Setting aside migration dreams for a musical journey

Nepal Now: On the Move

Talking to Prakash Gurung made me realize that not all migrant workers from Nepal are leaving the country out of necessity. When I interviewed him last year the 26-year-old told me about his failed migration attempts – as both a student and a migrant worker – but I got the sense that he had options in-country as well; he just preferred the idea of leaving. I think there are many people in similar circumstances — they could find a job here at home, but believe that abroad they might be able to save more money, live in better conditions, or have more promising future prospects, for themselves and/or their family.
One year later Prakash has shelved his migration plans. In their place he has chosen an unusual path—learning classical guitar. A guitar player since his teenage years, Prakash says that playing classical requires much more discipline than playing and singing rock songs, including hours of daily practice. He’s found a teacher to guide him on that journey.
As you’ll hear, Prakash is now talking about finding satisfaction and inner peace on his musical quest. This is a huge turnaround from the half-hearted pledges he was making when we talked in 2024, and a pleasant surprise to me.
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Music by audionautix.com.
Thank you to PEI in Bakhundole and Himal Media in Patan Dhoka for the use of their studios.

Nepal Now is produced and hosted by Marty Logan.

Chapters

1. Setting aside migration dreams for a musical journey (00:00:00)

2. A 'totally different mindset' (00:03:55)

3. It's the sound and the feeling (00:07:57)

4. Classical guitar can also be a career (00:14:35)

5. Prakash sees migration accelerating (00:19:18)