On the occasion of Asar 15, National Paddy Day and Curd-Rice Festival, a special event was successfully organized in Lele, Godawari by the world’s first agricultural reality game show “R: Revolutionary Agriculture War”. The event featured the special presence of Nepal’s legendary actor Rajesh Hamal.
Jointly organized by the Agriculture Division of Godawari Municipality and Muktinath Krishi Company Ltd., the program was attended by Muktinath’s Managing Director Bharat Raj Dhakal, Dr. Tashi Sherpa from ICIMOD, Mayor of Godawari Municipality Gajendra Maharjan, Chief Administrative Officer Man Bahadur Khadka, Ward No. 10 Chairman Shekhar Neupane, Executive Member Uma Mahat, and representatives from various organizations, journalists, intellectuals, social workers, and local residents.
The event showcased traditional Newa music with Dhime Baja, and cultural performances such as Asare songs and dances representing the essence of local agriculture and heritage.
Speaking at the event, Shailesh Kandel Kshetri, the creator and director of the reality show “R”, shared that the program aims to elevate the dignity of agriculture and make farmers celebrities. He explained that every year on Asar 15, the show celebrates National Paddy Day in different parts of the country, using entertainment to spread awareness about the importance of agriculture.
During his speech, superstar and main host of the show Rajesh Hamal expressed concern over how we are gradually forgetting our roots and the value of agriculture. He mentioned that youth migration has contributed to the country’s growing dependence on imported food. Hamal also actively participated in rice planting, tug-of-war, and other engaging activities to motivate attendees.
Managing Director Bharat Raj Dhakal of Muktinath Krishi Company emphasized that such programs are crucial in attracting youth to agriculture. He also spoke about transitioning from traditional farming to technology-driven agriculture, showcasing a demonstration of liquid fertilizer application via drone by the company’s technical team.
Mayor Gajendra Maharjan of Godawari Municipality mentioned that the municipality is prioritizing agriculture and livestock development and will intensify its efforts in the upcoming fiscal year.
Last year on Asar 15, applications for the “R” reality show were officially opened through a special program in Khokana, Lalitpur. A total of 1,682 applicants from all 77 districts of Nepal submitted entries. From this pool, the top 100 candidates participated in interviews, training, and outreach programs. From them, 12 top farmers and 12 top agri-technicians were selected, and six episodes of the show were filmed in Kattike, Shankharapur Municipality. The show is scheduled to broadcast this Bhadra on Himalaya Television and OSR Reality.