Kathmandu,The Gehendra Dhimal Foundation is thrilled to announce A Night to Remember, taking place on August 23, 2024, at Club 10X in Thamel, Kathmandu. This exclusive, invitation-only event will feature a captivating evening of musical poetry performances, uniting diplomats, celebrities, art and literature lovers, film actors, sports stars, influencers, music personalities, and television personalities. Dedicated to supporting and showing solidarity with queer individuals, the event focuses on human rights and queer rights for the LGBTQIA+ community.

Supported by the United States Embassy in Kathmandu and IM Swedish Development Partner, and creatively partnered with The Poet Idol, the event will provide a platform for queer artists and allies to share their poems, highlighting emotions that have often been overlooked.

Media partners include MORPH Magazine, a photography-based collectible art magazine, and Kalakarmi, an entertainment news portal of Nepal. Production support comes from Location Nepal Pvt. Ltd., an international film production and service company renowned for its expertise in global film and photography productions in Nepal, Trexmin Media, specializing in graphics, animation, and editing, and the Presenters Association of Nepal (PAN). Club 10X, our venue partner, has been actively supporting social initiatives and businesses, providing a platform for young performers and engaging in various CSR activities.

This year, the event’s jury, comprising Gauri Malla and Viplob Pratik, has selected the 10 best poems from an overwhelming number of submissions. Gauri Malla, one of Nepal’s finest actors, a writer, singer, and poet, and Viplob Pratik, known for his exceptional poems, literature, and film scripts, will also be performing. Gauri Malla will open the evening, and Viplob Pratik will close it with their own poetic performances. The selected poets who will take center stage are Anu Shahi Thakuri, Rupesh Bhattarai, Sammy, Barsha Bhandari, Sandeep Shrestha, Nabin Karki, Sudip Wagle, Arya Kharel, Achyut Paudel, and Birat Bijay Ojha.

Gautam Dhimal, Chairperson of the Gehendra Dhimal Foundation, shared: “We’re delighted to offer a space where everyone can share their story and connect through art. A Night to Remember is an opportunity to celebrate creativity and inclusion, bringing diverse voices together in a meaningful way.” Gautam Dhimal, a philanthropist, award-winning photographer, and film producer, has made significant contributions to the arts with global clients and major studios.

Garrett E. Wilkerson, Public Affairs Chief of the U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu, said: “The U.S. Embassy is proud to support this event which exemplifies our commitment to promoting freedom of expression and fostering inclusion. LGBTQ+ rights are human rights. That’s why it’s essential to create opportunities that recognize their humanity and authentic voices.”

Sabin Basnet, Secretary of the Foundation, added: “This event reflects our dedication to promoting art and literature in Nepal. We’re excited for what promises to be a memorable night for everyone involved.”

A Night to Remember will feature moving performances that offer a voice to queer artists and allies, fostering empathy and encouraging emotional openness. Attendees will experience live performances, reflect on the themes and emotions presented, and connect with others who share a passion for music and poetry.

The Gehendra Dhimal Foundation continues to be a force for positive change, creating spaces where art and culture thrive. For more information about the Foundation and its work, visit www.dhimal.org.