By james art 
KATHMANDU – As Bhaitika, the last day of Tihar, approaches, sisters in Nepal prepare garlands for their brothers. But for 17-year-old Pushpa Joshi of Ward 3 in Bhimdatta Municipality, Tihar has lost its joy.
Her brother Bipin Joshi, who went to Israel on the Learn and Earn programme, has been missing for over a year. Last year, Pushpa made a marigold garland, hoping that he would wear it, but Bipin never came home.
“I had kept the garland ready, hoping he would wear it when he came. But it just dried up,” said Pushpa. “I planted many flowers again this year, but there is no news yet.” Studying in Mahendranagar, Pushpa notes Bhaitika alone, missing her brother’s presence.
“Two festivals went by in anticipation,” she shared. “But it’s too much now. He should be brought back soon.” Her thoughts are filled with memories of Bipin, whose absence has left a deep void. The close bond between the siblings, like childhood friends, makes his absence even more difficult for her.
Bipin was one of 49 students from Far Western University’s Faculty of Agriculture who traveled to Israel last year. Less than a month after their arrival, a Hamas attack hit Kibbutz Alumim in southern Israel, where they were stationed. The attack claimed the lives of ten Nepali students, and Bipin was reportedly captured by Hamas.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) later confirmed that Bipin was being held by Hamas, but his current status remained unknown. His father, Mahananda Joshi, said government officials have assured them that they are making continuous efforts for his safe return, but their wait continues.