Every month, Glocal Pvt. Ltd. organizes an empowering session known as Coca-Cola Presents Youth Dialogue. More than just a talk show, it is a platform of transformation where stories ignite motivation and experiences shape new perspectives. This month’s session was hosted at Campion College, Lalitpur, featuring a special guest: Mr. Ashesh Malla, Co-founder and Artistic Director of Sarwanam Theatre Group. A visionary in the world of Nepali theatre, Mr. Malla is a man of action, compassion, and creativity. His journey left every attendee with a heart full of energy, hope, and renewed inspiration. A Powerful Beginning: Questioning Our Education System Mr. Malla began his session with a heartfelt thank you to the organizers. He opened by addressing a striking truth:
“Our education system never teaches us about our own existence.”
He emphasized how essential it is to understand our roots our “zone” and surroundings where we grow and belong. He connected this thought with the history of Nepal, mentioning the campaign led by Prithvi Narayan Shah, who unified the divided states of the country. Ashesh Malla highlighted a profound truth from history:
“Only the names of the winners are written in books. So, be on the winning side in the game of life.”
Culture and Art: The Soul of Our Society
Despite centuries of change, our culture and art have remained strong. Festivals like Dashain and Tihar still bring joy to households across Nepal. However, Mr. Malla shared his personal favorite Gai Jatra, a festival filled with drama, performances, and social satire.
He recalled feeling left out during Gai Jatra because organizers never invited him to perform. But instead of backing away, he took the rejection as a challenge. He wrote and performed his own plays. That was the turning point people started noticing him.
A Dream Born in Dhankuta
Growing up in Dhankuta, Mr. Malla was deeply immersed in poetry and literature. Encouraged by others, he penned his first play titled “Tuwalo Le Dhakeko Bastī” (The Fog-Covered Settlement). The drama received massive appreciation and was performed for 6 to 7 consecutive days in Dhankuta. Fueled by the response, the team set their sights on Kathmandu. The journey was tough; they didn’t know where to stay or where to perform. But their spirit was unshaken.
Stepping into Kathmandu: A Bold Leap of Faith
Their determination brought them to Nepal Academy Hall, where they staged their play and even met the legendary Satya Mohan Joshi. With an agreement to split earnings 50/50, the play marked a new chapter for Mr. Malla. On that grand stage, he saw stage lights for the first time, felt the pressure, and yet stood strong even when he didn’t recognize the instruments or setup.
The First Audience and The Spark of Recognition
Among his first audience members was Balkrishna Sama, another legend of Nepali literature. The play ran for more than 25 successful days in Kathmandu, a huge achievement for a team that came from humble beginnings. From a boy who once questioned why he wasn’t chosen to perform, Ashesh Malla became a celebrated figure in Nepali theatre, driven by passion and persistence.
Message to the Youths:
In his closing remarks, Mr. Malla shared an emotional and empowering message to the youths:
“Never wait for someone to offer you a chance to create your own. Don’t be afraid of rejection, because rejection is often the redirection to your real path. Look within, stay curious, and remember that your voice matters. Discover your roots, embrace your identity, and most importantly, keep questioning, keep creating, and keep believing in your worth.” He urged every young person to be fearless in expressing themselves, to explore their talents, and to contribute to society through creativity, compassion, and courage.
Conclusion: Lessons from a Man of Vision
Mr. Malla’s journey is a reflection of the power of self-belief, resilience, and creativity. His story reminds every young person that it’s okay to be left out as long as you create your own stage and dare to perform on it. Coca-Cola Presents Youth Dialogue continues to be a beacon of such stories, helping young minds dream bigger and believe stronger.
