RTP Dashain Cup Kicks Off in North Carolina, USA

October 7, Sunsari. The RTP Dashain Khasi Cup football tournament has commenced at Apex Nature Park Stadium in North Carolina, USA. Organized by the Nepali community residing long-term in the United States, the event marks the celebration of Dashain and Tihar festivals. According to Tanka Selling, a member of the organizing committee, matches will be held weekly at Apex Nature Park Stadium over the course of a month.

The RTP Dashain Khasi Cup has been held continuously for the past 10 years and aims to foster unity, mutual friendship, and social harmony among Nepalis living in the United States. Selling stated, “Though we live far from our homeland in the US due to various reasons and circumstances, our hearts remain Nepali.” He added that with the festivals approaching, it is important not only to remember family and relatives but also to pass on Nepali cultural traditions to the younger generations residing abroad, which is why this tournament was organized.

Ten teams are participating in the tournament. Since it began on September 18, teams including Chiyabari FC, Durga FC, Machapuchhre FC, and Rhino FC have advanced to the semifinals. The final match is scheduled for October 10. The winning team will receive medals and a 30-kilogram goat as the trophy. Vikas Sapkota, another member of the organizing committee, explained that the purpose of the tournament is to preserve Nepali festivals, culture, and traditions.

Player Bhupal Koirala mentioned that the RTP Dashain Cup is evolving into a collective event for all Nepalis. Organizing members emphasized that this tournament plays an important role in connecting the second and new generations of Nepalis living in the US with their cultural heritage and traditional festivals.