For this episode of the podcast, we are pleased to bring you a conversation between Bijay Raj Paudel and Pikam Pun regarding their experiences living in remote villages of Nepal. Bijay’s village (Khimti) hails by the side of Khimti River in Ramechhap district of Province Number 3 of Nepal, while Pikam’s hamlet (Chimkhola) rests at the foothills of Mt. Dhaulagiri in Myagdi district of Gandaki Province of Nepal.While both villages have different ethnic makeup and a unique cultural identity, the trials and tribulations are the same. Despite having a limited set of opportunities, lack of proper health and educational infrastructure and topography hindering progress and development in both places, a sense of optimism and hope exists in both places evident by the jovial nature of celebration and a shared sense of community in both places. What are Bijay's and Pikam’s perspectives on the prospects of progress in their community? Follow along the episode to learn more.Umesh, the co-host of The Banal Podcast, who mostly grew up in suburbs of Terai region in Nepal, shares his perspectives on growing up in an urban/sub-urban setting in Nepal and the differences between his experience vs. Bijay and Pikam. While this conversation is entirely based on anecdotes/personal experiences, we sincerely hope that it is reflective of experiences of our audience who grew up in the countryside.Further details is available at our website.Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter