Becoming Australian citizens

On Australia Day 2015 about twenty members of the extended Thapa family, Nepali Bhutanese former refugees, will become Australian citizens at the Derwent Entertainment Centre in Glenorchy.
Four generations of this family, which settled in Glenorchy over four years ago, will receive a return for their hard work in; learning English, studying what it means to be an Australian citizen, training, finding jobs, making friends, setting up homes and adjusting to life in Tasmania.

To mark the occasion a traditional dance program has been arranged and will be performed by; Narbada Thapa, Susmita Khadal and Nar Maya Thapa.

Our young dancers, wearing Nepali costume express their love and devotion towards the country where they were born and grew up. Dances are very happy, harmonious and show the prosperity within the natural beauty of the country, welcoming everyone.

The song, “Pool Manjhari”, in the first dance, describes Nepali customs, the nation and its main attractions, naturally very beautiful, with snow covered mountains as the backdrop. Fast running rivers arise from the heart of the great Himalayas. The song features flora, such as basil, which has sacred importance in Hindu culture.

The main theme of the song is that the Bhutanese Nepali people have a very strong sense of national identity, humanity, lovable heart, affection and pride. The country is blessed and sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists. The spectacular snow mountains draw tourists and pilgrims, showcasing the country and its people to the world.

The second dance with a song called, “Mai Ramri Huna”, will be performed by Narbada Thapa.

This song describes the Nepali costume and how beautiful she looks in that costume. The dancer will convey to the audience that the only way of becoming beautiful is to be made up according to Nepali custom.

Despite living in such a beautiful country we had to leave it and now we are adopting Australia as our new land. At this moment, we are experiencing a mixture of feelings such as; happiness, sorrow, joy and regret. We are also thrilled to become citizens of this country. Even as we delight in the moment, we may burst into tears when the memories of our country and childhood come into our minds.

Venue: Derwent Entertainment Centre, Glenorchy, Tasmania 10.30am January 26th 2015
Yabbo Thompson