Photo credits: Himalaya Jet.
In a landmark gesture of corporate support and cultural solidarity, Himalaya Jet, a British premium airline, has pledged a decade-long sponsorship of the two flagship annual events of the Nepali diaspora in the United Kingdom — the Gurkha Cup and Nepali Mela. These events, coordinated by Tamu Dhee UK in collaboration with the Nepali Embassy, are pillars of community celebration and identity among the global Nepali community.
The agreement, announced during a traditional Piper ceremony, signals more than a commercial sponsorship. It forms part of Himalaya Jet’s long-term Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy aimed at supporting Nepali communities abroad. Representatives of Tamu Dhee UK, including trustees and advisors, extended a warm welcome to the Himalaya Jet delegation during the ceremony, which reflected both tradition and community pride.
Jumkaji Gurung, Chairman of Tamu Dhee UK, called the partnership "the biggest game-changing project in the history of Nepal and the Nepali people," underscoring the symbolic and practical significance of the sponsorship.
The event featured a champagne toast in honor of Dipendra Gurung, MIoD, Owner and President of Himalaya Jet. The toast followed tributes to His Majesty King Charles III and the President of Nepal — a gesture highlighting the dual affiliations of the Nepali diaspora in Britain. Traditional Nepali performances lent a vibrant cultural note to the proceedings.
“For the first time in our 25-year history, Tamu Dhee has honored a chief guest at such a high level,” said Kamal Gurung, Chief Coordinator of the event. “We are proud to recognize Mr. Dipendra Gurung MIoD for his exceptional achievements and unwavering dedication to Nepal and the Nepali people.”
Also present was Duchess Nivin, who commended Mr. Gurung’s patriotic vision while hinting at forthcoming initiatives by Himalaya Jet. Ian George, Executive at the Gurung Family Office, elaborated on the family conglomerate’s investments — ranging from airport infrastructure to luxury duty-free retail — emphasizing a deep-seated commitment to serving Nepali communities worldwide.
In his closing remarks, Dipendra Gurung extended his gratitude to Tamu Dhee UK’s leadership, the Non-Resident Nepali Association, Gurkha leaders, and the broader network of community supporters, underlining the collaborative spirit behind the initiative.
Beyond its cultural commitments, Himalaya Jet is preparing to launch direct flights connecting Nepal with key global cities — Sydney, Perth, Paris, Frankfurt, Madrid, Lisbon, and London — starting in Autumn 2025. Touted as ‘patriotic direct flights,’ these routes have been years in the making, involving meticulous compliance with international aviation standards and persistent engagement with regulatory bodies worldwide.
The airline’s long-term vision includes connecting iconic casino hubs — Las Vegas and Macau — with Monte Carlo by 2027/28, targeting the ultra-premium travel segment with new state-of-the-art First and Business Class cabins tailored for high-end casino clientele.
Himalaya Jet is expected to unveil detailed plans at its first official press conference in London in the coming weeks, setting the stage for a bold new chapter in aviation and diaspora engagement.