuha, NANA UK, Gorkha Aama Samuha, and the Nepali Support Group, among several others.
Meanwhile, the bustling GRNC promotional tent was managed and promoted by Project Manager Sushila Thapa, Assistant Project Manager Sanjay Rai, Trustee Lead Captain (Retired) Gary Ghale, executive member Shreya Gurung, and their dedicated team.
The participating groups captivated spectators with a rich array of traditional cultural performances and parade displays, featuring the Lakhe Dance, Dhime Baja, Chyabrung, Sorathi, Ghatu, and Kauda. Reflecting the immense collective effort, dedication, and enthusiasm of the entire Nepali community, GRNC was delighted to secure Second Place in the highly competitive Cultural Parade.
Following the parade, a special appreciation ceremony was held at the GRNC office. During the event, Deputy Mayor Jib Belbase, Councillors Dhan Sarki and Uttar Gurung, and guest artist Sharmila Gurung were formally honoured for their continuous contributions and support. The occasion also featured a heartfelt farewell ceremony for Jharana Gurung, a dedicated teacher of the GRNC Nepali Language Class.
Securing second place at Victoria Day 2026 stands as a matter of immense pride for the entire GRNC family. The executive committee extends its deepest gratitude to all participating organizations, advisors, trustees, the founder president, past presidents, volunteers, artists, well-wishers, and community members whose unwavering commitment made this success possible.
GRNC also expresses its sincere appreciation to the Rushmoor Borough Council for providing such a valuable opportunity to showcase Nepali traditional attire, arts, and culture to the wider public. Media coverage, including video production, photography, and press coordination for the historic day, was efficiently managed by Milan Tamu, Media Coordinator of GRNC.
President Lila Seling Mabo thanks to everyone for your incredible hard work, exceptional teamwork, and continued dedication to serving our community.
