“Cultural Connection: Nepali Dhoon” - It’s All in the ‘Dhoon
“When they treasure themselves, they may also learn to value others.”
Dev Raj Rai, host and producer of ‘Cultural Connection: Nepali Dhoon’, a CIBS programme in Nepali and English
“We have such a huge musical tradition that’s been passed down to us through many generations,” says longtime teacher and radio broadcaster Dev Raj Rai, when asked about his motivation for creating ‘Cultural Connection: Nepali Dhoon’. “I hope the local Chinese people will find this interesting too.”
Defending the cause of a community
Dev has strong roots in Hong Kong where his grandfather and uncles served as Gurkha soldiers of the British Army. The tradition of service continues with Dev now striving to champion the cause of his Nepali community.
“It’s so painful when the media treats us like a disadvantaged group,” Dev said, “The ethnic minority community has played a vital role in making Hong Kong a world city. My grandfather, my uncles, all dropped their blood, sweat, and tears for this place. We, the Nepali people, have our hands in the building of the city’s airport, roads, and bridges. I want people to know that we’re building Hong Kong together. We share the same dreams.”
Fighting stereotypes is an ongoing battle and a sensitive topic that Dev won’t shy away from. He sees music and radio as tools to bridge the gap and tell the truth.
It’s all in the ‘dhoon’
Dev in studio with guests Hem Kunari (center) and Nirupam Shreesha (right)
‘Dhoon’ (which in Nepali means ‘tune’) refers to the traditional Nepali sounds that capture the emotions through life’s different phases: birth, coming-of-age, marriage, celebrations, struggles, death.
Every occasion has its own ‘dhoon’, and every tune contains a world of stories and beliefs. Moreover, each Nepali ethnic subgroup has its own music, and Dev wants to show the similarities and differences between all the groups.
“When people die, you can’t play this!” Dev chuckles as he brings out a small drum from his studio and starts hitting it to a joyous rhythm fit for parties and celebrations. “We, the Rai people, worship nature,” Dev explains “Our God is about nature. We pray before we harvest, so we have our own sounds to express this gratitude.”
Finding identity through music
Dev speaking to Nepali youngsters
“The young Nepali in Hong Kong are struggling with an identity crisis,” Dev explains. “They’re not getting enough resources to learn about their own culture. They’re also not getting enough support to fit in with the local Chinese.”
As father of a six-year-old son, Dev is concerned. His solution is to use music to help the next generation learn about their roots.
“When they treasure themselves, they may also learn to value others.”
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For Dev, having Nepali representation on a government-funded platform like CIBS is a kind of affirmation that cannot be downplayed.
“I don’t need to change people,” Dev says, “but if my programme resonates even with one person, then that’s a bridge.”
