Category: In the News

Venerable Dr. Kumar Gurung and Dr. Narad Pokhrel have received the 2026 Lifetime Legacy & Leadership Award for their long-standing contributions to their communities and various fields of service. The awards were presented at the Bhutanese Joint Annual Conference 2026 in Omaha and jointly conferred by several Bhutanese organizations. Dr. Gurung was recognized for his work in entrepreneurship, investment, spiritual practice, and community advocacy. At the same time, Dr. Pokhrel received recognition for his contributions to human services, research, writing and community development. The event also brought together cultural and literary activities that highlighted identity, education, and community connections.
https://english.himalayatimes.com.np/2026/09/100723/?fbclid=IwY2xjawUXbfFwZG9mBWV4dG4DYWVtAjEwAGJyaWQRMXlTMFN2clowR2RvNjh2WTRzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEebC0cwSh1i55fpGAUd5C9QyZlaKCbway7TSlkLpoMdhs3Ki0ygC3CsHsup3I_aem_-jrndzOmjmqkt92cwqp1lA

The International Council of Gurung Buddhism (ICGB) organized a one-day interaction and suggestion collection programme in Ranipool, Sikkim, focusing on the Buddhist practices, rituals, language, culture and traditions of the Gurung community. The programme was attended by Sikkim Agriculture Minister Puran Gurung as the chief guest, along with ICGB President Dr. Kumar Gurung and Vice Presidents Dhurva Bahadur Gurung and Champa Lama as resource speakers. Discussions highlighted the importance of preserving Gurung cultural heritage and strengthening community identity. Speakers also shared details about the upcoming ICGB General Convention, scheduled to take place in Kathmandu on September 25–26, with participants expected from Sikkim and other regions. The ICGB also highlighted its international presence, currently active in 15 countries, and its plans for further global expansion.

https://sikkimexpress.com/news-details/icgb-initiates-interaction-programme-on-buddhism-practised-by-gurung-community

The International Council of Gurung Buddhism held an interaction programme in Ranipool to discuss the religious and cultural practices of the Gurung community. Participants shared views and suggestions concerning Gurung Buddhism, traditional rituals, language, culture, and community identity. The programme also provided an opportunity to discuss the importance of preserving Gurung heritage and strengthening connections among Gurung communities across different regions and countries.

ICGB initiates interaction programme on Buddhism practised by Gurung c – Sikkimexpress

The first convention and conference of the International Gurung Wisdom Council is set to be held in Kathmandu, bringing together members and representatives of the Buddhist Gurung community from different parts of the world. Participants from around a dozen countries, including Nepal, India, Bhutan, the United States, Britain, and Australia, are expected to take part in this significant gathering. The convention will provide an important platform for Gurung Buddhist communities to come together, share knowledge and experiences, and discuss matters related to their spiritual traditions, cultural heritage, wisdom, and community development. The gathering is also expected to strengthen connections among Gurung communities living in different countries while promoting greater understanding and cooperation.

https://ekantipur.com/news/2025/04/25/en/the-first-convention-and-conference-of-the-international-gurung-wisdom-council-will-be-held-in-kathmandu-on-the-second-week-of-october-09-43.html

Gurung Buddhist communities from Nepal and several countries were preparing to come together in Kathmandu for the first convention and international conference of the International Gurung Wisdom Council. The gathering was expected to include participants from Nepal, India, Bhutan, the United States, Britain, and Australia. Discussions would focus on Gurung Buddhism, cultural traditions, language, religion, and the need to bring diverse Gurung communities into greater understanding and harmony.

https://ekantipur.com/news/2025/04/25/en/the-first-convention-and-conference-of-the-international-gurung-wisdom-council-will-be-held-in-kathmandu-on-the-second-week-of-october-09-43.html

A tragic apartment fire in Omaha late Monday night claimed one life and caused significant damage to several homes in the building. The woman who died was described by landlord Kumar Gurung as a kind resident who lived alone and regularly offered food and help to people around her. Officials said firefighters were able to rescue another person from the three-story building. Two families lost their apartments and were temporarily housed in a hotel, while the Red Cross assisted 10 other displaced people. The exact cause of the fire had not been determined at the time of the report.

https://www.ketv.com/article/omaha-fatal-apartment-fire-monday-night/60720188

Bhutanese activists living abroad have taken their call for reconciliation to the international level by appealing to the UNDP. Their request centers on establishing a process that could encourage dialogue, address unresolved concerns, and bring different Bhutanese communities into discussion. The appeal places emphasis on peaceful engagement and international support as part of efforts to explore possible pathways toward reconciliation in Bhutan.

Expat Bhutanese activists appeal to UNDP to mediate reconciliation process in Bhutan | South Asia Monitor