From Grassroots Activism to Global Vision: The Remarkable Journey of Ujwal Thapa

Ujwal Thapa was more than just a political figure; he was a beacon of hope, a mentor, and a catalyst for change in Nepal’s political landscape. His life and vision inspire anyone who dreams of a better Nepal. Even in his brief political career, Thapa exemplified integrity, leadership, and a deep sense of patriotism that continues to resonate among young and aspiring leaders.

My First Meeting with Ujwal Thapa

My first encounter with Ujwal Dai was serendipitous. On a journey from Kathmandu to Syangja, we ended up sharing a Bus Sit. Initially, I was skeptical of his ideas, dismissing his Bibeksheel Sajha movement as just another Facebook group. But over tea and a conversation that spanned hours, I realized how wrong I had been. His vision for Nepal was profound, and his ability to articulate it with clarity and practicality was transformative. By the time we reached Pokhara, I was not just an admirer; I was a believer in his mission.

From that day, I understood how quickly we form opinions based on hearsay and how vital it is to meet and understand people before judging them.

In 2009, Ujwal established Shangrila Coffee, a coffee farm in Syangja district. This endeavor was particularly close to my heart because my grandfather often spoke of the unmatched quality of Syangja’s coffee. He believed that with proper marketing, Syangja’s coffee could rival global brands. Ujwal Thapa’s coffee business was a testament to that vision, proving that local resources could create world-class products if nurtured properly.

A Mentor to the Youth

Ujwal Thapa’s influence on the youth was unparalleled. He encouraged young people to step into politics, teaching them the values of honesty, hard work, and dedication. He didn’t just preach; he practiced. His decision to elevate a 21-year-old girl to the position of mayor of Nepal’s largest city and entrusting the leadership of his party to a 32-year-old speaks volumes about his belief in the potential of young minds. Thapa saw youth not as inexperienced but as untapped resources for innovative ideas and sustainable change.

Today’s leaders, including Kathmandu’s Mayor Balendra Shah, have likely been influenced by Ujwal Thapa’s philosophy and approach. His emphasis on integrity and practical action serves as a guiding light for those striving to bring positive change.

A Humble Beginning with Great Vision

Thapa’s journey into politics began humbly but with a clear vision. After studying at Bennington College in the U.S., he returned to Nepal in 2002, driven by the desire to contribute to his homeland. He co-founded a software company with two friends and later established Shangrila Coffee in Syangja in 2009, turning his passion for entrepreneurship into a way to uplift local communities. He recognized the potential of Nepali coffee and oranges and believed these industries could be game-changers for Nepal’s economy if supported by the government.

His leadership was marked by grassroots activism. From staging peaceful protests at Maitighar Mandala in support of Dr. Govinda K.C.’s reforms in the medical sector to advocating for affordable healthcare and better governance, Ujwal Thapa believed in action over rhetoric. His campaigns were symbolic yet impactful, often serving as moral lessons for both citizens and leaders.

नेपाल हाम्रो घर हो, डेरा हैन

नेपाल हाम्रो साझा घर हो, कुनै डेरा होइन। घरमा डेरा गरेर बस्नु र त्यसको मालिक हुनुमा नितान्त फरक छ। डेरावाललाई त्यो घरको दिवार चर्किए पनि कुनै वास्ता हुँदैन, किनभने ऊ सजिलै अर्को घरमा सर्न सक्छ। तर घरमालिकको लागि त्यो घर केवल चार भित्ताको संरचना मात्र होइन, उसको अस्तित्व, पहिचान, र उत्तरदायित्वको प्रतीक हो। त्यसैले जब घरको दिवार चर्किन्छ, घरमालिक त्यसलाई मर्मत गर्न लागिपर्छ, किनभने उसलाई थाहा छ, अरू कोही आएर उसको घरलाई जोगाउने छैन।

समस्या के हो भने हामीले नेपाललाई आफ्नो घरको रूपमा नभई डेराको रूपमा हेरेका छौँ। यही सोचाइले गर्दा हाम्रो देशको समस्याप्रति हामी उदासीन छौँ। हामी हाम्रो व्यक्तिगत फाइदा हेर्दै सजिलो उपाय खोज्छौँ र राष्ट्रिय उत्तरदायित्वबाट भाग्न खोज्छौँ। तर यो सोचाइ गलत हो।

“यो देश बचाउने जिम्मा अर्को बुद्धको छैन, न त पशुपतिनाथको।” कुनै देवता वा दाताले आएर यो देश जोगाउने छैन। यो हाम्रो घर हो, यसलाई बचाउनु हाम्रो जिम्मेवारी हो। हामी सोच्छौँ, कुनै देश भासिएर जान्छ अनि नयाँ देशको उदय हुन्छ। तर यस्तो सोच गलत छ। यो देश यदि ढल्यो भने, हामी पनि यसको साथै ढल्छौँ।

हामीले ‘नेपाली भनेर चिनिने’ मात्र होइन, ‘नेपाली बनाएर देखाउने’ बेला आएको छ। नेपाल बचाउनु भनेको हामी सबैको अस्तित्व बचाउनु हो। आफ्नो घरप्रतिको माया र जिम्मेवारीलाई हृदयदेखि आत्मसात गरौँ। नेपाललाई डेराको होइन, आफ्नो घरको रूपमा स्वीकार गरौँ। अब यो देशलाई जोगाउन र अघि बढाउन, सबैले आफ्नो ठाउँबाट योगदान गर्नैपर्छ।

“नेपाल हाम्रो घर हो, डेरा हैन।” यसलाई जोगाउन र समृद्ध बनाउन हाम्रै हातले सम्भव छ।

Foreign Diplomacy and Nepal’s Future

Ujwal Thapa’s understanding of geopolitics was profound. He foresaw a future where Nepal, sandwiched between two global powers, China and India, would need to redefine its role to maintain sovereignty and self-respect.

He believed Nepal should strive to be a “guru nation”—a spiritual and moral guide for its neighbors rather than a pawn in their geopolitical games. This vision was not merely theoretical; it aligned with Nepal’s historical role as a nation of wisdom and resilience. His ideas on foreign diplomacy emphasized neutrality, strategic alliances, and leveraging Nepal’s unique cultural and geographic position to its advantage.

The Mentor Who Inspired a Generation

Ujwal Thapa’s influence extended beyond politics. He was a mentor who believed in the power of action and honesty. His famous words, “If not now, when? If not us, who?” continue to inspire young leaders like Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah (Balen), who has openly followed Thapa’s ideals of clean governance and people-first policies.

Thapa’s ability to connect with people, listen, and guide without expecting personal gain made him a rare figure in Nepal’s political history. His legacy lies in the countless young people he mentored, many of whom are now shaping Nepal’s future in their own ways.

The Bibeksheel Movement: His Legacy

Ujwal Thapa was the founding leader of the Bibeksheel Sajha Party, a movement that sought to bring ethical governance and accountability into Nepali politics. Under his leadership, the party staged protests advocating for reforms in the medical sector and affordable healthcare, and it stood firmly against corruption. His courage to stand up for what was right, even in the face of adversity, marked him as a leader with rare moral clarity.

Thapa believed in action over rhetoric. His philosophy, encapsulated in slogans like “If not now, when? If not us, who?” inspired a generation of Nepalis to take ownership of their future.

A Leader Ahead of His Time

Thapa was not just a political leader; he was a visionary who saw Nepal’s potential on the global stage. He believed Nepal could rival India in the IT sector, providing services to global businesses. His WORDPRESS themes still generate income on platforms like ThemeForest, showcasing his business acumen and forward-thinking.

Despite his success, Thapa chose to enter politics not for personal gain but to give back to his country. He believed in Nepal’s potential to transform from a “cow nation” to a “Guru Rashtra,” a country respected and revered by its neighbors for wisdom, independence, and diplomacy.

The Untimely Loss

Ujjwal Thapa passed away on June 1, 2021, at the age of 44, due to post-COVID-19 complications. His death was a significant loss to Nepal, leaving behind a void that remains unfilled. Many believe that had he lived longer, Nepal’s political and economic landscape could have seen revolutionary changes. He was a leader who walked the talk, inspiring others to dream big and act with integrity.

Lessons for Today’s Leaders and Youth

Thapa’s life offers invaluable lessons:

• Patience and Honesty: He emphasized making informed decisions and avoiding sensationalism.
• Patriotism and Action: He believed in serving the nation selflessly and urged others to take the same path.
• Empowerment of Youth: He trusted young leaders with significant responsibilities, showing his faith in their capabilities.

Today’s leaders, including Kathmandu’s Mayor Balendra Shah, reflect elements of Thapa’s philosophy. It wouldn’t be surprising if Shah, among others, was influenced by Thapa’s vision.

Conclusion: A Leader Worth Remembering

Ujwal Thapa was a trailblazer, a mentor, and a patriot who left an indelible mark on Nepal’s political and social fabric. His philosophy and actions continue to inspire a new wave of young leaders who strive for an ethical and progressive Nepal. Thapa’s story is a poignant reminder that while good leaders may not live forever, their legacies can shape generations to come.