Cosmonautics Festival in Kathmandu marks 65th anniversary of human spaceflight, honours Yuri Gagarin

KATHMANDU: The Cosmonautics Festival concluded in Kathmandu on Friday after three days of programmes marking the 65th anniversary of human spaceflight and honouring Yuri Gagarin.

The event, held from April 8 to 10, featured seminars, workshops and public activities.

On the festival’s second day, a seminar was staged in collaboration with Mitra Kunj and the Russian House in Kathmandu. Associate Prof Dr Nanda Bikram Adhikari of Pulchowk Campus, Tribhuvan University, delivered a presentation on the timeline of Nepal's space programme and policy and its position in the global space programme. He outlined the development of Nepal’s space programme, recent policy initiatives and the country’s place in the international space community. On the occasion, a documentary on the history of Russia’s space exploration was also screened.

The final day began with a tribute ceremony at the statue of Yuri Gagarin in Ratnapark. Representatives from Nepal Russia Science and Technology Society, The Squad of ChangeMakers, the Russian House and the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Nepal attended. Rinchen Rakshaev, Minister Counsellor and Chargé d'Affaires, joined students, staff and invited guests for floral offerings, student speeches and addresses that highlighted the significance of International Cosmonautics Day and the inspirational value of space exploration.

Following the tribute, the main programme at the Russian House in Kathmandu drew about 100 students and teachers. Presentations on the vastness of the universe and the future of space travel introduced participants to the scope and potential of space science. Interactive quizzes and sports sessions encouraged active student participation, and awards and certificates were presented to top performers from an aerospace and rocketry workshop held the previous day.

The event’s chief guest, Dr Madan Lall Shrestha of Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST), emphasised the growing importance of science and technology education in Nepal. He urged the younger generation to pursue research, innovation and creative thinking, and stressed that international cooperation will be essential to expand Nepal’s role in space science.

An exhibition titled 'Legacy Beyond Earth: 65 Years of Yuri Gagarin's Historic Space Flight' opened to the public at the Russian House during the festival, showcasing Gagarin’s life and achievements alongside Russia’s contributions to space exploration. The festival concluded with presentations of honours and tokens of appreciation, a tour of the exhibition and further interaction among participants.