The family of Bipin Joshi, a 25-year-old Nepali student, is going through a very painful time. He was kidnapped during a violent attack by Hamas fighters in southern Israel in October 2023. Bipin had gone there to study agriculture under a student exchange program supported by the Nepali government. It was his first time traveling outside of Nepal, and he was full of hope and dreams about building a better life for himself and his family. But now, those dreams are on hold, and his family is desperately hoping for his safe return.
The Day That Changed Everything
Bipin had just started his studies when tragedy struck. On October 7, 2023, in the early hours of the morning, Hamas launched a surprise attack near the Gaza border. Bipin and other Nepali students were staying in an agricultural area called a kibbutz when the attackers arrived. In the middle of this chaos, Bipin did something incredibly brave he picked up a live grenade thrown into the shelter where they were hiding and threw it back out, saving the lives of his fellow students. Sadly, ten of those students were still killed, and six others were injured.
While attackers killed some and others reached safety, they captured Bipin and took him into Gaza.This moment changed his life completely and turned his family’s world upside down.
No News, Only Hope
Since attackers abducted Bipin, security forces saw footage that reportedly showed them taking him away the only sign that he is still alive.. This small piece of information gave the Joshi family a little hope, but they still have no idea about his exact location or condition. Every day, his family wakes up with the same unanswered questions Is he eating? Is he hurt? Will he come home?
His sister Pushpa has become the face of the family’s efforts to find him. Despite being just a teenager, she has spoken with powerful leaders and government officials, urging them to act quickly and firmly. She believes high officials’ decisions determine her brother’s fate,. Hamas gaza war and she refuses to give up until she brings Bipin back home. For the family, hope is the only thing keeping them going.
Government’s Efforts and Diplomatic Hopes
The Nepali government is aware of the situation and has promised to do all it can to bring Bipin back. They are working with other countries, including those that have influence in the Middle East, to open channels for negotiations. In particular, they are trying to use diplomatic ties with countries like Qatar and Egypt to speak with Hamas and ask for Bipin’s release.
Nepali leaders have said they are fully committed to bringing Bipin home safely. But the process has been slow, and the family is growing increasingly anxious. There are legal, political, and logistical difficulties when it comes to negotiating with armed groups, especially in war zones. Yet, the family remains hopeful that Nepal’s friends and allies around the world will help make a breakthrough.
The Only Hostage from Nepal
Bipin belonged to a group of 17 Nepali students studying in Israel. Among them, attackers killed ten, injured six, and left only Bipin missing believed to be the last Nepali hostage still held by Hamas.. This makes his case even more urgent, and the people of Nepal have united in supporting his family’s call for action. Citizens from all walks of life are following the story and urging the government to do more.
The tragedy has raised big questions about the safety of Nepali students and workers abroad. Many people now feel that there should be better security systems and backup plans for those who go overseas through government programs. Bipin’s story is a powerful reminder of the risks that some young people face when they step outside their homeland to chase opportunities.
Life in Limbo for the Joshi Family
For the Joshi family, time seems to have stopped. They cannot focus on work, school, or even everyday life. All they can think about is Bipin. His mother has been ill with stress, and his father spends his days silently waiting for news. The family has kept Bipin’s room the same, hoping he will walk through the door again one day. They still cook his favorite meals on special occasions, and every phone call brings a moment of hope that maybe, just maybe, it’s him.
Pushpa continues to be strong, not only for herself but for her entire family. She writes letters, speaks at public events, and reminds everyone that behind the headlines is a real person a brother, a son, a student—whose life is worth saving. Her bravery is an inspiration to many, and her words carry the pain and strength of a family that refuses to give up.
The Bigger Picture Safety and Accountability
Bipin’s kidnapping is not just a personal tragedy it reflects a larger issue. Many Nepali youths travel abroad seeking better education and work opportunities, but they often encounter dangers not fully understood back home. This case has sparked growing concern about their safety and the risks they face. Calls for better preparation, stronger government support, and more serious efforts to ensure the safety of Nepalis overseas.
The government has pledged to review the process of sending students abroad and to improve safety measures.People are also asking for mental health support for families affected by such crises. Bipin’s story has opened up a national conversation about how Nepal treats its young people and what needs to change to protect them.
