Meet Sunanda Dangol | Cultural Event Crafter and Planner ( NEPALI JATRA)

We had the good fortune of connecting with Sunanda Dangol and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sunanda, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I have planned events for a long time. I always wanted to represent Nepali culture to the world. Our culture is our identity, and each Nepali celebration has a story and folklore attached to it which makes it even more meaningful. After all, history belongs to all of us; it should be preserved and shared with all cultures.

Secondly, I have met many Nepalese youngsters who, although they know the language, they do not speak it amongst their friends or family. I feel this is due to a lack of consistent exposure and the lack of need to speak the language. Perhaps, they do not want to be different or we (the elders) haven’t prioritized our culture enough or haven’t explained about our cultural roots. It is imperative to understand that celebrating cultural performances and rituals in distinct ways lend and contribute to creating unique identities.

Furthermore, the most important reason for formulating events such as the Nepali Jatra is that people from different cultures have to be included in decision-making processes in order for programs or policies to be effective. The people affected by a decision have to be involved in formulating solutions; it’s a basic democratic principle. Without the input and support of all the groups involved, decision-making, implementation, and follow through are much less likely to occur.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
When I was studying in Austria, I was able to travel around Europe to see what it felt like to witness these breathtaking cultures in person. It gave me a perspective on how I could incorporate cultures into events and make it unique. This uniqueness sets my Events apart from all the general events that happens everywhere in the city.

Lucky for me, I come from Nepal. It has 129 ethnicities and 123 languages. Literally, Nepal celebrates 50 major cultures from various communities.
Promoting my birthplace, exposing its culture and heritage in an international platform is a pride and a privilege that I hold dear to my heart. My love for my culture is naturally inherited because I have seen and lived the life. Now, I am making an effort to instill the same love of culture and teaching the reason behind its celebration makes it impactful and meaningful to our children which will inspire them to connect to their culture and hopefully acquire appreciation.
My wishful heart hopes these festivals cultivate strong connections and treasure the cultural heritage, take pride and hopefully preserve it to our future generations.

Was it easy? Life and work are not fun if it has no challenges. The task is daunting, many hurdles but not impossible. The spirit is what it matters. The outcome may not be the same as you expect but I am not the kind who looses hope.

I understand the importance of hard work and being committed to my obligations. I accept this opportunity as a learning process, sometimes you are going to make mistakes and other times have successes. I have learned to accept both graciously.

To the world, I have a simple request. There are people who have different beliefs, religions, traditions, and ways of living. It is within our differences that we can find beauty. Let’s make an effort to learn our similarities and accept the differences !

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Day 1. Easy close by trip

Carter Lake Reservoir is a close by getaway from my home. Even the thought of Carter Lake makes me happy. On the way to Carters Lake, I would love to get a good breakfast at Grandpa’s Cafe in Berthoud. Their Eggs Benedict and Grandpa’s Burger is a must try.

After tummy full of goodness, I would go enjoy the clean water, Paddle boating or just watch the sail boats and Mountains with amazing views. The best of both worlds in one spot. I can spend all day at the lake.

On the way back, I would go to Colorado Curry for dinner. It’s the same location, where Grandpa’s Cafe is. Yes, the same place offers American breakfast in the morning and Nepali Dinner in the evening. Double whammy again. I love it !
My all time favorite is Chicken Tikka Masala and Chicken Curry with Champagne or sparkling wines. It is a perfect accompaniment to spicy foods, I love subtle sweetness, high acidity and bubbly texture helps cleanse the palate.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I come from Nepal, where women are expected to get married early and raise a family (Thank God … scenarios are changing now). Although my mom did have such cultural expectations for me; she still helped me pursue my dreams. I appreciate all the things she has sacrificed to give me a good life and education.

My husband, Michael and my Matina and Nishaan are my rock.

My family is very understanding, and we all share equal loads of house chores. (Although my husband claims that he does much more than I do.) Their support has helped me a lot in my career. Events require a lot of weekends and after hours; Michael handles kids and kitchen and their activities like a CHAMP.

One night, my daughter, Matina came to me and said, “Mama, I understand if you can’t come and tuck me in the bed because I know how important this event is to you, and how you want the people of Longmont to know about your culture and Nepal.” I felt so proud of my girl and her understanding of the situation! It was such an uplifting statement for me.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sunanda.dangol

Image Credits
Mr. Bharat Kumar Shrestha and Mr. Prafulla Singh