As Bhaitika, the final day of Tihar, arrives, sisters across 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 under the ‘Learn and Earn’ programme, has been missing for over a year. Last year, Pushpa crafted a marigold garland, hoping he’d wear it, but Bipin never came home.

“I had kept the garland ready, hoping he’d wear it whenever he came. But it just withered away,” Pushpa said. “I planted many flowers again this year, but there’s still no news.” Studying in Mahendranagar, Pushpa marks Bhaitika alone, missing her brother’s presence.

“Two festivals have passed waiting for him,” she shared. “But now, it’s too much. He needs to be brought back soon.” Her thoughts are filled with memories of Bipin, whose absence has left a deep void. The siblings’ close bond, like that of childhood friends, makes his absence even harder for her to bear.

Bipin was one of 49 students from Far-Western University’s agriculture faculty who travelled to Israel last year. Less than a month after their arrival, a Hamas attack struck Kibbutz Alumim in southern Israel, where they were stationed. The assault claimed the lives of ten Nepali students, and Bipin was reportedly taken captive by Hamas.

The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) later confirmed Bipin was held by Hamas, but his current status remains unknown. His father, Mahananda Joshi, said government officials have assured them of continuous efforts for his safe return, but their wait continues.