On the occasion of Valentine’s Day, a special musical performance by popular pop singer Sugam Pokharel and Kamal Khatri is set to take place in Pokhara.

The concert, titled “Mero Euta Saathi Chha”, will be held on Falgun 2 (February 14) at Levels Club, located in Lakeside, Pokhara, according to the organizers.

The event is being jointly organized by Main Media and ST Creation, as announced during a press conference held on Friday. According to the organizers, Sugam Pokharel will perform his popular love songs along with the Bajagaja Band, immersing the audience in a romantic musical atmosphere. Main Media Managing Director Sundar Basyal stated that, along with food, shelter, and clothing, love is an equally essential element in life, expressing his belief that music emotionally connects people. He added that the program aims to bring audiences of all age groups together and spread messages of friendship, love, and unity.

ST Creation Managing Director Suraj Thapa described Sugam Pokharel as an established brand in Nepali pop music, saying that his songs will especially enthrall young people on Valentine’s Day. He also informed that singer Kamal Khatri, along with a few other popular artists, will perform at the event, with additional special artists also expected to participate.

Sugam Pokharel, who has made a significant contribution to establishing Nepali pop music in the mainstream, is expected to energize the atmosphere with timeless songs such as “Mero Sansar” and “Feri Tyo Din Samjhana Chahanna.” Singer Binod Baniya, who attended the press conference, said that such musical activities enhance the cultural vibrancy of the city. Although his musical group will not be able to participate due to technical reasons, he expressed confidence that the event will be successful.

According to the organizers, as election-related activities are currently underway, the program will be held inside the club. Amit Roka, operator of Levels Club, stated that around 700 spectators will be able to attend the event in person, and that security arrangements have been strengthened.

Valentine Day in the World

Valentine’s Day (February 14th) is celebrated in a remarkable number of cities around the world, but the way it’s celebrated varies greatly by culture. Here’s a breakdown of cities and regions famous for their distinct Valentine’s Day traditions:

Cities Known for Grand, Romantic Celebrations

These cities are famous for their atmosphere, marketing, and large-scale events on Valentine’s Day.

• Paris, France: Often called the “City of Love,” it’s a top destination. Locks on the Pont des Arts (though now discouraged), romantic dinners, and special offers at hotels and restaurants are ubiquitous.

• Venice, Italy: Offers an incredibly romantic setting with gondola rides, candlelit dinners, and the charm of its canals.

• New York City, USA: Features iconic romantic settings (Central Park, Empire State Building), lavish marriage proposals, and high-end dining experiences.

• Tokyo, Japan: Has a unique twist where women give gifts (often chocolate) to men on Feb 14th, and men reciprocate on White Day (March 14th). The city is filled with themed desserts, decorations, and events.

• London, UK: Romantic dinners, weekend getaways, and iconic spots like the London Eye or luxury hotels become focal points for celebrations.

Cities with Unique Cultural Traditions

• Quebec City, Canada: Many couples attend the “Matrimonial Mass” or “Mass of the Future Spouses” at the historic Église Notre-Dame-de-Jacques-Cartier, a charming old tradition.

• Cebu City, Philippines: Holds one of Asia’s largest mass wedding events on Valentine’s Day, with hundreds of couples getting married or renewing vows in public ceremonies sponsored by the local government.

• Johannesburg & Cape Town, South Africa: Valentine’s Day is popular and commercialized, often celebrated with braais (barbecues), gifts, and romantic outings, reflecting the country’s “Love Month” initiatives.

• Seoul, South Korea: Like Japan, has a series of “love days” culminating on Valentine’s Day and White Day. It’s a major commercial event with couples dressing in matching outfits and exchanging gifts.

• Buenos Aires, Argentina: Celebrated, but the major romantic holiday is actually “Día de los Enamorados” in July (winter), with sweet traditions like giving bon o bons (chocolates).

Cities/Regions Where It’s a Day of Friendship or Family

• Finland and Estonia: Celebrate “Ystävänpäivä” and “Sõbrapäev” (Friend’s Day). It’s more about celebrating all loved ones—friends, family, and partners—with cards and gifts.

• Mexico City, Mexico: While romantic for couples, it’s also called “Día del Amor y la Amistad” (Day of Love and Friendship), and friends often exchange small gifts and tokens of appreciation.

• Colombia: Does not celebrate romantic love in February. Instead, “Día del Amor y la Amistad” is celebrated on the third Saturday of September, with a tradition akin to “Secret Santa” called “Amigo Secreto.”

Cities/Regions Where It’s Controversial or Discouraged

• Riyadh, Saudi Arabia & Certain Cities in Indonesia (e.g., Bandung): The celebration is often banned or heavily discouraged by religious authorities who view it as a non-sanctioned Western cultural import that conflicts with local values. Sale of Valentine’s items can be prohibited.

• Mumbai, India & Lahore, Pakistan: The day is popular among urban, secular youth. However, it often faces opposition from conservative religious and political groups who organize protests or rallies against it, calling for a focus on traditional culture instead.