Nepal Celebrates World Tai Chi and Qigong Day

Nepal joined the global community in observing World Tai Chi and Qigong Day 2026 with a vibrant and well-attended event organized by the Nepal Wuma Kung Fu Association on Saturday. The celebration took place on the sacred premises of Budhanilkantha Temple in Budhanilkantha Municipality, Kathmandu, drawing more than 250 participants, including students, practitioners, and enthusiasts from various schools and clubs. Under the leadership of Nepal Wuma Kung Fu Association President and international judge Sanjit Kumar Rai, the program successfully promoted the ancient Chinese practices of Tai Chi and Qigong for physical health, mental well-being, and cultural harmony.

Grand Celebration Inaugurated at Historic Budhanilkantha Venue

The event was formally inaugurated by Budhanilkantha Municipality Deputy Mayor Anita Lama, who served as the chief guest. The program received full support from Ward No. 3 of Budhanilkantha Municipality, with Ward Chairman Akash Dhital actively participating throughout the day. Nepal Wuma Kung Fu Association officials, including Vice President and international judge Bhupendra Gurung; Vice Presidents Ramesh Maharjan and Suman Lama (who also coordinated the program); and Chief Coach Deepak Shrestha played pivotal roles in ensuring the smooth execution of all activities.

Spectacular Tai Chi and Qigong Demonstrations Captivate Audience

Participants delivered graceful and impressive live demonstrations of Tai Chi 24 Form, Tai Chi 42 Form, Tai Chi Sword routines, and various Qigong exercises that highlighted the artistic and health-focused aspects of these disciplines. Adding a colorful cultural dimension, athletes from the Budhanilkantha Lion Dragon Association presented a lively Lion Dance performance that enthralled the large gathering. Sanjit Kumar Rai and Bhupendra Gurung addressed the audience, explaining the significance of these traditional practices in promoting overall wellness and unity.

Honoring Long-Time Practitioners and Achievers

During the ceremony, several dedicated individuals who have contributed significantly to Wuma Kung Fu over the years were felicitated. Those honored included Shyam Prasad Gautam, Hari Kumar Karki, and Chandra Bahadur Shah from Shankhapark Tai Chi and Qigong Club, along with former national footballer and Ward No. 3 member Vikas Tamang. National and international gold medalist karate exponent Janak Singh Khadka was also recognized for his outstanding achievements in martial arts competitions.

Sports Journalist Vishnu Thapa Receives Honorary Membership

In a special highlight of the program, sports journalist Vishnu Thapa was conferred honorary membership of the Nepal Wuma Kung Fu Association. This recognition was awarded in appreciation of his more than two decades of dedicated contribution to sports journalism and the development of various sports disciplines in Nepal. The honorary membership was formally presented by Sanjit Kumar Rai, Bhupendra Gurung, and Deepak Shrestha following a decision taken by the association’s central executive committee meeting held on Chaitra 15.

Dignitaries and Cultural Ties Strengthened

The event was graced by the presence of Chinese Culture Centre Deputy Director Liu Bang Ping, who added an international dimension to the celebration. Local leaders including Anita Lama, Akash Dhital, Sanjit Kumar Rai, Bhupendra Gurung, Ramesh Maharjan, Suman Lama, and Deepak Shrestha addressed the gathering and spoke about the growing popularity of Tai Chi and Qigong in Nepal.

Global Theme and Nepal’s Two-Decade Tradition

World Tai Chi and Qigong Day has been observed worldwide since 1999 under the inspiring theme “One World, One Breath.” Nepal has been actively participating in this global observance for the past 20 years through diverse programs organized by the Nepal Wuma Kung Fu Association, as noted by Sanjit Kumar Rai. The successful event once again underscored the importance of these ancient practices in fostering health, harmony, and stronger cultural relations between Nepal and China.

Sources: Ehimalayatimes, Gorkhapatraonline, Annapurnapost