Christopher Sharma

The call to "build bridges" should inspire the writing of the first Democratic Charter of the country. Even former Maoists praise Pope Francis: "Every religion, ethnicity, practice, culture, tradition and social difference must be guaranteed equal and fair treatment."

Kathmandu is preparing to host the 18th Meeting of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation. Regional heads of state and government confirmed their presence, but their schedules focus on visiting religious holy sites. Experts are worried that this will devalue the summit.

In response to pressure from the Chinese government, Kathmandu has decided to no longer provide the necessary documents to Tibetan refugees to reach India, the residence of the Dalai Lama and his government-in-exile. The outrage of civil society: "You have sold out to Beijing."

The World Mission, a Protestant Christian organization, is engaged in recent weeks in an extensive tour of the country in order to distribute "to those who are interested," a digitally recorded copy of the sacred book. "We reach out to those who ask - says the president - and then they are the ones who spread the Gospel message to family and friends".

Sexual discrimination within the Islamic community is a big problem in the country. Human rights activists denounce: "This leads to a lack of education and poverty." The first signs of rebellion on the occasion of Friday prayers: dozens of women leave home and go to the mosque.

The Indian cyclone Hudhud unleashed a blizzard on the mountain. Among the victims were 12 foreigners and 16 Nepalis, many of whom sherpa. Local officials denounce: "Security issues with climbers, who do not use on authorized travel agencies."

Economists and experts point out the eight days off for Hindu festivals are too many. The country is still developing and cannot afford to have shops and businesses close down. A Protestant clergyman proposes a single day of celebration for each religion, including Christianity and Buddhism.

Christians, newly converted Catholics, Buddhists and Muslims have participated in the most important Hindu festival in the country, dedicated to the goddess Durga. In Nepal mixed families are becoming more numerous and often honor together the various religious celebrations. A Hindu speaks of his newly converted son: "We have not interfered with his faith, we are happy he is Catholic."

Dashain, Nepal's longest and most important Hindu festival, begins. It marks the birth of the goddess Durga and her victory over an evil demon. To help the deity, tens of thousands of animals are slaughtered to provide fresh sacrificial blood. However, as important as it is, "we can begin to rethink this tradition," a Hindu leader says.

For ten years, Nanda Prasad Adhikari fought to bring to justice the Maoists who abducted and tortured his son. After 11 months on a hunger strike, he died in a hospital bed. His wife, who is also on hunger strike, remains in "critical but stable" conditions.

Anju Panta is one of the biggest stars in the country. After changing religion, she refused to perform at a Hindu festival: "My faith does not allow me to worship gods through song". Following an avalanche of criticism from media and civil society, she responds: "I have nothing to say to those who are criticizing me. May be it’s God’s plan and now I’m under the grace of God".

Celebrating its Silver Jubilee, the Catholic organization emphasizes the value of a work that follows the teachings of the Church's social doctrine. For the apostolic vicar it is a time for "sanctification" and to rethink the "future endeavors". A job that has garnered the respect of authorities and citizens.