The Sagarmatha Gurkha/Nepalese Community Ashford, Kent (SGNCAK) successfully organised its Dashain/Tihar Celebration Party 2026 on Saturday, 17 October 2026, at St Simon Stock Catholic Church Hall, Ashford, Kent.
Held under the theme “Joy Unites Us – Beyond Faith, Beyond Boundaries!”, the event brought together community members, families, guests and well-wishers to celebrate Nepalese culture, traditions and heritage.
Although traditionally known as the Dashain/Tihar Celebration Party, the event went beyond religious significance, reflecting the rich cultural diversity and shared heritage of all Nepalese people, regardless of faith, caste or individual beliefs.
The celebration highlighted the Community’s continued commitment to embracing diversity, respecting individual beliefs, strengthening unity and promoting social cohesion within the Community and wider society.
The event was honoured by the presence of Chief Guest Cllr Peter Feacey and Special Guest Rt Hon Sojan Joseph MP, along with other distinguished guests.
The formal programme was conducted by General Secretary Ram Prasad Limbu. It began with a welcome speech by Chief Vice-Chairperson Chiran Rai, followed by the traditional candle-lighting ceremony and the Nepalese and British National Anthems.
A one-minute silence was observed in memory of those who lost their lives in the recent devastating floods in Nepal, as well as to honour and remember the Community members who had recently passed away, particularly the late Late Hon Lt (QGO) Surya Bahadur KC, the beloved father of Dhailendra KC Public Secretary of the community.
Event Coordinator Vice-Chairperson Bimala Limbu expressed her sincere appreciation to the distinguished guests, sponsors, volunteers, performers and everyone who contributed to the event’s success.
In his address, Chairperson Mohan Limbu extended warm Dashain and Tihar greetings to everyone and highlighted the importance of preserving Nepalese culture, traditions and heritage while strengthening friendship, unity and social cohesion within the wider community.
He briefly outlined the Community’s various activities and contributions to local society, including the Sagarmatha Cup, Annual Ashford Cleaning Day, Health Education and Awareness Programme (HEAP), support for local food banks and participation in the Royal British Legion’s annual Poppy Appeal.
The Chairperson also highlighted the Community’s humanitarian response to the recent devastating floods in Nepal. He expressed sincere gratitude to Karen Page and her team for organising the Walk for Nepal Flood Relief at Julie Rose Stadium, and to Mr Bhimraj Tumbahangphe, Chairman of the Gurkha Peace Foundation, for his continued cooperation and support. He reaffirmed the Community’s pledge to contribute 10 lakh Nepalese rupees (approximately £5,000) towards supporting the flood victims.
He further expressed heartfelt gratitude to Beth Peal, Chief Executive Officer of Ashford Volunteer Centre, and Cllr Peter Feacey, for their continued support in providing office and meeting facilities. This support has enabled the Community to hold meetings and run Nepalese language classes for children, helping younger generations preserve their cultural identity while growing up as responsible and respectful citizens of British society.
The Chairperson also shared the Community’s long-term “Dream Project” of establishing its own community hall, which would serve not only the Nepalese community but also the wider society, providing a welcoming space for cultural activities, community engagement and social integration.
Before formally concluding the official programme, he thanked the distinguished guests, Event Coordinator, Executive Committee, volunteers, sponsors and everyone involved in making the celebration possible.
The evening then continued with a lively entertainment programme jointly conducted by Cultural Secretary Om Magar and Assistant Secretary Shikhar Limbu, featuring colourful cultural performances, traditional songs and dances by local artists.
A special highlight was the performance by guest artist Rajendra Kerung from Nepal, who added excitement and festive spirit to the celebration. The evening also included a raffle draw, dinner and other entertainment, creating a joyful atmosphere of friendship and togetherness.
The event was coordinated by Vice-Chairperson Bimala Limbu, assisted by Vice-Chairperson Milan Rai, with the dedicated support of the Executive Committee, volunteers, sponsors and community members.
The celebration concluded successfully, reflecting SGNCAK’s continued commitment to preserving Nepalese culture and heritage, strengthening community relationships and promoting unity and social cohesion regardless of faith, caste, background or individual beliefs.
