Singing the Stories of Humla
Life in Humla is unlike anywhere else. The climate is harsh, resources are scarce, and daily life is filled with both hardship and resilience. In the midst of these challenges, people often share their sorrows, joys, and dreams through songs. Music has long been part of Humla’s cultural fabric, serving as a way to learn, teach, and preserve traditions.
Recognizing the power of this practice, RIDS-Nepal began using songs as a tool in its community development work. Since many villagers are more accustomed to learning through singing than through formal schooling, music creates a natural and effective path to understanding. Together with local communities, RIDS-Nepal has written songs that reflect the struggles, beauty, and hope of life in Humla.
These songs were also featured in our 2000 documentary, Sunshine in Shadows, which portrays daily life in Humla and highlights five years of RIDS-Nepal’s work through pictures, poems, narration, and music.
We are pleased to share 17 original recordings created in partnership with the people of Humla. Each song carries messages tied to our projects and values, allowing listeners to absorb important ideas in a way that feels natural and memorable. You can play each of these 17 songs through the audio player on this page.