Music resides in the soul of every person. Music has that strength which can bind several hearts from different backgrounds. Prashant Tamang — Indian Idol 3 is a good example. Prashant is an Indian of Nepali origin. He has been able to bind all Nepalis with his magical voice.

Our country is going through a critical period. There is curfew in Western Tarai. There is a fear of riots in the name of religion. The country is politically unstable. There are innumerable problems. Nepal is lacking in unity among its citizens.

In this context, music may be a good way to create national unity. We have seen how Prashant has unified the Nepalis. Several Nepalis went to border area to vote for him. Prashant made all Nepalis more proud by wearing the dhaka topi when he won the title. If one person can unify so many people, then why are the Nepali artists and musicians not able to come up for national unity?

In my opinion, the riots of Kapilvastu can be controlled by our singers and artists. They should jointly make an appeal to control violence. Moreover, the government can invite singers like Prashant and Udit Narayan Jha to Nepal and ask them to appeal for peace and unity. This may be a new and effective way to unite people. We have been using same old way to create awareness among people. I think it is the time to get a new taste.

— Dipendra KC, Class XII, DAV School, Jawalakhel