The Inspiring Journey of Nanda Kumari Thapa: From a Radio Voice to Deputy Mayor

Nanda Kumari Thapa: From a Captivating Voice on Radio to Leading the Charge for Justice in Badimalika There was a time when a familiar and trusted voice echoed through the rugged hills of Bajura. That voice didn't just report news; it gave a platform to the silent struggles of farmers, the hardships of laborers, and the dreams of the marginalized. That passion for the microphone did more than just establish Nanda Kumari Thapa as a formidable journalist; it built the very foundation that has led her to the esteemed office of Deputy Mayor of Badimalika Municipality today.

A Childhood Defined by Resilience Born on December 28, 1989, in Martadi, Nanda Kumari’s early life was far from easy. Raised in a humble farming family, her days began before dawn in the cowshed and ended late with household chores. She even contributed to her family's livelihood by selling milk. Despite these grueling responsibilities, her thirst for knowledge never wavered, eventually leading her to earn a Master’s degree in Nepali.

The 1,500 Rupee Beginning Her professional journey began in 2010 at Radio Bajura with a modest monthly salary of just 1,500 rupees. While the pay was small, her vision was immense. Through sheer grit and dedication, she rose through the ranks—from a program producer to Station Manager and eventually the General Manager. Over the years, her voice became a beacon of hope for women, children, and the elderly.

From Asking Questions to Providing Solutions After years of holding authority accountable as a journalist and serving in leadership roles within the Federation of Nepali Journalists, Nanda Kumari decided it was time to step into the arena of change-making. In the 2022 local elections, representing the CPN (UML), she won a decisive victory with 4,233 votes. The people of Badimalika chose to transition her from the journalist who asks the tough questions to the leader who provides the answers.

Today, she focuses her leadership on the welfare of women, children, and people with disabilities, proving that a background in grassroots storytelling is the perfect preparation for public service.

"Journalism didn't just change my perspective; it gave me the courage to realize that I shouldn't just witness the problems—I have the power to fix the structures behind them," she reflects.