Nākaloka makes Kathmandu debut with an evening of music, devotion and silence

Beneath the November night sky, a plane passed overhead as a cool breeze swept through a courtyard at Hanuman Dhoka in Basantapur Durbar Square, Kathmandu. Surrounded by centuries-old architecture, the courtyard on Friday welcomed participants into the world of Nākaloka with candlelights, the fragrance of white chrysanthemums (godawari) and a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Nākaloka, a sanskrit word meaning “the heavenly world”, is an immersive spiritual experience that brings music and sacred practices. Founded in 2021 by Monica Dogra and Victorien, the initiative has travelled to more than 10 countries including Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Indonesia, India and Sweden.

On Friday, it made its Nepal debut at a historic site within the Kathmandu Valley UNESCO World Heritage property. A travelling, non-profit initiative, Nākaloka presents its gatherings on a donation basis in association with charitable causes.