“English New Year’s Eve and New Year 2026 Celebration

Wednesday, 31 December 2025”

After many years of effort, the long-awaited English New Year’s Eve and New Year celebration was successfully held at the Royal Gurkha Lounge, from 3:00 pm until midnight on Wednesday, 31 December 2025. This achievement was made possible through the dedication and hard work of our Youth Coordinator, Mr Bikash Rai, to whom the community is deeply grateful.

Preparations began well in advance, and members were invited to register their names. By the event day, only 40 members had registered, which initially caused concern. However, despite the low numbers, the decision was made to proceed. From 2:00 pm onwards, members gathered to prepare the venue, decorating the hall and arranging tables and chairs.

As the afternoon progressed, members of the Colchester Nepali Society (CNS) began to arrive steadily. By the evening, attendance exceeded expectations, with over 120 members and nine children present, an encouraging turnout that reflected the community’s enthusiasm and support.

The programme began with starters, followed by a delightful Nepali children’s dance performance, a lively band performance, and the main meal, which was served at approximately 8:30 pm. After dinner, Mr Bikash Rai conducted an interview with the Chair/Trustee, asking about the origins, journey, and future plans of CNS.

In response, the Chair explained that CNS was formally established on 1 January 2006, starting with only a handful of families. Today, the society has grown to nearly 500 households, representing approximately 2,500 Nepali residents in Colchester. The Chair highlighted that CNS continues to operate according to its annual programme of events and has been running weekly Yoga and English classes every year since 2021, supported by £10,000 annually from the National Lottery Community Fund, secured until the end of 2026.

Additionally, the Chair shared that CNS distributes essential food rations using funds secured from the Essex Association of Local Councils, amounting to £5,000 in April/May and £3,000 in December/January each year. Members also raised questions about the possibility of establishing a Nepali temple in Colchester. The Chair reassured them that while CNS is still a relatively small organisation, it is actively working in partnership with the Colchester Diverse Communities Network (CDCN) to first secure land and, in time, build a temple.

Following the interview, the band resumed their performance, and members enjoyed dancing together right up until 11:59 pm. At midnight, the Chair extended New Year greetings to everyone and delivered a heartfelt New Year’s message.

In closing, the Chair expressed sincere thanks to Mr Bikash Rai for organising the event, to his assistants for their time and commitment, to the food providers, performers, and the band for their outstanding contributions.

Their collective efforts ensured a memorable and joyful celebration that was thoroughly enjoyed by all in attendance.

Udaibahadur Gurung MBE

Chair/Trustee

CNS