Now that Rajendra Khadka is done pontificating ("Diaspora in dilemma," #76) on who the thousands of us FoReN are, what we think, see and feel, and even what we should do, could he be so kind as to use his demonstrated omniscience and send us (preferably without condescension, contempt, over-generalisations, or literary name-dropping) the winning number of the next Powerball Lottery?

R Subba
USA

I am writing to say that I am struck by the vehemence and defensiveness of the reaction to Rajendra Khadka's perceptive article on the diaspora. Obviously, Khadka's article has forced them to ask tough questions about themselves.

Geetanjali Tamang
by email

I agree with Rajendra Khadka that there are possibilities in Nepal. But we need to make them happen. And we won't do that by making it an "us" and "them" issue. Khadka's article is a vague and myopic generalisation that categorises all the Nepalis living in the West with his new coinage: "FoReN". He condescendingly challenges the intelligence and maturity of the Nepali diaspora by limiting their discussion of Nepal to "dust, corruption, decay".

Some may choose to live abroad, some may return after learning skills, and some may just opt out. Various Nepali organisations such as ours make an earnest effort to increase understanding through exchanges. There is a new trend among Nepalis, including returnees like Khadka, to engage in productive activities. This is a positive sign as long as it is conducive to growth. It is better for Nepalis in Nepal and outside to work together instead of throwing labels at each other.

Sujit NS Thapa
Nepal Association of Northern California
San Francisco