"Sumnima Jewellery and Collection UK - A Heartwarming Visit to Colchester"

Some weeks ago, Manika Rai, proprietor of Sumnima Jewellery and Collection UK, expressed her wish to visit Colchester and display her exquisite collection of traditional jewellery, clothing, and Nepali goods. She first contacted me in early August with this idea, hoping to share her artistry and connect with our community. After consulting our committee members and receiving no objections, I warmly welcomed her proposal. I invited her to visit Colchester after Dashain and before the Tihar celebration, a time of joy, renewal, and togetherness for all Nepalis.

Manika chose Saturday, 18 October, just ahead of Tihar, for her special exhibition.

To ensure that everyone had the opportunity to benefit from this occasion, Sumnima Jewellery and Collection UK was advertised widely through both the Ko. Ne. So. main Viber group and the Ladies Group, encouraging members to come, see, and support Nepali entrepreneurship.

On the day of the event, though I was unable to attend due to prior commitments, Yubaraj Khatri and our ever-dedicated Ladies Coordinator, Kamla Khatri, graciously took the lead in organising the display at Studio 2, Firstsite Colchester. Yubaraj welcomed Manika and her team at noon, arranged refreshments for visitors and members alike, and made sure everything ran smoothly. Throughout the day, members dropped in, admiring the craftsmanship, purchasing beautiful items, and enjoying a warm and friendly atmosphere that carried the spirit of the festive season.

By evening, as the exhibition concluded at around 7 p.m., Manika expressed her happiness with the excellent hospitality shown by the Ko family. Ne. So, she shared her appreciation for the opportunity to meet the Colchester community. She left with fond memories, new friends, and the promise to return in the future.

This event once again reflected the unity and generosity of our society, where community spirit, culture, and cooperation come together beautifully. On behalf of Ko. Ne. So., I would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Yubaraj Khatri and to our Ladies Coordinator Kamla Khatri, for their tireless dedication and excellent organisation. Without their enthusiasm and commitment, this event would not have been possible.

Well done, Yubaraj and Kamla, your efforts truly embody the spirit of Ko. Ne. So! Manika generously donated £105 to CNS, and further £101 three weeks later, making a total of £206.

Udaibahadur Gurung MBE

Chair / Trustee

Colchester Nepali Society (CNS)