In a quiet, serene space within the Nepali Embassy in Beijing, the resonant hum of singing bowls recently replaced the usual diplomatic chatter. The event, titled “Practicing Meditation: Connecting Soul and Body,” was held to mark the inaugural observance of International Meditation Day, officially declared by the UN General Assembly for December 21.
The programme blended ancient tradition with modern wellness tourism advocacy, drawing a direct line from the historical exchanges of monks across the Himalayas to today’s holistic retreats.
Acting Ambassador Roshan Khanal, in her welcome remarks, framed the practice within a centuries-old bilateral context. “This year marks the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nepal and China,” she noted, “but the relationship dates back to the early fifth century with the exchange of knowledge and learning by monks and scholars.”
Highlighting Nepal’s unique proposition as a spiritual destination, she detailed the offerings awaiting visitors: “There are hotels and resorts in and around Kathmandu, Ayurveda hospitals, yoga walking opportunities, and many places in Nepal for yoga and meditation to experience Ayurveda and spa treatments in a peaceful environment.” She emphasized that yoga in Nepal provides “a holistic environment full of modern approach and spirituality for well-being,” and extended a warm invitation to the attendees to visit and experience it firsthand.
The event transitioned from speech to practice under the guidance of Guru Amar (Yogi Ramesh Sitaula), who traveled from Nepal specifically for the event. He led approximately 70 Chinese and Nepali participants, including representatives from various cultural and media organizations, through immersive sessions of meditation, yoga, and singing bowl therapy. The sound healing session, described as healing for the practitioners, offered a tangible experience of the wellness practices Nepal promotes.
Adding a layer of cultural diplomacy, Economic Minister Parbati Aryal delivered a presentation on “Spiritual Connection to Nepal: Mansarovar to Lumbini,” tracing a spiritual geography that links Tibetan pilgrimage sites to the birthplace of Buddha in Nepal’s plains.
The embassy also used the platform to announce an upcoming “Nepali Cultural Week” scheduled for early January in Beijing, signaling a continued push to strengthen people-to-people ties.
