The 12th International Folk Festival wrapped up on Saturday after a 10-day run. The festival kicked off with an opening ceremony at the Nepal Academy in Kamaladi, Kathmandu, on March 2. More than 300 participants from 11 countries participated in the event.

Following the inaugural show in Kathmandu, the festival travelled to Ghorahi, Dang, on March 4, Pokhara on March 6, and returned to Kathmandu. The concluding show took place on Saturday at Laligurans National Academy in Manamaiju, Kathmandu.

On Friday, March 8, participants from Austria, Belgium, Botswana, Estonia, Germany, Nepal, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Poland, and South Africa showcased their respective countries' culture, demonstrating a shared love for music and dance at Jhochhen, Freak Street, Kathmandu.

The festival, held every two years in different parts of the world for the past two decades, was organised by the Everest Nepal Cultural Group this year, with support from Vajra Kala Kunja and the Ancient Monument Conservation Research Society.

The event at Jhochhen commenced with a welcoming address from the President of Vajra Kala Kunja, Chandra Man Munikar, who greeted the international delegates, stating, “We all come from different backgrounds, but our shared passion for dance and music unites us here today.”

Following the welcome note, a gift exchange ceremony took place, where Sunita Dangol, the Deputy Mayor of Kathmandu Metropolitan City, presented souvenirs to delegates from all 11 nations. “We believe that cultural exchange programs like this will enhance relationships between different countries,” she said.

Shortly after, students from Vajra Kala Kunja initiated the programme with a welcoming performance, followed by performances from Austria, Indonesia, Estonia, and others.