Bipin Joshi: The Tragic Story of Nepal’s Brave Student

Bipin Joshi, a 23-year-old Nepali student, tragically lost his life after being held hostage by Hamas for over two years. His death was confirmed when Hamas handed over his body to Israeli authorities on October 13, 2025, as part of a ceasefire arrangement. Joshi was notably the only non-Israeli and the only Hindu believed to be alive in Gaza during the time of his captivity, making his story both heartbreaking and emblematic of the human cost of conflict.

Bipin Joshi, a Nepalese man who was held hostage in Gaza by Hamas for 2 years(Reuters) | Hindustan Times

Early Life and Journey to Israel

Hailing from a remote village in western Nepal, Bipin Joshi aspired to gain international experience and education. In September 2023, he traveled to Israel under an academic program that allowed students from Nepal to work and learn at Israeli farms while studying agriculture. Joshi arrived at Kibbutz Alumim, a farm near the Gaza border, just 25 days before the devastating Hamas assault on southern Israel. He quickly adapted to life on the kibbutz, working diligently among the orange and lemon groves and immersing himself in the local community.

The October 7, 2023 Hamas Attack

On October 7, 2023, Hamas militants launched a large-scale attack on southern Israel, killing more than 1,200 people, most of them civilians, and abducting 251 hostages to Gaza. Joshi was among those captured from Kibbutz Alumim. Reports highlight his bravery during the assault; he helped several classmates take shelter and reportedly threw a live grenade back into a shelter to protect others before being taken hostage. His courage in the face of imminent danger earned him recognition from both Israeli and Nepali communities and marked him as a hero even during captivity.

Captivity and Family Efforts

During his over two-year-long captivity, Joshi’s family never gave up hope. His mother, Padma, and younger sister, Pushpa, actively campaigned for his release, traveling from Nepal to Israel and even engaging with officials in the United States. Diplomatic efforts also involved Nepal’s government, which appealed to countries like Egypt and Qatar to mediate. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli personally reached out to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi in March 2025, seeking assistance in securing the release of Nepalese hostages. Despite these tireless efforts, Joshi remained in Hamas custody until his death.

Confirmation of Death

On October 13, 2025, Hamas handed over the bodies of four hostages, including Bipin Joshi, to Israeli authorities. Israeli military spokesperson Effie Defrin confirmed the transfer and noted that DNA testing would be conducted before repatriating his remains to Nepal. Plans for a funeral were being coordinated between Israel and the Nepali embassy, ensuring that Joshi would be laid to rest with dignity and honor.

Legacy and Heroism

Bipin Joshi’s story is a testament to courage and selflessness. His actions during the October 7 attack, where he prioritized the safety of others over his own, highlight the strength of the human spirit even in the darkest times. Although his life was tragically cut short, Joshi is remembered as a hero who saved lives and stood firm in the face of adversity. His bravery and compassion continue to inspire people in Nepal, Israel, and across the world.

The MGMM Outlook

Bipin Joshi’s tragic story highlights both the unpredictability of life and the extraordinary courage of ordinary individuals. A 23-year-old student from a remote village in western Nepal, Joshi traveled to Israel to gain academic and practical experience in agriculture. His dream turned into a nightmare when he was captured during the Hamas attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023. Despite being in imminent danger, he showed remarkable bravery, helping others find safety and defending his peers. His courage during the attack made him a symbol of selflessness, recognized both in Israel and Nepal.

Joshi’s captivity lasted over two years, during which his family tirelessly sought his release, engaging governments and international channels to negotiate his freedom. Despite these efforts, he passed away in Hamas custody, and his body was returned to Israel on October 13, 2025. His life and actions leave an enduring legacy of heroism and humanity, reminding the world of the profound impact one individual can have even amid conflict and adversity.

(Sources: Hindustan Times, NDTV, Times of India)