Why celebrities leave Nepal? Tenzing Sherpa to Prabal Gurung to Teriya Magar

These days it is quite common – successful Nepali people readily leave Nepal to live in foreign countries. When asked, they tell that, there is better opportunities in other countries. They tell that they ‘represent Nepal’ in whatever they do (like Teriya Magar). They claim that they are a Nepali ‘in heart’ and artistes have no borders (Udit Narayan). Is that true?

It is not only celebrities that are leaving Nepal, virtually everybody, capable of working or studying, is leaving in the name of work or education respectively. The effect is evident – I have heard about multiple instances in Nepal – about offices not receiving enought applications to fill vacancies in some specialized jobs. One of my friends had complained about how difficult it is to find a specialized employee. He added, “If found one, retaining that guy for long is a nightmare.”

I have a few unanswered questions:

  • Is brain drain good or bad ?
    If it is good – it should be promoted. If bad, government should be doing something about that
  • It it easy for the celebrities in foreign country?
    I think, it is always easier for them to live in their own countries. Something bigger is forcing them to take the risk and challenge. Many well known celebrities at home seem to be happy with odd jobs in foreign countries.
  • Who is causing this?
    I think somebody/some system is pushing unwilling talents out of Nepal. Who is that? Why is that?

I have compiled the list of Nepali talents who have left Nepal:
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