Introduction to Baglunge in Canada

According to the organization’s understanding, Mr. Bishnu Prasad Sharma was the first person from Baglung to settle in Canada, arriving in the mid-1980s. He was followed by Mr. Prajapati Sharma, Mr. Ganesh Khatri, Mr. Keshav Kandel, and Mr. Ram Prasad Sapkota in the late 1980s and early 1990s. During the 1990s, many young people, including Mr. Durga Adhikari and Mr. Ishwor Chand Rajan, also came to Canada. Many of these early immigrants became self-employed, and some created employment opportunities for others. Dr. Mahadev Sharma and Dr. Promod Dhakal are among the highly respected professionals who have made significant contributions to both the Nepalese community and Canada.

Many other professionals from Baglung also serve in senior positions within the Government of Canada. Although most of our members live in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), Ontario, many reside throughout Canada because of their work and professional commitments.

Some of the early immigrants appear to have come to Canada through India to work as hotel and restaurant chefs. Others arrived as professional engineers or brought expertise in other marketable fields. In later years, many individuals came as international students or through the Federal Skilled Worker Program. As a result, the organization has become a diverse and inclusive umbrella that brings us all together. Our members have established a strong tradition of participating in social and community activities while living in Canada.

Since those early years, people from Baglung have continued to immigrate to Canada. According to our informal census, more than 200 families originating from Baglung now reside across the country. The streamlined immigration system introduced by the Canadian government in 2008 also provided more accessible pathways for many young professionals to immigrate to Canada.

Our community continues to grow every day. As its population increased, we recognized the need for an organization that would unite us and strengthen our community. This collective strength can help foster harmony among members, facilitate the sharing of experiences and expertise, build networks, and provide mutual assistance. The establishment of the Emergency Fund is a good example of our collective strength and organized commitment to social causes.

Another important purpose of the organization is to preserve our heritage and cultural traditions so that future generations can continue to learn about and practise them. Volleyball, led by former Nepal national volleyball player Mr. Bhupindra Bhandari, has become closely associated with Baglung Sewa Samaj. We have not only participated in tournaments but have also collaborated with other organizations, sharing our talent and skills to promote volleyball within the Nepalese Canadian community.