(NB: This account is written by my wife, Ruth)

We were both excited and filled with anticipation as we clambered into the small Suzuki passenger van, which Mr Shanker had organised for us. On top, its roof rack was piled high with bundles containing the warmest winter blankets sourced from Kathmandu, ready to be shared amongst some of the poorest communities around Lumbini.

Kindly, Mr Shanker, in collaboration with others, had diligently worked to identify those recipients most in need of some support.

Today we were driving to Bharthapur, a village located a few miles outside of Lumbini. This village, which is close to the Danau River and the site of a magnificent suspension bridge, is prone to flooding, and we were advised that aid agencies never travel so far to support it. Therefore, it is recognised as one of the poorest communities in the Lumbini Cultural Municipality. It is located in Ward Number 2.

We were treated to a wonderful drive through flat Terai open countryside, past acres of green paddy fields which were shortly due to be harvested. Passing small homesteads along the way, we eventually reached the small village of Bharthapur.

Already waiting for us, seated in front of their beautiful Durga temple, were locals both from Bharthapur and the nearby village of Lamtihawa, who were also receiving blankets today. The hospitality we received was so kind. We were offered a plastic chair to sit on, in the shade, and given a welcome bottle of water. As the ceremonies commenced, we were bestowed with beautiful garlands of flowers and presented with a traditional Nepali khata, or welcome scarf.

After Mr Shanker had introduced us, I made the following speech on behalf of us both:

“My husband Andy and I live in England. Our country has a very strong relationship, over many years, with Nepal.

My father was a member of the 4th Gurkha Rifles Regiment, stationed in India at the time of Partition.

Andy has visited Nepal over many years. In 2021, he met our dear friend Mr Shanker for the first time. In 2023, I visited Nepal for the first time. The kindness we have received in Nepal has been humbling.

The purpose of our visit is Buddhism. Each morning at 5 a.m., we visit the Maya Devi temple in Lumbini.

In both Hinduism and Buddhism, giving is a core moral duty. So it is our pleasure to be able to give these blankets to you today.

Andy has stayed in Lumbini during the winter months and knows how cold the nights and days are. We hope that these blankets will keep you warm this winter.

We would like to thank Mr Shanker and everyone who has helped to make this possible, and also say a sincere thank you to all those kind people in England who have contributed.

As we give and receive, we are all connected, and it is with great joy that we share this moment with you today.”

Next, the names of those nominated villagers from Bharthapur were called out. Many were too old and infirm to attend in person, but it was heartwarming to meet their younger relatives who had come to represent them and carry their heavy blanket home.

Then the process was repeated for recipients of Lamtihawa and photographs were taken.

In total, 35 blankets were given out.

We were overwhelmed by the gratitude that we received from everyone.

Afterwards, sitting quietly and processing our emotions and the events of the day, we both concluded that we were so blessed to have found ourselves in such an amazing position.

Further Information

• Blankets for Lumbini

Donations

Donations for Blankets for Lumbini 2027 are welcome. As I will cover distribution costs, 100% of all donations received will be spent on blankets.