Why Nepal matters and why you should care?

On April 25th at 11:56 AM local time, a powerful 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck Nepal claiming thousands of lives, destroying centuries old monuments and collapsing people’s homes. As a person that grew up in Nepal, I remember the tales of the infamous 1934 earthquake and how that created bitter impressions, horror stories for the generations to come. Another one was inevitable and many knew it was coming. Humans tend to procrastinate preparation for such natural disaster until it hits them. It is obvious we prioritize dealing with our daily lives over an unpredictable future event.

As of this writing the total death toll had reached over 5,500 with another thousands expected in rural parts of Nepal. Never in my lifetime have I seen such a collaboration and overwhelming support from the international community to embrace the sorrows of Nepali people, putting humanity and kindness first. There are several reasons why Nepal matters to them and why we all should care. The Nepalese are known as the bravest of the brave, its Gurkha soldiers have served the greatness and goodness of humanity for centuries. Known for their selfless giving and fearless bravery, they represent the finest of human kind that have always given to others and have asked nothing in return. It is now helplessly pleading the world to respond and give back benevolently to cope with the disaster.

A country known for Mt. Everest and Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, has been the center for peace, resiliency and religious harmony. Kathmandu, itself has been described as living museum filled with Hindu temples and Buddhist pagodas, people offering prayers side by side. It is truly a remarkable and unique place that creates a lasting impression for all. In 1975, then King Birendra put forward a proposal to declare Nepal as Zone of Peace (ZoP), which was endorsed by over 130 nations. It is a reflection to the world on how differences can persist and tolerance should be practiced with peace, love and harmony. The recent earthquake collapsed several of its key historical monuments and temples, which probably cannot be rebuilt without the support of the international community. The Nepalese government lacks the leadership and financial capabilities to even support the on-going rescue mission. It is up to us to take the initiative and support the efforts on the ground.

I request the world community to support and do the right thing by helping those in need. There is an urgent need for food, tent, water and other essential medical supplies. Many of my friends and colleagues have reached out wanting to help and the best way for all of us to contribute is to donate through the organizations that are actively working on the ground. Many Nepalese volunteers, citizens and international volunteers are urgently looking for help and the least we can do is to contribute through the charities of our choice. Paypal has streamlined the process to donate any amount you choose to one of 11 charitable organizations. 100% of your donation reaches the nonprofit.

Alternatively, I also recommend considering my High School Alumni organization (SEBS), an IRS-registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that have people actively working on the ground and needs your immediate support.