Gopal Rai, State Minister for Forests and Soil Conservation, was a simple man from Okhaldhunga with a great sense of humour.

Down-to-earth and frank, he was admired by local journalists. I remember when we were in Nepalganj and he wanted to see the local bajar.

His security guard radioed for security, but Rai preferred to travel informally by rickshaw instead. He usually travelled alone, but on this trip called his wife from the airport at the last minute and asked her to accompany him.

Mina Rai was a traditional Nepali homemaker. She was meticulous about taking care of her children and home. This was the first time ever that she accompanied her husband on an official trip. The Rais are survived by one son and four daughters.

Jagat Nepal, Kantipur TV