Updated: Special: Feature Story: New York, October 20, 2024 – Indra Bahadur Tamang, celebrated as the first Nepali American photographer, has released a memoir that details his remarkable 30-year life journey alongside Charles Henri Ford, the American poet and collage artist revered as the father of American surrealism.
Their story began in 1972 when Tamang, then just 18, met Ford during his visit to Kathmandu. Ford, who was 64 at the time, saw potential in Tamang, and this chance encounter forever changed Tamang’s life. By the following year, Tamang agreed to be Ford’s companion, assistant, and caretaker, roles that would bring him to New York City and into an entirely new world of art and literature. From 1974 onward, Tamang and Ford traveled widely, with Tamang not only aiding Ford in his creative pursuits but also forming a close bond that lasted until Ford’s passing in 2002.
While media often labeled Tamang as Ford’s butler, his relationship with Ford transcended conventional definitions. Tamang became a trusted family member and creative collaborator, nurturing his own artistic vision under Ford’s influence and guidance. Recognized by Nepalism (formerly USNepalOnline), Tamang became the first Nepali American photographer, a title he holds with immense pride.
When Ford’s sister, actress Ruth Ford, died in 2009, Tamang’s future was initially uncertain. Having lived for decades without a formal salary, his loyalty and support for Ford’s family were his greatest compensation. However, an unexpected call from the Ford family’s attorney revealed that both Ruth and Charles had willed their estate to Tamang, including an extensive art collection and rights to published works. This inheritance not only secured his financial future but also solidified his place in the American artistic community Ford had introduced him to.
Mr. Tamang’s memoir stands as both an homage to Ford’s legacy and a testament to his own remarkable path—from a young Nepali boy to an collage artist, photographer and cultural pioneer in the United States. Through this memoir, Indra hopes to answer skeptics who may have questioned the depth of his connection to Ford, offering readers an intimate view into a life filled with unwavering friendship, loyalty, resilience, his journey from Nepal to the United States and beyond.
Indra Tamang’s Autobiography Sells Out at New York Book Release Event
The release of Indra Tamang’s long-awaited autobiography “My Curious Years with Charles Henri Ford” was met with overwhelming enthusiasm, selling out at its New York debut event. Tamang, now 70, attracted a crowd of about 100 attendees, despite initially anticipating a modest gathering of family and close friends. The event turned into a historic and emotional moment as attendees lined up for his autograph and celebrated his remarkable journey.
Reflecting on his deep friendship with Charles Ford, whom he met in Kathmandu in 1972 when Ford was 64, Tamang shared the motivations behind his decades-long loyalty to Ford and his sister, Ruth. When asked what inspired him to dedicate half his life to the Fords without receiving a formal salary, Tamang responded: “I was a young man pursuing a better life for myself and my family. When I joined Charles in his pursuit of happiness and artistic creativity, I realized what an incredible human being he was. He introduced me to the world of Western art and literature. By the time I was mature enough to pursue my own path, I was so attached to the Ford family, especially Charles, that I couldn’t imagine abandoning him in his advanced age. He became like a father figure to me. I am beyond grateful for the lifelong friendship we developed over the years.”
The sold-out event served as a testament to Tamang’s inspiring story, his steadfast loyalty, and the unique bond he shared with the Fords, capturing the admiration of attendees and marking a significant milestone in his life.
Indra Tamang’s Autobiography Unveiled in New York by Distinguished Guests
The New York book release of My Curious Years with Charles Henri Ford: The Autobiography of Indra Tamang was celebrated with a remarkable turnout and high anticipation as the event unfolded. The memoir was officially unveiled by author Indra Tamang himself, with support from Nepali Consul Bishnu Kumari Adhikari, Rimpochhe Sangpo Lama Dawa, and Tamang Society of America president Buddhiman Tamang. The gathering highlighted Tamang’s extraordinary journey and the decades-long friendship with Charles Henri Ford that defined much of his life.
The event featured tributes from notable figures including writer, photographer, and art curator Allen Frame, former Tamang Society of America president and photographer Ram Tamang, and literary critic Sasang Lama, who provided insights into the close yet complex bond between Tamang and Ford. Indra’s daughter, Zina Tamang, opened the event with an address honoring her father’s legacy and contributions.
Sasang Lama, a literature critic with a master’s degree in international literature from Russia, spoke deeply on the sacrifices that defined Indra’s journey, stating, “Initially just a domestic worker, Indra grew to become Ford’s assistant and ultimately a creative collaborator. Indra worked without a set salary, often earning money through art projects during financially difficult times. Some may view Indra’s connection to the Ford family as opportunistic, but his sacrifices and dedication were profound. Ruth Ford, who ultimately made him her heir, valued their relationship over familial ties—a testament to the loyalty Indra showed.”
Photographer Ram Tamang reflected on the 35 years Indra spent with the Ford family, describing the enduring bond between Indra and Charles. “Charles was like Indra’s eyes, introducing him to the world, teaching him to read and write, and guiding him through the art world,” he said. “They traveled the globe together, and Charles eventually became a father figure to Indra, with Ruth Ford later embracing him as a brother.”
Author Indra Tamang shared his reflections on his 50-year journey since his chance encounter with Charles Ford in Kathmandu in 1972. “When I first arrived in America in 1974, I was a young man in pursuit of a better future. The friendship with Charles took me around the world and into experiences I could have never imagined. My life changed forever, and I’m grateful to everyone who has contributed to bringing my story to life in this book.” He expressed special thanks to writer Romy Yeshbee and Turtle Point Press for their support in publishing his memoir.
Zina Tamang, Indra’s daughter, captured the pride and gratitude of her family in her heartfelt introduction: “My father’s journey is beyond what most of us could ever imagine. His strength and dedication have made everything we have possible. His story is one of humility, resilience, and loyalty, and we are so proud of him.”
The release of My Curious Years with Charles Henri Ford not only brought together friends, family, and admirers but also highlighted an exceptional life journey marked by loyalty, friendship, and artistic exploration. Our own Nepali son, Indra Tamang’s story continues to inspire and resonate, leaving a lasting legacy.
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