In the village [in northern Nepal] where I grew up, we did not have to study. In those days, daughters were not allowed to go to school. To earn money, I would work as a porter, carrying loads for twelve or thirteen days up to Namche Bazaar [the gateway to the high Himalayas].
When I was about sixteen, I came to Kathmandu. First, I stayed at others' houses by washing dishes for some eight or nine years, and then I got married. My husband was a police officer and is now retired.
During the Maoist conflict, everybody was afraid of everyone. My husband was posted to different parts of Nepal, and his life was often in danger. I missed him very much. What a dreadful situation! Always anxious! No hope for life at all. My older daughter went to school, we are feeling a little tranquility of mind. But I am not confident; there is no guarantee of peace.
Read more of Doma's interview in Speaking Their Peace.