- Regina's Nepali community transformed a traditional Teej celebration into a fundraiser for flood-affected communities in Nepal.
- Participants and remote donors contributed generously while participating in cultural songs, dances, and traditional meals.
- The Nepali Society of Southern Saskatchewan will direct the proceeds to Nepal’s Prime Minister’s Trust Fund for relief efforts.
- The event showcased how cultural festivals can serve as powerful humanitarian platforms for the diaspora to support their homeland.
REGINA, Saskatchewan, Canada — A Teej celebration in Regina brought together tradition, culture and compassion as members of the Nepali community turned a cherished festival into an opportunity to support people affected by the devastating floods in Nepal.
Hosted by Sarita, a member of the Nepali Society of Southern Saskatchewan (NeSSoSS), at her residence in Regina, the gathering was initially planned to celebrate the rich cultural traditions of Teej. However, after news of the destruction caused by flooding in Nepal emerged, the organizer and participants decided to transform the celebration into an opportunity to raise funds for flood-affected communities.
The celebration reflected the belief that festivals are not only occasions to gather, sing, dance and celebrate our heritage, but can also provide an opportunity to come together for a greater and noble cause.
Dressed in traditional sarees, attendees participated enthusiastically in Teej songs and dances, enjoyed Nepali food and shared an evening of friendship and community spirit. Beyond their participation in the festivities, attendees also made generous contributions toward the flood relief effort.
The spirit of generosity extended even to those who could not attend the celebration in person. Several community members contributed electronically, demonstrating that distance did not prevent them from joining the collective effort to support Nepal during a time of need.
The event also showcased the strength of the Nepali community in Saskatchewan and its continuing connection to Nepal. While living thousands of kilometres away, community members demonstrated that their concern for their homeland remains strong and that cultural gatherings can become meaningful avenues for humanitarian support.
The funds raised through the celebration will be sent by the Nepali Society of Southern Saskatchewan (NeSSoSS) to the Prime Minister’s Trust Fund in Nepal to support flood relief efforts.
Sarita expressed her appreciation to everyone who helped make the event meaningful, not only through financial contributions but also through their time, participation and efforts in any way possible.
The Teej gathering ultimately became more than a festival. It was a reminder that when culture, community and compassion come together, celebration can become a force for positive change.
For the Nepali community in Regina, this year’s Teej was a celebration of tradition but, more importantly, a celebration of humanity, solidarity and the spirit of giving back to Nepal.
