Nepalese Artist, Krishna Gurung Pens A Heartfelt Song On Animal Rights, Watch The Video

Born and raised in a village called Samjur Majhgaun in Nepal, Mr. Krishna Gurung studied fine arts in Kathmandu before establishing himself firmly in the world of graphic and logo design. Mr. Gurung has designed the identities of many established organisations in Nepal.  He also is actively involved in social work at the grassroots level. The Government of Nepal has also awarded him with the National Award for Public Service for social work he has undertaken in his native village.

From Vegetarian To A Vocal Vegan Conducting Social Awareness Programs

About 24 years ago Mr. Gurung, turned vegetarian after deciding that he could not support the violence and ill-treatment of animals just so he could eat. He says “At first, I was skeptical about whether people could live a vegetarian life. At that time, I read Gandhi’s autobiography. Mahatma Gandhi was a vegetarian and a world-renowned leader and that became a big inspiration for me.” He stuck to his vegetarian resolve but soon it became clear to him that vegetarianism was not enough to end human violence and the exploitation of animals. “It was then I decided to become a vegan around the year 2000.”

Mr. Gurung has taken on the responsibility to create social awareness around the cruelty of animals and to achieve that goal as the current President of the Nepal Vegetarian Association, he and his team of volunteers conduct various programs regularly. Some of these include weekly clean-ups of cultural heritage sites, animal tribute programs on New Year’s Eve, veggie picnics, cooking workshops and potlucks.

Using Music To Tug At The Heartstrings

‘Timro Jastai’ (Like Yours) is Mr. Gurung’s musical contribution to the animal rights movement. “There is a kind of power in music, it deepens the depth of sensitivity in the human heart. I strongly believe that the same ideas can be communicated more effectively through music than by giving lectures. I have written this song with the intention of using this magical power that exists in music to the field of non-violence, compassion and animal welfare,” says Mr. Gurung.

When asked what the song signifies, he says “the song urges people to think why we normalise sinful practices against animals. It questions how we as humans can see ourselves separate from these animals when we have so much in common. Human beings fear death as much as animals do. Our hearts are full of compassion and the song tries to make people realise what it is for.” The song implores people to live and let live.

Sung by popular singer, Dr. Trishala Gurung, the video features a couple going through their daily lives as the owners of a butcher shop with a constant juxtaposition of events that makes them wonder why animals don’t deserve the same compassion that humans command.

Growing Acceptance Of Veganism in Nepal

Mr. Gurung says that veganism in Nepal is growing among the younger generation. He adds, “the subject of veganism is not being accepted by the generation that has passed the age of learning. There are many people in Nepal who follow a vegetarian lifestyle on religious and spiritual grounds. We are using social media as a tool to unite vegetarians and vegans to spread awareness.”

He often receives messages that young people have turned to vegetarianism and veganism after coming across one of his awareness programs. This keeps the volunteers enthusiastic and inspired to continue with their work. He says, “although the prevailing animal violence in the name of sacrificial rituals in temples has not been stopped directly or completely, we have witnessed a sharp decline in sacrificial practices in temples 10 years ago and now”.

A Devoted Life

Mr. Gurung has dedicated his life to veganism and spreading the idea of compassion towards all creatures. He plans to continue the work of the Nepal Vegetarian Association and highlight the issue of animal rights at the policy level in the government. The Association is also aiding with the Himalayan Vegan Festival in association with the World Vegan Organisation, Nepal as co-organiser. Mr Gurung is also writing a theme song for the festival. He plans to work on his YouTube channel Vegan Guru to further his cause through songs, videos, vlogs, documentaries, and short films.

“In the beginning, people were afraid to admit that they were vegetarian for fear of being judged, but now more and more people in Nepal are proud to call themselves vegetarians or vegans”, says Mr. Gurung. This has got a lot to do with the collective work being done by individuals like Mr. Gurung who continue to inspire people to choose kindness towards all beings.

You can watch Timro Jasti HERE

Translation: Like Yours

Do they not have the desire to live like yours?
If it hurts when you are cut, do they not feel the same?
Do they not have red blood like you?
Isn't it the law that everyone will die one day?

The world is better when all creatures play and dance.
What good is a human's life, if it adopts violence?
My friend, please understand the worth of a creature's life.
What else is the sea of compassion in human's hearts for?

O human, live and let them live, they are not at fault.
O human, one who practices Dharma, does not take the life of others.
O human, do not be immersed in selfishness and taste, you shall weep in sin.
You will get disease and grief, and you will face a lot of troubles.

Like the way you panic when you face troubles
The love of their life is the same for everyone, it is not that you don't understand.
O human, don't kill creatures that are like your own children.
O human, don't turn this paradise-like world into hell.

Lyrics: Krishna Gurung
Vocal: Dr. Trishala Gurung
Music: B. B. Anuragee

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