Russian House in Kathmandu hosts 'Reflection–2025' photo exhibition, New Year celebration

KATHMANDU: The Russian House in Kathmandu organised the 'Reflection–2025' photo exhibition and a New Year celebration on Tuesday evening at its premises.

The exhibition was formally inaugurated with the lighting of the traditional Panas lamp, led by the chief guest Andrey Yuryevich Kiselenko, Minister‑Counsellor (Charge d’Affaires) of the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Nepal. Anastasia Khokhlova, Director of the Russian House in Kathmandu, and presidents of partner organisations, including Mitra Kunj, Nepal–Russia Literary Society (NRLS), Nepal–Russia Friendship and Cultural Association (NRFCA) and Nepal–Russia Science Society (NRSC), were present.

Addressing the gathering, Minister‑Counsellor Kiselenko highlighted the importance of cultural exchange and people‑to‑people connections in strengthening Nepal–Russia relations and appreciated the role of the Russian House in Kathmandu and its partners in promoting language, literature, science and cultural cooperation between the two countries.

In her address, Khokhlova welcomed guests and described the 'Reflection–2025' exhibition as a visual journey through meaningful moments, partnerships and achievements of the year, noting that it serves not only as a reflection of the past year but also as an inspiration for future cooperation.

Sushma Khatri, President of Mitra Kunj, emphasised the value of sustained cultural dialogue, while Bishnu Bahadur Singh, President of NRLS, spoke on the role of literature and shared heritage in fostering mutual understanding. Rajendra Adhikari, President of NRFCA, underlined the long‑standing friendship between Nepal and Russia and the need to deepen cultural and social collaboration.

The formal programme concluded with closing remarks by Ganesh Shah, President of NRSC, who highlighted the role of science and education in building stronger bilateral ties.

The event brought together diplomats, cultural leaders, scholars, media representatives and friends of Nepal–Russia relations to reflect on the year gone by and welcome the New Year with optimism and goodwill. On the occasion, the organisers announced a charitable initiative to support orphan children by raising funds for winter clothing.

The evening concluded with refreshments, informal interaction among guests and tours of the 'Reflection–2025' photo exhibition.