The Restaurant and Bar Association (REBAN) Sauraha has elected Shambhu Prasad Mali as its new president during the organization’s 19th Annual General Meeting and 10th Convention held in Sauraha. The election, conducted unanimously by the election committee, marks a new chapter in REBAN’s efforts to promote tourism and hospitality in the Chitwan region.
President’s Vision for Tourism Growth
Mali, a prominent figure in Sauraha’s tourism industry, pledged to methodically improve tourism growth, enhance the town’s aesthetics, and organize the 20th Food Festival. “Our priority is to make Sauraha a more attractive and sustainable destination for domestic and international tourists,” Mali stated in his acceptance speech, emphasizing sustainable and inclusive development.
Key Committee Members Elected
Alongside Mali, Kumar Joshi was elected First Vice-President, Krishna Prasad Khatiwada as Second Vice-President, and Purushottam Lamichhane as Third Vice-President. Nabin Nepal was elected General Secretary, with Rojnath Pathak as Treasurer, Ram Kumar Gurau as Secretary, and Ghanashyam Chaudhary as Co-Treasurer. Additional committee members include Ishwor Prasad Rijal, Ramkaji Adhikari, Sanumaya Thapa Magar, Chitra Bahadur Kumal, Sancha Tamang, and Madhav Chapagain.
Coordinator for 20th Food Festival
Krishna Prasad Khatiwada has been selected as coordinator for the 20th Food Festival, one of REBAN Sauraha’s flagship events that showcases local cuisine and culture. The festival is expected to attract thousands of tourists and will feature traditional foods, live music, and cultural performances, reinforcing Sauraha’s position as a premier tourism hub.
Oath and Handover Ceremony
Balram Dahal, REBAN Sauraha’s founding chairman and election committee coordinator, administered the oath of office and secrecy to the newly elected members. Former president Dhruba Giri formally handed over the leadership, commending the association’s progress over the previous term and expressing confidence in the new committee’s capabilities.
Transparent and Consensus-Based Election
The election committee, led by Dahal and comprising past REBAN chairs Purushottam Shrestha, Subash Chandra Gautam, Sitaram Kumal, Rajan Bhatta, Gokarna Giri, Dipendra Khatiwada, Naresh Giri, and Dhruv Giri, ensured that the selection process was transparent, democratic, and consensus-based.
REBAN Sauraha’s Role in Regional Tourism
Established to represent and support local restaurants, bars, and tourism entrepreneurs, REBAN Sauraha has played a pivotal role in shaping the hospitality landscape in the Chitwan tourism hub. Over more than two decades, the association has actively advocated for policy support, infrastructure improvement, and sustainable tourism practices.
New Committee Assumes Office Amid Growing Tourism
The new leadership assumes office amid increasing tourist footfall and rising expectations for quality service, cultural promotion, and community engagement. Mali highlighted the importance of collaboration with local authorities, conservation bodies, and resident groups to ensure tourism growth benefits the entire community.
Focus on Innovation and Cultural Vibrancy
As preparations for the 20th Food Festival begin, the association aims to deliver on promises of innovation, cleanliness, and cultural vibrancy. The new committee is expected to strengthen Sauraha’s reputation as a key destination in Nepal’s tourism map, enhancing both domestic and international appeal.
