Tihar, also known as Deepawali or Yamapanchak, is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in Nepal. This vibrant and colourful festival, which usually spans five days, is a time for joy, togetherness, and festivity. However, it is important to ensure that the celebrations are safe and responsible. Tihar festival is a memorable and enjoyable experience for everyone so here are some key safety tips for you to celebrate Tihar safely and responsibly:

Firecracker safety

Firecrackers, even though illegal, have been an integral part of Tihar celebrations, especially on the day of Laxmi Puja. While they add to the festive atmosphere, they can also pose various risks. This is why it is imperative to follow some safety tips when handling fireworks.

One of the safety tips is that you only purchase fireworks from people you know. While igniting firecrackers, keep a safe distance and never point them at people, animals, or buildings. Choose an open field to light your crackers.

For additional safety, have a bucket of water or sand nearby to extinguish any accidental fires and make sure that the children are always supervised.

Pet or animal safety

Any kind of loud noises and bright lights from firecrackers can be distressing to people so naturally animals, both domestic and wild, will also be distressed. As a part of celebrating Tihar responsibly, be thoughtful about the four-legged friends around you who might get spooked by the crackers. Safety tips are for every living being around you.

Keep your pets indoors during the peak of the celebrations to reduce their stress. Maintain distance, as they have sensitive ears and can be easily scared and anxious by it. If you do not own a pet but your neighbours do, inform them if you plan to use fireworks. Also, if you are lighting firecrackers, do not throw or light them in areas with wildlife.

Electrical safety or fire hazards

Like crackers, decorating homes with colourful lights and lamps is a cherished Tihar tradition. If you are using electrical decorations, it is crucial to follow electrical safety measures and if you are using candles or diyos then you need to be mindful and keep it away from flammable objects.

So one of the safety tips is to ensure that all electrical decorations are in good working condition and check each one if possible. Avoid overloading electrical circuits and outlets. And though you want to keep your house lit throughout, do not leave lights on overnight or unattended.

Food safety

Along with the crackers and the lights, a big part of the Tihar festival is the exchange or consumption of a variety of sweets and dishes. To ensure food safety, practice good hygiene when preparing and serving food; prioritise these safety tips for your health.

Limit your intake from outside, as it is easy to get swayed, overindulge and spike your sugar intake.  Also, avoid coloured food items as they can get unhygienic during festival times. Cook and eat at home, in the right proportions.

Road safety

Tihar is a communal festival. It is also a time when people visit friends and family, which can lead to increased traffic. So do not drink and drive, hampering your and others’ lives. Always follow traffic rules and regulations and wear a helmet if you are riding a motorcycle.

Also, if you live near the streets, then make sure you are not on the streets to light your firecrackers. Even if you do, be mindful of the traffic and get into accidents. Similarly, take precautions so that you are not the one to disrupt it. If you have younger ones around you, tell them these safety tips repeatedly to be careful or always supervise them and their surroundings.

Last but not least, be mindful of the pedestrians and the animals around you and ensure their safety as well.

Emergency preparedness

And since we are talking about the accidents that might occur, you can celebrate this Tihar festival responsibly by staying prepared for emergencies. Ensure that you have a first aid kit and emergency contact numbers on hand, just in case as prevention is one of the best safety tips you can follow.

Know where the electrical outlets and switches are in case you need to cut the supply. Also keep either water, sand or fire extinguisher around you or know where it is kept. Regularly check the candles or diyos that are burning.

Always be in an open field to light your crackers to minimise damage or not start fires, just in case. If you are not in an open field, also take note of your nearest exits and spots where you can take covers. Also, since food poisoning and digestion can be an issue during festivals, have some over-the-counter medicines with you for relief.

Environmental responsibility

Tihar festival is not just about the firecrackers though, it is a beautiful festival that involves the worship of various animals and birds. It is essential to celebrate this aspect of the festival responsibly. One way you can do it is by ditching the firecrackers altogether and thinking about nature.

With all the festivities and gatherings, there may be an increase in litter and waste. To be responsible citizens, you must dispose of waste properly in designated bins. And lastly, avoid burning waste, as it can contribute to air pollution.

Other ways can be to avoid the use of plastic bags or non-biodegradable materials when offering food to crows, dogs, and cows. Opt for more organic and homemade items as much as you can. Use more reusable items rather than use-and-throws.

Kritan Chaudhary, 45, once lived an ordinary, content life. With his wife, a son, and a daughter, his family situation was stable. But farming alone could no longer sustain them. Despite his hard work, the results were disappointing, and his economic condition kept pulling him down.

So, Kritan decided to start a business selling ghonghi — freshwater snails — a delicacy of his own community. In 2019 (2076 BS), he opened the Ghonghi Center at his home in Dhelachaudi, Chaudandigadhi Municipality–5, Udayapur.

Inspired by his initiative, a few others started similar ventures. Some of those have since closed, while a few continue. Kritan’s, however, has flourished.

Today, his eatery is the most popular place in the area for ghonghi. Customers usually start arriving by noon, and the shop stays open late into the night.

His eatery now stands along the Madan Bhandari Highway in a place called Aampdada, about two kilometers east of Beltar Bazaar.

A large signboard reading “Ghonghi Corner” greets visitors by the roadside. The long building with an open yard was once a private school before the COVID-19 pandemic. After the school closed, Kritan rented the space and moved his business there.

“The shop had already started doing well back in Dhelachaudi,” he recalled, “but it was a bit far from the main road. People who wanted to eat ghonghi couldn’t easily reach us. So when this building became vacant, we shifted here.”

After moving to this location, he gained many new customers, thanks to the highway frontage. Although ghonghi sells best during the winter, Kritan’s shop stays busy year-round.

According to his son, Abdesh Chaudhary, many of their customers come back repeatedly. “People come not only from nearby areas but also from Dharan, Itahari, and Biratnagar,” he said. “Biratnagar is about 80 kilometers from here.”

What is ghonghi?

Ghonghi is a type of freshwater snail found in rivers, streams, and ponds. It has been a traditional food of the Tharu community for centuries and is often referred to as “Tharu seafood.” It is a staple dish among the Tharu, Dhimal, Rajbanshi, and other indigenous communities living in Nepal’s Tarai region.

It’s sometimes called the “Yarsagumba of the plains” because it is rich in calcium, protein, and other nutrients.

Nowadays, ghonghi is also farmed commercially in ponds, making it available throughout the year. Kritan does not raise them himself but buys them from places like Beltar and Fatepur, where they cost around Rs 80–90 per kilogram.

Aside from being a traditional delicacy, ghonghi is also considered beneficial for health. It’s believed to be rich in calcium and good for bone-related problems such as pain and strain, which, Kritan says, is another reason people come to eat it.

How is it prepared?

The preparation process is long and laborious.

According to Kritan, once the snails are brought from the pond, they are soaked in water overnight. The tip (tail) of the shell is then cut off, washed thoroughly, and boiled. After boiling, they are washed again, and the inner hard part, called khil, is removed. Only then are they cooked with salt, oil, and spices.

A plate of ghonghi, containing about 25–30 pieces, sells for Rs 100 at his eatery.

A family business

Today, the Ghonghi Center has become a full-fledged family enterprise. Kritan, his wife Shanti Devi, daughter Srishti, and son Abdesh all work together. They also employ a few other helpers.

Their elder son, Paras, was once involved in the business too but has since gone abroad.

Now, most of the operations are managed by Abdesh, who has completed his +2 education. Besides helping with the family restaurant, he also drives vehicles such as jeeps, dozers, and tippers.

“When we ran the shop back home in Dhelachaudi, we used to sell around 10 kilograms of ghonghi a day,” he said. “Now, it’s 30 to 40 kilograms daily.”

Besides ghonghi, the shop also serves other local dishes. In winter, fish is available, along with local favorites like roasted soybeans with beaten rice. But ghonghi remains the main attraction.

Looking ahead, Kritan and his family plan to make their business more organised and expand it further.

As the Dashain is in full swing, many are looking forward to the festive feast. And for many goats are an integral part of Dashain, almost synonymous, making the biggest festival of the nation more special. But, during this festive season, you do not have to just enjoy the curry, you can also explore and enjoy more delicacies with other parts of the goat. So, here are some of the easy ways you can explore the goat meat dishes and appease your taste buds.

Muscle Meat

Starting from the most common one, you can certainly enjoy the meat of the goat. Tender cuts from the loin and rib areas, such as chops or racks, which are often prepared as grilled goat chops or roasted goat racks. These cuts are marinated with a blend of herbs, garlic, and olive oil before grilling or roasting to perfection. Tougher cuts from the shoulder or leg are ideal for slow-cooking methods like braised goat stew or goat curry. The meat is marinated and then cooked slowly with aromatic spices, resulting in tender and flavourful dishes.

Heart

Goat heart, with its distinct flavour and slightly dense texture, can be marinated in a mixture of spices, herbs, and oil for a few hours. After marinating, it can be skewered and grilled, resulting in a dish often known as grilled goat heart. Sliced goat heart can also be used in traditional stews, like goat heart stew, where it absorbs the flavours of the simmering broth and other ingredients.

Liver

Goat liver, known for its rich nutrient profile and robust flavour, can be sliced and sautéed with onions, garlic, and various spices to create spiced goat liver. Another popular dish is liver pâté, where the liver is cooked, blended with butter, herbs, and spices, and then chilled to form a spreadable paste, often enjoyed with crackers or bread.

Kidneys

Goat kidneys, with a tender texture and a rich, gamey taste, are commonly used in kidney pie or kidney stew. To prepare, the kidneys are cleaned, halved, and sautéed with onions, mushrooms, and a savoury sauce. The mixture is then enclosed in pastry for a pie or simmered for a hearty stew.

Tongue

Goat tongue is tender and flavourful, making it ideal for braised goat tongue. The tongue is marinated with spices, braised until tender, and thinly sliced for serving. It’s often served as part of sandwiches, tacos, or salads, enhancing their taste and texture.

Tripe

Tripe, the stomach lining of the goat, requires thorough cleaning before cooking. It’s commonly used in dishes like tripe soup or spiced tripe stew. The tripe is simmered with aromatic spices, vegetables, and sometimes beans to create a flavoursome and slightly chewy dish.

Pancreas

Thymus or pancreas of a goat, also called the sweetbreads, are delicate and creamy in texture. They are usually blanched to remove impurities, then pan-fried or grilled until golden brown. Pan-seared goat sweetbreads are a popular dish, often served with a flavourful sauce made from wine, herbs, and butter, enhancing their taste.

Bones and Marrow

Goat bones are often used to prepare goat bone broth. The bones are roasted to enhance flavour and then simmered with vegetables and herbs to make a rich, nutritious broth. The marrow, when extracted from the bones, can be spread on toast as roasted goat marrow toast or used to enrich sauces and stews.

Offal

In addition to liver and kidneys, other offal parts like the heart and liver can be used in dishes such as goat offal stew or mixed goat offal curry. These dishes incorporate a combination of organ meats, often braised or stewed with spices and vegetables for a hearty meal.

Skin

Goat skin can be utilized to make crispy goat skin snacks. The skin is seasoned, dried, and then roasted or fried until crispy, resulting in a crunchy snack. It can also be used in goat skin stew, where it adds a gelatinous texture and richness to the dish.

Head

The head of the goat can be used to create goat head soup or goat head curry. The head is simmered with spices and vegetables to make a flavourful broth, and the tender parts of the head, like cheeks, are often used in the dish. The head can also be braised and used in braised goat heads or similar dishes.

Nepal is in the midst of Dashain celebrations. People working or studying away from home are returning to their families, gatherings have begun, and many are either traveling or preparing to travel. Meat is one of the most consumed foods during Dashain. Except for vegetarians, most households enjoy meat at nearly every meal of the festival.

Many families slaughter animals at home to store large quantities of meat. With such abundance, the risk of spoilage increases if meat is not properly handled and stored, making it potentially toxic and harmful to health.

Unsafe slaughtering practices, poor hygiene, and improper or insufficient storage methods create breeding grounds for harmful bacteria, which may lead to foodborne illnesses, some of them severe.

Food poisoning from contaminated meat is mainly caused by bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Campylobacter. Symptoms can range from mild to serious.

Common symptoms:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Stomach pain
• Fever

Children, the elderly, and people with weak immune systems are at greater risk of serious complications.

Safe slaughtering practices

For many, Dashain tradition involves slaughtering goats or other animals at home. However, if not done hygienically, it can become a major source of infection.

• The slaughter site should be clean and away from household waste or drainage.
• The animal should be healthy and inspected before slaughter.
• Adequate clean water must be available for washing hands, tools, and meat. Tools should be thoroughly cleaned with soap and hot water before and after use.
• The person handling slaughter must maintain proper hygiene. Meat can easily be contaminated by an unclean handler.
• Anyone with contagious illnesses (like colds, fever, or skin infections) should not take part.
• Internal organs must be carefully removed to avoid rupturing intestines, which can spread fecal matter and bacteria to the meat.
• After preparation, meat should be cooled quickly to below 4°C, using refrigerators or clean ice, to prevent bacterial growth.

Kitchen safety

Once meat enters the kitchen, strict hygiene is essential.

• Keep raw meat separate from vegetables and ready-to-eat foods. Use separate cutting boards, knives, and utensils.
• Always wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling raw meat.

Cooking meat properly

Cooking kills most harmful bacteria. Meat should be cooked until the pink color disappears.

• For large cuts, the minimum recommended internal temperature is 62.8°C, best measured with a food thermometer.

Storage methods: Modern and traditional

1. Refrigeration/Freezing:
   Store fresh meat at or below 4°C and consume within a few days. For longer storage, freeze in airtight packaging. Ensure the refrigerator is clean to avoid contamination.
2. Confit (Preserving in Fat):
   Meat, especially goat, pork, or duck, is slow-cooked and submerged in its own fat. The fat acts as a protective seal. This method does not require refrigeration.
3. Salting:
   Raw meat is heavily salted and either hung in a dry, cool place or refrigerated at 4°C. Before use, excess salt must be washed off.
4. Sukuti (Dry Meat):
   A traditional Nepali method. Meat is cut into strips and hung to dry, often above a hearth. Once fully dried, it can be stored for long periods without spoiling.
5. Pakku:
   A traditional Nepali dish made from goat or buffalo meat. The meat is marinated with spices and slow-cooked without water, using its own fat and juices. The result is tender, dark-colored meat that resists spoilage. It can be stored at room temperature for some time, or longer in a refrigerator.

Moderation is key

Overeating oily and spicy meat dishes can cause digestive problems. Meals should be balanced with fresh vegetables, salads, and fruits.

Stay hydrated

Drink plenty of clean water throughout the day to aid digestion.

Not all the information we receive is accurate. Rumours have long spread in society through word of mouth, but with the rise of social media, misleading and false information now spreads much faster and more widely. When people believe such misinformation, it shapes false perceptions and contributes to distortions in society.

This has become a global problem. In Nepal too, during the recent Gen Z protests, many incidents occurred as a result of people believing in misleading information. Even during and after the protests, false news continued to circulate.

For example, on platforms like TikTok, Facebook, and Discord, exaggerated or fabricated claims inflated the number of demonstrators, the scale of violence, and the figures of those injured. Such misinformation on social media and in the media affected millions of people directly and indirectly.

According to a World Health Organization review, during pandemics or crises, misinformation negatively influences health behaviours and significantly impacts mental health. In Nepal, false claims such as “India has sent troops to Nepal” during the Gen Z movement spread fear and panic among ordinary people.

Psychiatrists warn that such misleading or exaggerated information causes immediate stress and can lead to long-term mental health problems. It deeply affects the human psyche, especially among young people.

Immediate impacts: Stress and trauma

Psychologist Binod Dhakal says misinformation and graphic content circulating during protests cause psychological trauma. “When misleading and exaggerated information spreads on social media, with violent images, people’s distress, or children injured by bullets, it pushes individuals into trauma,” he explained. “This affects daily life. People can’t sleep, or if they do, they relive the events in their dreams.”

He adds that such trauma leads to loss of appetite, lack of motivation, and overthinking. Misinformation further alters people’s ways of thinking.

For example, during the second day of the protests, a rumour spread that the bodies of 32 missing students had been discovered inside Parliament. Many believed it for several hours, which fueled anger and agitation among protesters and caused additional psychological distress to others.

Psychiatrist Anmol Karki notes that misinformation reduces morale, increases anxiety, and generates fear and despair. “People struggle with sleeplessness and loss of appetite,” he said. “Even a week after the protests, videos of bleeding victims still circulated on social media, repeatedly triggering psychological impacts.”

Studies support these observations. Research published in the National Library of Medicine shows that misinformation raises anxiety and psychological stress. According to Karki, repeated exposure to violent or exaggerated news on television or social media can cause “secondary trauma,” where individuals are affected even without being directly involved. During the Gen Z protests, he said, false news created fear among parents and children, disrupting their daily lives.

Long-term effects: PTSD, depression, and loss of resilience

Continuous exposure to misleading content turns short-term stress into long-term problems. Dhakal explains that repeatedly viewing such content weakens resilience the ability to return to normal. Over time, this can develop into post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, or anxiety. Protesters may experience flashbacks, nightmares, or constant fear.

Karki adds that repeated exposure heightens worry about the future, reduces confidence, and disrupts daily activities. Research also shows that media exposure during crises doubles or even triples the risk of PTSD. Some children after the Gen Z movement reportedly developed symptoms such as refusing food, screaming, or being unable to sleep adding to parental stress.

A Statistics Canada study has also confirmed that misinformation negatively affects public mental health.

How to avoid the impact of misinformation

Curiosity about political and social change is natural, but when curiosity goes unsatisfied, restlessness grows. Dhakal advises relying on official media and government statements to avoid misinformation. “Because social media content can be exaggerated or false, people should check sources like the Nepal Police’s official Facebook page or ministry websites,” he said.

He suggests self-care as well: daily exercise, breathing practices, and conversations with family and friends can help release emotions and protect against PTSD. People should remain cautious of sensationalised content and seek more detailed verification before believing or sharing it.

Karki recommends relying only on official news portals. “When reading a claim, always check the source who said it and where it came from,” he said. “If the source is missing or unclear, it should not be trusted.”

He also advises limiting exposure to repeated content and consulting a psychologist or psychiatrist if stress, sleeplessness, or other issues persist. Importantly, viral posts on social media should not be shared without verification, and the authenticity of photos, videos, or screenshots should be checked before circulating them.

Neither billions of rupees, nor advanced technology, nor heavy foreign engineering assistance, nor modern vehicles and machines for transporting construction materials were available. Yet, the Rana rulers of the time built palaces and mansions that remain celebrated worldwide for their art and architecture, crafted with Nepali skill and limited resources.

Nepali artisans used their mastery and local materials to create these grand buildings. The palaces incorporated European design, influenced by the growing British presence in Nepal after the Sugauli Treaty. The Ranas developed special trust and cooperation with the British through mutual diplomacy, friendship, and the dispatch of Gurkha soldiers to serve the British Crown. Inspired by this influence, they embraced European-style architecture in their palaces and mansions.

Today, many of these structures function as government offices, museums, or tourist sites, preserving their historical importance. Sadly, several of these buildings have suffered from natural disasters, political movements, and fires. Despite the damage, their historical significance endures.

The 1934 and 2015 earthquakes, the 1973 fire, and most recently, the fires during the Zen G movement on September 8 and September 9 caused significant harm to some of them.

1. Singha Durbar

Located in Kathmandu, Singha Durbar was built in 1908 by Prime Minister Chandra Shumsher Jung Bahadur Rana. The design, inspired by European palaces, was created by Kumar Narsingh Rana and Kishor Narsingh Rana. Two lion statues at the entrance gave the palace its name. The architecture reflects Palladian, Corinthian, Neoclassical, and Baroque styles, making it majestic and elegant.

As Chandra Shumsher was fond of hunting and art, the walls were decorated with hunting scenes and European-style paintings. The palace originally featured eight courtyards and 1,700 rooms, with marble floors, intricately painted ceilings, silver furniture, and crystal chandeliers. Though partially destroyed in the 1973 fire, it was rebuilt. Recently, it suffered another fire during the Gen Z Movement.

2. Sheetal Niwas

Situated in Maharajgunj, Kathmandu, Sheetal Niwas was built in 1923 (1980 BS) by Chandra Shumsher for his eldest queen Lokbhakta Laxmi Devi’s younger son, Krishna Shumsher. The palace follows a neoclassical style, with French windows and Greek columns.

Neoclassicism, modeled after ancient Greek and Roman structures, is evident in the design by Kumar Narsingh and Kishor Narsingh. The exterior displays grandeur through symmetrical layouts, large gardens, and decorative plasterwork. Locally crafted woodwork is also integrated into doors and ceilings, blending Nepali artistry with European elegance.

Damaged in the 1934 earthquake, it was later restored. Today, it serves as the Office of the President. However, it too was damaged by fire during the Gen Z Movement.

3. Harihar Bhawan

Located in Lalitpur, Harihar Bhawan was commissioned by Chandra Shumsher in the 1910s for his son Shankar Shumsher. Also designed by Kumar Narsingh and Kishor Narsingh, the palace blends Neoclassical and Baroque styles. Large halls, tall columns, arched facades, and ornate Baroque details make it distinct. While the white plaster exterior reflects European taste, carved Nepali wooden windows preserved local tradition.

Shankar Shumsher lived there until 1950, but the government acquired it in 1952. Today, it houses the Department of Agriculture, the National Library, and the Human Rights Commission.

4. Jawalakhel Durbar

Constructed in 1897 by Bir Shumsher Rana for his son Juddha Shumsher and mother Juhar Kumari, Jawalakhel Durbar stands in the Jawalakhel area of Kathmandu. Designed by Jogbir Sthapit, it combines Neoclassical, Baroque, and Mughal influences.

Its grand courtyard, landscaped gardens, and balanced layout give it both elegance and harmony. While European styles dominate the decor, local materials and Nepali craftsmanship are evident in the woodwork and carvings. Partially damaged in the 1934 earthquake, it has been used since 1982 as the Nepal Administrative Staff College.

5. Babar Mahal

Built in 1910 (1970 BS) by Chandra Shumsher as a gift for his son Babar Shumsher, Babar Mahal sprawls across seven hectares on the northern banks of the Bagmati River in Kathmandu. Its design, inspired by London’s Buckingham Palace, blends Neoclassical and Italianate styles.

The palace featured vast courtyards, symmetrical layouts, French windows, Greek columns, and ornate plasterwork. Interiors included carved wooden decorations, golden paint, marble flooring, crystal chandeliers, and handmade carpets. Although damaged in the 1934 earthquake, Babar Shumsher’s grandson Jitu Rana later reconstructed part of it as “Babar Mahal Revisited,” a restaurant and shopping complex. Today, the Department of Roads operates from the premises.

6. Thapathali Durbar

Thapathali Durbar, constructed in 1854 by Jung Bahadur Rana, was among the first Nepali palaces to embrace Western architectural elements. Designed by Ranasur Bista, it combines Neoclassical style with local craftsmanship. Whitewashed walls, four courtyards, tall columns, French windows, and balconies showcase European influence, while intricate Nepali wood carvings maintain originality.

It is considered the first palace in Nepal to introduce the Western concept of roundtable conference halls, making it both a symbol of grandeur and modernity.

7. Narayanhiti Durbar

The original Narayanhiti Palace was built in the 1850s by Jung Bahadur Rana for his brother Ranodip Singh Kunwar Rana. Like other Rana-era structures, it reflected European Neoclassical design, with vast courtyards, tall columns, and detailed wood carvings.

Later, through marriage ties between the Rana and Shah families, it became the royal residence of the Shah kings. Although the 1934 earthquake caused damage, it was rebuilt. King Mahendra later demolished the old Rana palace and built a new Narayanhiti Palace, which now functions as a museum.

8. Keshar Mahal

Keshar Mahal, built under the orders of Bir Shumsher Rana and executed by his nephew Jit Shumsher, features a unique blend of European artistry and local design. The palace is decorated with lion crowns, circular motifs, and female figures. Its central top structure features three eye-shaped designs, while decorative vases and grills enhance its beauty.

Field Marshal Keshar Shumsher also created the famous “Garden of Dreams,” designed in Edwardian style after he was inspired by King Edward VII’s gardens in Britain during his visit in 1920. When Chandra Shumsher refused his request to replicate such a garden, Keshar Shumsher reportedly built it using one lakh rupees he had won from Chandra Shumsher in a game of cards during Tihar.

In recent times, people have increasingly shown a reluctance to compromise on taste. Street stalls offering a variety of fried snacks often make it hard to resist. At home, when cravings for spicy, tangy, or savory food arise, choices usually lean towards fried items like samosas, pakoras, chips, and French fries.

These fried foods have become an integral part of daily life. However, scientific studies provide ample evidence of their harmful effects on health. For example, fried foods are high in trans fats, saturated fats, and calories, which increase the risk of obesity, heart disease, and diabetes.

If we completely eliminate such foods from our diet, the body undergoes positive changes that improve both physical and mental health while also keeping the skin healthy.

1. Helps reduce excess weight
Fried foods contain excessive amounts of fat, which add unnecessary calories and lead to weight gain. They are packed with high calories and trans fats, increasing the risk of obesity. Cutting down on fried foods lowers calorie intake, prompting the body to use stored fat for energy. This also reduces other obesity-related problems such as joint pain and fatigue.

2. Lowers the risk of heart disease
Fried foods are rich in trans fats and saturated fats that raise bad cholesterol and reduce good cholesterol. This increases the risk of high blood pressure, obesity, and heart disease. Eliminating fried foods improves heart health and lowers the risk of heart attack, stroke, and heart failure.

3. Relief from oxidative stress
Fried foods accumulate unhealthy fats and oxidative compounds in the body, which damage cells and increase stress. This raises the risk of diabetes, cancer, and arthritis. They also contribute to obesity, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and gut issues. Quitting fried foods enhances the repair of damaged cells and supports overall recovery.

4. Improves digestive health
Fried foods are hard to digest and can cause acidity, constipation, bloating, and gut problems. According to the Cleveland Clinic, they worsen reflux and inflammation. They can also trigger discomfort in people with irritable bowel syndrome or acid reflux. Avoiding such foods allows the digestive system to function better, improves nutrient absorption, and balances gut bacteria leading to overall better health and even improved mood when fast foods are avoided.

5. Healthier, glowing skin
Excess fried food consumption often leads to acne, rashes, and oily skin. It also accelerates premature aging. Quitting fried foods restores the skin’s natural glow and slows down aging signs, boosting self-confidence.

6. Reduces diabetes risk and improves lipid profile
Fried foods are high in unsaturated and trans fats, which negatively affect blood lipid levels and increase the risk of diabetes. They also heighten the chances of heart disease, stroke, and premature death. Reducing fried food intake improves lipid profiles, helps control blood sugar levels, and lowers the risk of diabetes. Regular consumption fuels chronic illnesses, but avoiding them reduces the risks of heart disease and diabetes.

A few months ago, Luna Luitel returned from Australia, carrying the dream of becoming Miss Nepal! Perhaps destiny had already written her fate to become Miss Nepal World. On August 30 (Saturday) she was crowned as Miss Nepal World 2025.

When her name was announced as the new Miss Nepal on Saturday night in the Sunrise Convention Center, Godavari,  the applause went on for a long time. Along with her, the winners of Miss Nepal Earth, International, and Cosmo were also declared.

First Gen-Z Miss Nepal

For the first time, the country had four Gen-Z Miss Nepals.

Luna, 26, is tech-savvy, enjoys freedom, and likes to write the script of her own dreams.

In her first interview after winning the Miss Nepal crown, Luitel spoke with SajhaKatha about her journey in the Miss Nepal competition, her nursing studies at the University of Sydney, Australia, and her thoughts on how the youth should intervene in policymaking.

Luitel still can’t believe she bagged the crown of Miss Nepal World.

“When my name was announced, I went into a surreal life. Even now, I feel like I am living between reality and dreams,” she says

She considers herself grounded.

“The Luna I was yesterday is the same Luna I am today, even after wearing the crown. The only difference is that now I carry responsibility,” she says.

Luitel is a devotee of Lord Krishna. She has memorized verses of the Bhagavad Gita. Raised in a spiritual family, she recalled Krishna’s teaching: “Do your duty without attachment to the results.”

Remembering lord Krishna’s lesson she says that her task is to do good deeds, without caring about the results.  To her, the Miss Nepal crown is not just an object but a symbol of social responsibility.

“Wearing this crown, I am ready to face the challenges ahead,” she said.

Shaping policy futures

She believes the value of the crown is heavier than its physical weight.

Although young, she speaks with maturity. She describes herself as “hardworking, empathetic, and flexible.”

Expressing her wish to work in policymaking in the future, Luitel says, “Policy influences the entire system and the lives of people in the country. That is why I want to engage in this field.”

She also believes her nursing studies helped her in the Miss Nepal competition. “While working, I treated patients from different backgrounds. Even when I didn’t understand their language, I could understand their emotions. Nursing has taught me to empathize, which helped me a lot in Miss Nepal too,” she says.

Her philosophy is ‘Learn, Earn, Return.’ She advises those who want to study abroad to remember this. Having traveled to nine countries, she says she often felt insulted and devalued at immigration counters when showing her Nepali passport.

That experience gave birth to her ‘Learn, Earn, Return’ philosophy. She considers the Nepali passport her greatest asset. “It may sound nationalistic at first, but lived experience has made me mature in this belief,” she says.

Her heart felt heavy while showing the Nepali passport.

“No matter how much money is in my account, if my country’s passport is weak, it is a problem,” she says.

Every time she goes through immigration, she feels stressed because of the weak status of her country’s passport.

She adds, “We often take foreign citizenship after going abroad. But for me, my greatest asset is my Nepali passport.”

“Equality changes lives”

Luitel has lived in Australia for nine years and holds permanent residency. She could easily get citizenship, but she does not want to give up her Nepali identity.

“I am a Nepali citizen. I will no longer live in Australia. My asset, my identity, is the Nepali passport. I cannot live by losing my Nepali identity,” she says.

When asked what social and health issues she hopes to raise through the Miss Nepal platform, Luitel says she wants to end gender discrimination in education.

“Men and women are born equal, but they have not been given equal opportunities. For women, education is limited, and they are confined to household work. There is a big difference between boarding and public schools. If it’s a son, he is sent to boarding school; if it’s a daughter, she is sent to government school,” she says. “This inequality must end. If such inequality ends, everyone can stand on their own.”

She adds that Gen-Z must also take actions that influence other people’s lives.

“I cannot speak for all Gen-Z, but I believe we are capable of living independently. Still, we must do things that impact others’ lives,” she says.

Luitel’s hobbies include scuba diving, playing flute, and swimming, which she says help keep her grounded.

“When you go scuba diving, you see a whole different world underwater where humans and turtles swim together. It makes you feel down-to-earth,” she says.

In her free time, while driving or doing household chores, she always listens to podcasts. She frequently listens to Nikhil Kamath.

Her advice to all Nepali girls is: “Believe in yourself. There are many multidimensional problems in Nepal and the world, and we must come together to solve them.”

She envisions herself in policymaking within the next five years.

In the grand finale of Miss Nepal 2025, the judges had asked: If you had to change one aspect of beauty pageants, what would it be? We also asked Luna the same question. Repeating her final answer, she says: “We have been looking at beauty pageants only from the lens of physical beauty. But it is also about commitment. Like my own commitment, Learn, Earn, Return. Go abroad, understand the system, and come back. That is how we can make Nepal great.”

If your day often begins with bloating, acidity, or sluggish digestion, your eating habits may be to blame. Unhealthy food patterns can slow down the digestive system, leading to constipation, discomfort, and indigestion. These issues get worse in summer, when heat naturally slows digestion, leaving many people feeling heavy and uneasy throughout the day.

A simple remedy lies in your kitchen. Drinking warm water mixed with certain natural ingredients first thing in the morning can gently cleanse the stomach, improve digestion, and leave you feeling lighter and more energised.

Here are five such options you can try as suggested by Ayurvedic Dr Shanti Timilsina also a pychologist:

1. Ghee in warm water

A teaspoon of ghee stirred into warm water can do wonders for your digestive health. Ghee helps soften stools, relieve constipation, and improve intestinal function. Rich in butyric acid, it supports healthy digestion and provides sustained energy. However, those prone to indigestion should avoid this morning drink.

2. Fennel in warm water

Fennel seeds are naturally cooling, making them an excellent choice for summer. In Ayurveda, fennel is known to reduce gas and acidity while supporting smooth digestion. Drinking fennel-infused warm water in the morning can help ease bloating, constipation, and indigestion, while keeping your digestive system balanced.

3. Cumin in warm water

Cumin seeds in warm water act as a gentle cleanser for the stomach. They help relieve acidity, bloating, and constipation, while also stimulating appetite and aiding food absorption. Since cumin has a warming effect on the body, people with excess body heat or a pitta constitution should consume it sparingly.

4. Fenugreek seeds in warm water

Soaked fenugreek seeds are rich in fiber and antioxidants, making them a natural detoxifier. Leave a spoonful of fenugreek seeds in water overnight and drink it with lukewarm water in the morning. This remedy is particularly effective against gas, acidity, and constipation, while also supporting overall gut health.

5. Chia seeds in warm water

Chia seeds are packed with fiber and expand when soaked, providing a soothing effect on the digestive system. Drinking chia seed water in the morning helps regulate blood sugar, reduce cholesterol, and improve bowel health. It also keeps you feeling full for longer, making it an excellent choice for those trying to manage weight.

Your digestive health sets the tone for your entire day. By starting your morning with any of these simple warm water infusions, you can keep your stomach clean, support healthy digestion, and feel more energetic throughout the day naturally and without side effects.