Date: Wed Jan 10, 2001
Subject: Kathmandu

Hey folks,

I've been lounging in Kathmandu for the last few days, enjoying chocolate cake at Snowman in Freak St, where countless hippies have enjoyed chocolate cake for the last 30 years or so.

What to say about Kathmandu? It's cold, but not so cold - I'm quite enjoying snuggling up in my jumpers and shawls and all. It's got atmosphere - it reminds me of Varanasi in some ways, the narrow lanes (although here, they're more often wide enough to take cars), the way temples and shrines are part of the cityscape. But it's a lot more modern than Varanasi - the people here seem to have a much more global perspective.

One thing which has made a big impression on me is one of the two local FM radio stations - HBC94FM, "Sacred Valley, Shakti Radio". They play a wide range of music from Nepali folk songs to Bob Dylan, Western to Indian classical music, 60s, jazz, world music etc. I strongly recommend you to visit their website straight away -> www.hbc.com.np

One of the special things HBC are doing is "The Love Revolution". For six months, they're having hourly visualisations of peace, love, healing and harmony spreading around the world - "Our thoughts shape our reality, together we can make a difference" and "Every hour, claiming our power" are two slogans.

It's great stuff. Below are some extracts from the website...

Lots of love,
Shen
Aum Mani Padme Hum

What is your core philosophy?

Culture, spirit, medicine knowledge, geomancy and sacred arts remain living traditions in the Himalayas. Sound in prayer and chanting, music and dance, evoke conscious expansion and understanding.

HBC94FM conveys this unique treasure, while offering world's music & cultures to the Kingdom of Nepal. Peace network envisions a creative exchange with other radio stations, musicians and artists worldwide. A bridge of sound across time and space promotes international friendship and respect.

Power sites, such as the Pyramids, Stonehenge and Kasthamandap are multidimensional healing gateways. The elliptical valley bowl of Kathmandu is a five stranded sacred mandala tapestry: Animism, Mother Goddess, Shiva, Vishnu and Buddha.

Humanity needs to survive the present environmental crisis caused by polluted minds and negative emotions. Sound broadcast is an instant connection to the fifth and most subtle, healing, alchemical element: akash, the ether.