From dreams to streets: Nirmal’s dance story (video)
Born into a middle-class family, he aspired, like many contestants, to bring pride to his family and country through his talent.
KATHMANDU: A 23-year-old Nirmal Khadka from Sudurpaschim, Dhangadhi had long dreamed of making a name for himself in Indian dance reality shows.
Born into a middle-class family, he aspired, like many contestants, to bring pride to his family and country through his talent.
Following his plan, Nirmal enrolled in a local dance academy in Dhangadhi a few months before his 12th-grade exams.
He informed his maternal uncle, Rajkumar Oli, who lives in India, about his ambition to participate in reality shows.
With his uncle’s approval and support in finding work, Nirmal set off to India to pursue his dreams.
However, reality hit hard.
The day after arriving, he started working long hours as a watchman, at an eyeglass shop, in deliveries, and doing household chores—sometimes up to 14–15 hours a day during overtime.
Exhausted, he found little time or energy to practice dance, and high class fees made formal dance training impossible.
“Physically, I was drained. I couldn’t dance at all,” he said. “With no other way forward, I took to dancing on the streets.”
Forced by circumstances, Nirmal began street dancing, aiming to showcase his talent, earn some income, and cover basic expenses like travel and food.
Over time, he has used the money he earns to help the poor, distressed, and helpless, even while facing insults and obstacles along the way.
Looking ahead, Nirmal plans to take his street dance from Mechi to Mahakali, spreading his passion across Nepal.
See the full interview video with Nirmal:
-Tenzing Dolma Tamang
