34th Anniversary of FONNJ’s ASHA PROJECT
By: Jaysna Tuladhar, FONNJ’s Youth Leadership Team Member
“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” — Helen Keller
Friends of Nepal-NJ’s 34 anniversary and annual MoMo & Music event was a grand success. Thanks to our supporters, volunteers and sponsors. There are two things every Nepali person loves – great food and entertainment; and that’s exactly what the annual Momo and Music party hosted by Friends of Nepal New Jersey (FONNJ) delivered. It was held on Saturday, March 16th in New Beginnings Church in Edison, NJ.
The event brought together the Nepalese community to experience the flavors of Nepal and incredible live music performances. As soon as guests entered, they were greeted with Samay Baji. It included ChoyLaa, Aloo Achaar, Bhuti, and Badam which were lovingly prepared by volunteer families within the community. Once the performance began, it was time for the momos! They were made by volunteers and freshly steamed at the event. Batch after batch, guests lined up to cash in their tickets for these delectable momos.
While guests enjoyed momo, performers from young to experienced performed a vast variety of songs. From 11-year-old Prapti Neupane’s rendition of “Rolling in the Deep”, to the local favorite Mary Dhakwa, to the Angel Band’s captivating performances of popular Nepali songs, every performer was a hit with the crowd! The event was MC’d by FONNJ president, Roshan Karmacharya and even included a surprise performance by Founding president, Dr. Tulsi R. Maharjan.
Finally, the iconic Nima Rumba ended the night with his show-stopping performance. People got up, dancing and singing along to his songs. You could feel the energy and the sense of community flowing through the room.
This event not only relished delicious food and captivating music, but also served a greater purpose within the Nepali community. During the event, individuals volunteered to sponsor children from various Nepali villages in need of education. Also, awareness were raised about 34 years of Humanitarian mission in Nepal which strives to provide a brighter future for underprivileged families in Nepal. We would like to thank all those individuals who have joined FON-NJ’s Legacy Circle being sponsor of children in Nepal and for being valuable partners in this crusade. Together, we will be able to make a lasting difference in the lives of children in Nepal and at the same time gain a piece of mind knowing that we are helping to make a difference in somebody’s life.
Of course, this amazing event wouldn’t be possible without the sponsors – Team McLain, Momo Hut, Airzone Travel, Spice House, Yam Adhikari, and Dil Shrestha.
The “Momo and Music” event was a clear testament to FONNJ’s commitment to promoting cultural awareness and unity. Through events like this, FONNJ continues to bring Nepali communities in NJ and surrounding states together, while also making a positive impact on the people of Nepal. Our gratitude and thanks to Suraj Bahadur Gurung of the KS Photography for those wonderful pictures and all those volunteers and executive members.
The Asha Project 