Kathmandu: Australian Ambassador to Nepal Simon Ernst and his wife Simone Murphy recently joined locals in celebrating Nepal's traditional rice planting festival, Ropain, highlighting the strong cultural ties between Australia and Nepal.
Sharing the experience on social media, Ambassador Ernst described the event as "a bit of hard, muddy work" that was made memorable by warm hospitality, delicious Newari cuisine and drinks, and wonderful company. He expressed his gratitude by saying, "Dhanyabad!"
The annual Ropain festival marks the beginning of Nepal's rice planting season and is celebrated across the country with farmers and communities gathering in paddy fields to plant rice while singing traditional songs and enjoying local delicacies.
Ambassador Ernst also extended his best wishes to Nepali farmers, saying he hopes they enjoy a productive and bountiful harvest season.
The participation of the Australian envoy in one of Nepal's most cherished agricultural traditions reflects the close friendship between the two countries and appreciation for Nepal's rich cultural heritage.
